Author Topic: Super Clamps (Read 5638 times)

Brian E. · « **on:** February 21, 2011, 12:17:37 PM »

Anyone have an opinion on the older Manfrotto:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546356-REG/Manfrotto_035RL_035RL_Super_Clamp_with.html

vs. the newer "quick action" version:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/252211-REG/Manfrotto_635_635_Quick_Action_Super.html

I don't really know the difference.

hi and lo · « **Reply #1 on:** February 21, 2011, 12:56:29 PM »

If you don't need to support an extreme amount of weight, I'd recommend and ultra clamp over a super clamp all day long.

http://www.posthorn.com/Ats_1.html

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/239972-REG/Ultrapod_PD05020_Ultra_Clamp_Assembly.html

I have the older manfrotto and can tell you I never use it because I have the ultra clamp.

Brian Skalinder · « **Reply #2 on:** February 21, 2011, 01:11:36 PM »

I've never used the newer SuperClamp model. But I don't have any complaints about my old one. I don't find myself really missing the quick release. It's not like it takes a really long time to open or close the clamp's jaws. If it had much wider jaws, then I can see myself wishing I had the quick release. But as it is, I don't find myself missing it.

The UltraClamp is good for clamping mics to a stand -- very flexible -- but not so much for a long extension bar + multiple sets of mics.

twatts (pants are so over-rated...) · « **Reply #3 on:** February 21, 2011, 01:13:05 PM »

The Manfrotto Superclamp (either one) only allows you to clamp onto a horizontal surface. You'll need an extension arm to run vertical: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546442-REG/Manfrotto_203_203_Extension_Arm_for.html

The 203 mini-extnesion arm will fit the Super-Clamp and rotates a full 360^ so you can mount your mics at any angle. The regular extnesion arm 042 extension arm has a "hex" that inserts into the superclamp and only allows you 0-60-120 mounting of your mics. Trust me, get the 203... I got a 042 by mistake for my superclamp and had to get a 203 to replace it...

That being said, you don't need anything this "solid" unless you're running ADK TLs or something large like that...

Terry

Brian E. · « **Reply #4 on:** February 21, 2011, 01:36:46 PM »

good call, pants.

Brian, I'm at work and can't look - what kind of arms did you loan me? are those the best for the job, or should I look into something else if I'm buying now?

rastasean · « **Reply #5 on:** February 21, 2011, 01:50:30 PM »

I only prefer the senior model and I don't understand what makes the new one quick release. I can easily use one finger to push the arm around to open it up whereas the quick release would take a thumb and fingers as well as twisting your wrist.

Brian Skalinder · « **Reply #6 on:** February 21, 2011, 01:58:18 PM »

Brian -- you have 2 out of 3 poles from On-Stage set MSA9500. I only use the Posi-Lok occasionally, but the poles come in quite handy.

There's a telescoping Bogen extension arm that's pretty popular, but I don't know the model number. (Due to specific requirements, I ended up having a custom one built by APIC.) The telescoping extension is probably easier to deal with than the On-Stage screw-in type.

flipp · « **Reply #7 on:** February 21, 2011, 02:31:28 PM »

Rather than either of the Bogen/Manfrotto superclamps, I recommend the Smith-Victor version. It doesn't have the smaller T style handle but the lever handle has indexing capability which if you ever need that extra half-turn in a tight spot you can get it with this clamp whereas you can't with the B/M or other brand knockoffs.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/241615-REG/Smith_Victor_701980_Pipe_Clamp_with_5_8.html

twatts (pants are so over-rated...) · « **Reply #8 on:** February 21, 2011, 02:33:49 PM »

The internet is wonderful...

Brian E. · « **Reply #9 on:** February 21, 2011, 02:47:30 PM »

Quote from: twatts and not wearing pants on February 21, 2011, 02:33:49 PM

The internet is wonderful...

LOL

rastasean · « **Reply #10 on:** February 21, 2011, 03:34:36 PM »

Quote from: flipp on February 21, 2011, 02:31:28 PM

Rather than either of the Bogen/Manfrotto superclamps, I recommend the Smith-Victor version. It doesn't have the smaller T style handle but the lever handle has indexing capability which if you ever need that extra half-turn in a tight spot you can get it with this clamp whereas you can't with the B/M or other brand knockoffs.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/241615-REG/Smith_Victor_701980_Pipe_Clamp_with_5_8.html

Does it also come with the wedge which would allow you to clamp to flat surfaces?

tim in jersey · « **Reply #11 on:** February 21, 2011, 03:36:26 PM »

Quote from: flipp on February 21, 2011, 02:31:28 PM

Rather than either of the Bogen/Manfrotto superclamps, I recommend the Smith-Victor version. It doesn't have the smaller T style handle but the lever handle has indexing capability which if you ever need that extra half-turn in a tight spot you can get it with this clamp whereas you can't with the B/M or other brand knockoffs.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/241615-REG/Smith_Victor_701980_Pipe_Clamp_with_5_8.html

I ordered the Smith-Victor from B&H within the past week or 2 and they no longer have the indexing handle. They now use a handle similar to this:

Edit to add:

I also ordered this clamp, which does have an indexing/ratchet handle: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/690391-REG/Photek_SB_84GCS_Grip_Clamp_with_Stud.html

flipp · « **Reply #12 on:** February 21, 2011, 03:49:27 PM »

I don't know as mine was used and came in a box of miscellaneous items. The wedges for the Manfrottos work in the Smith-Victor. According to tim in jersey's post above, the S-V no longer has an indexing handle but he lists a Photek that has both an indexing handle and comes with a wedge.

