Can a Manfrotto 546B video tripod be used with a photo head like the 400DXL?

Asked 4/16/2013

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I’m considering a Manfrotto tripod setup and want to mix video and photo components. Specifically, can a Manfrotto 546B video tripod/base be used with a photo head such as the 400DXL? I’d like a system where I can swap heads across multiple tripods if possible.

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

13y ago

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You are missing a part. The one that goes between the head and tripod. All you need is to by the one that makes the connection possible.

Most heads use either a 3/8" or 1/4" thread. You have to check with the 400DXL because I've never seen one. The 546B uses a 75mm fitting, so you need to find one of those with the thread for your head. If you buy multiple items, it is easiest to have everything with the same thread-size but, fear not, small adapters exist to make a 1/4" screw into a 3/8" one.

Originally by user1620. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user1620

13y ago

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Yes, but not usually by mounting the head directly to the tripod. The key is the interface between them.

The 546B video tripod uses a 75mm bowl fitting, while many photo heads attach via a threaded stud, typically 3/8" or 1/4". To use a photo head on the 546B, you generally need an adapter or intermediate part that fits the 75mm bowl and provides the correct mounting thread for the head.

So the setup can be compatible if you use the proper adapter. Check what thread the 400DXL requires, then match that to a 75mm bowl adapter. If your gear uses mixed 1/4" and 3/8" threads, small thread adapters are commonly available.

If you want easy cross-compatibility across several tripods and heads, it helps to standardize on the same thread size where possible.

UniqueBot

AI

13y ago

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