This modular system can be quickly transformed between different configurations depending on the specific needs of a shoot. Choosing the carbon fiber version means you always have the ideal base model for both indoor and outdoor shooting, to which you can add a range of interchangeable center columns for normal use, heavy cameras or video work.
The GT5531S Tripod is recommended for medium, large format or DSLRs with 400 mm and longer lenses. Exceptionally rigid and resistant to torsion, but, thanks to the new Carbon 6X ALR tube, surprisingly light and fast to operate.
Features:
ALR- Anti Leg Rotation system, which means the tripod can be opened in less than 15 seconds. Simply loosen all the twist locks on each leg at the same time, then pull the leg down and tighten the locks individually.
DOUBLE QUICK RELEASE SAFETY SYSTEM - The system consists of two pins, one fixed and one manually operated by means of a button, that prevent camera equipment from suddenly dropping out of the head when the quick release locking knob is released. Extremely useful with heavy equipment, long lenses and spotting scopes.
SEPARATE FRICTION CONTROL - By fine tuning the freedom of movement of the head, friction control makes the head slower and more precise or faster and looser. This feature also helps to make using heavy equipment or long lenses safer. On ball and fluid head models without separate friction controls, slowly adjusting the lock knobs gives similar results.
G-LOCK- G-Lock is the Gitzo leg locking system. The locking mechanism has been completely redesigned in order to achieve a 20% increase in rigidity, faster operation and stronger, safer locking. G-Lock’s special design also provides a “gravity lock” effect: the higher the load applied vertically to the leg, the stronger the lock.
GROUND LEVEL SET- This feature allows you to remove the center column to save weight and get the camera closer to the ground. Uses existing components: the upper disc with reversible 1/4 - 3/8 bolt and the column hook assembly: Remove column and fix the disk directly to the upper casting using the column hook. No tools needed.
HOOK- This built-in accessory allows you to hang a stabilizing weight (e.g. a full camera bag or a sand/water bag) fromthe bottom of the tripod center column. Useful with longheavy lenses, on uneven ground or in windy conditions.
LEVELING BUBBLE- This leveling system is made of three independent leveling bubbles on the quick release plate and one in the ball stem, always guarantee perfectly leveled images. The problem that affects many high quality heads in the market regarding drift angle is absolutely minimized with an outstanding value of 0,03°.
RAPID COLUMN- The center column locking collar above the tripod shoulder makes it easier to adjust the column quickly. Series 1 and above are built with an anti-rotation grooved center column for improved stability.
REVERSIBLE COLUMN- The rapid column can easily be inverted for an alternative shooting angle or low level macro work.
REVERSIBLE HANDLES- Handles can removed and repositioned or rotated in different positions. This feature greatly increases a head’s versatility and is particularly appreciated by left handed users.
SAFE GRIP- Safe Grip is a material that gives a safer lock between your camera and the head plate, preventing the camera from moving or slipping. It is used on quick release plates and in applications where the camera equipment is screwed to the support to reduce pivoting and twisting.
SAFE LOCK- Safe Lock is a special techno polymer that maximises locking torque and equipment stabilisation. It is used on the upper discs of tripods and heads, and in applications where the equipment is rotated and screwed onto the support to eliminate micro movements and vibration.
SEPARATE PAN CONTROL- When using a ball head, the ability to lock and unlock the panoramic movement independent of front-back or lateral tilt movements is convenient for panoramic photography and when a high level of control is required.
FRICTION CONTROL- By fine tuning the freedom of movement of the head, friction control makes the head slower and more precise or faster and looser. This feature also helps to make using heavy equipment or long lenses safer. On ball and fluid head models without separate friction controls, slowly adjusting the lock knobs gives similar results.
FLUID CARTRIDGE - A fluid cartridge consists in a system made with two parts that slide one on the other. Inside the system is included a special fluid that controls the movement and makes it extremely soft, “fluid” and smooth. The cartridge’s inner design is very important and if well designed allows maximum movement control yet minimizes cartridge weight and size. Gitzo uses a special fluid that guarantees a consistent performance over a wide range of temperatures.
BALANCING SYSTEM- In 1966 Gitzo introduced the balancing system. This system allows you to keep your equipment balanced when mounted on the head even when this is not locked. The system is very useful for long lenses, video and bird watching, especially when some degree of action and accurate tracking is needed.
POWER DISC- The tripod upper disc is called “Power Disc”. It is made of machined solid aluminum and it now features two locking screws, one to lock the head, the other to safely lock the disc onto the column. The “Power Disc” gives a rock solid connection of the whole system for additional safety and stability.
LEG ANGLES- Gitzo tripods feature a variety of leg openings. From one spread of series 0 to infinite angles of Explorer tripods. New series 1, 2 ,3 and Leveling tripods now feature an upgraded upper casting with an additional third leg spread. The three leg spreads allows you to set the tripods at three different levels (high, medium, low). The new low position allows you to take full advantage of the “Ground Level Set”.
BUBBLE BALL- Gitzo has now developed technology that enables them to produce high quality, completely round hollow spheres, with a ultra thin wall, for an incredible weight reduction. Gitzo Bubble Ball also features a perfected PTFE treatment that further reduces the surface micro roughness for the ultimate shooting experience and accuracy.
HYDRAULIC LOCK- Gitzo’s Hydraulic Locking System is a completely new concept and for the first time is inserted inside the sphere. The system is very powerful and it can generate a pressure up to 350 PSI. This system allows for a fast and powerful locking, combined in a compact and lightweight structure.
SPRING LOCK- The center SADL (Spring Assisted Double Lock) is a patent pending system that combines two locking systems in one, that maximizes both locking power and ball smoothness. A high friction metal guarantees a high efficiency lock, the PTFE bushing controlled by a pre loaded spring maximizes smoothness and control.