Quote from: rastasean on February 21, 2011, 03:34:36 PM

Quote from: flipp on February 21, 2011, 02:31:28 PM
Rather than either of the Bogen/Manfrotto superclamps, I recommend the Smith-Victor version. It doesn't have the smaller T style handle but the lever handle has indexing capability which if you ever need that extra half-turn in a tight spot you can get it with this clamp whereas you can't with the B/M or other brand knockoffs.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/241615-REG/Smith_Victor_701980_Pipe_Clamp_with_5_8.html

Does it also come with the wedge which would allow you to clamp to flat surfaces?

F.O.Bean · « **Reply #13 on:** February 21, 2011, 11:09:01 PM »

A good rowi clamp is all I have EVER needed, and Ive been recording for almost 15 years

There are a few on ebay right now too.......

page · « **Reply #14 on:** February 22, 2011, 12:00:19 AM »

screw handle >= quick action

I played with both once and the quick action one wigged me out because you get X clamping action and that's it. If I want to screw the fucker down for peace of mind or necessity, the old-style will do it until the pipe breaks or the clamp breaks, where as the quick action won't torque more than it's setup for. I use a superclamp when I have weight or I'm using one of my adjustable arms (which precludes that I have some weight).

Quote from: rastasean on February 21, 2011, 01:50:30 PM

I only prefer the senior model and I don't understand what makes the new one quick release. I can easily use one finger to push the arm around to open it up whereas the quick release would take a thumb and fingers as well as twisting your wrist.

Because it will go from clamped to full off in a half or full turn (I swear it's a half turn), the index one takes like 10-12 cranks or something like that.

tim in jersey · « **Reply #15 on:** February 22, 2011, 02:31:56 AM »

I prefer the indexed/ratchet lever handle over the t-handle because:

I can get an extra 1/2 or whole turn or maybe 2 or even 3 in tight clamping situations

The lever is longer than the t-handle, providing a mechanical advantage; I can crank that sucker down *tight*. four fingers and an opposing digit yields much more torque-power than a thumb and the index and middle finger can.

I can swing the arm out of the way once properly clamped. I've had issues in the past where the position of the lever snagged coats/purses and/or stuck out in walkways causing a trip hazard.

In reserved seating situations with an extension pole clamped to an arm rest I've been shut down because the patron next to me bitched about the handle poking them in the ribs (and rightfully so). With the indexed handle, I can swing the handle parallel to the arm rest or at least where it pokes my thigh or ribcage not theirs.

Brian E. · « **Reply #16 on:** February 23, 2011, 12:25:15 PM »

thanks for all the tips

anyone have a favorite telescoping arm? I'd only be using CA-14's on a t-bar, so I wouldn't need too much strength.

Brian E. · « **Reply #17 on:** February 24, 2011, 11:17:37 AM »

need a suggestion for a telescoping arm for the super clamp, so I can get this ordered! Thanks

acidjack · « **Reply #18 on:** February 24, 2011, 11:37:03 AM »

Manfrotto 099B is the gold standard. Mine never fails.

twatts (pants are so over-rated...) · « **Reply #19 on:** February 24, 2011, 11:40:47 AM »

Quote from: Brian Emerick on February 24, 2011, 11:17:37 AM

need a suggestion for a telescoping arm for the super clamp, so I can get this ordered! Thanks

I think it will depend on what you want to do: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/Mic-Stands-Boom-Arms/ci/14715/N/4290441648

flipp · « **Reply #20 on:** February 24, 2011, 11:44:21 AM »

How much reach do you need?
Are you seeking an articulated arm or just an extension?
If the latter, check the following thread you marked for a couple of suggestions, http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=110425.0;all
If the former follow the link in naked twatts post or search B&H for acidjack's suggestion or search B&H for "articulated arm".

Brian E. · « **Reply #21 on:** February 24, 2011, 11:53:32 AM »

Looking for something that will go maybe 5 feet tops, and doesn't need to hold more than 10lb tops, maybe less.

ArchivalAudio · « **Reply #22 on:** February 25, 2011, 02:35:47 AM »

maybe too late for the super clamp but there is an "Impact" clamp at B&H for $20
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=WishList.jsp&A=details&Q=&sku=371927&is=REG

also a Matthews Telescopic Baby Stand Extension - 18 - 54"
$28.50

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=WishList.jsp&A=details&Q=&sku=33185&is=REG

Brian E. · « **Reply #23 on:** February 25, 2011, 09:10:41 AM »

thanks - i ordered a Manfrotto with the indexing handle, and that Matthews arm you posted.