Manfrotto Debuts New Products that Deliver Greater Versatility, Ease of Use at NAB 2012

LAS VEGAS, April 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Manfrotto Distribution, world leader in the equipment and accessories industry for photography and imaging, debuted five new product offerings at the National Association of Broadcasters show in Las Vegas today – including the introduction of the SYMPLA Video and HDLSR Modular Rigs, the first follow-focus remote controls for Canon HDSLRs, two new tripod systems, and new Kata video backpacks, rain covers and shoulder bags.  These offerings align to Manfrotto's commitment to delivering versatile, easy to use solutions for the photographic, video, cine and lighting production markets.

"We are excited to debut a strong, impressive product lineup at the 2012 National Association of Broadcasters," said Wayne Schulman, Sales & Product Manager, Video. "Our new camera and lighting accessories this year meet the varied needs of industry professionals and are simple to use.  They incorporate unique design and technology enhancements while maintaining Manfrotto's long-standing reputation of best-in-class innovation."

Introduction of the SYMPLA Video and HDSLR Modular Rigs

Manfrotto announced the launch of SYMPLA, a new family of modular rigs for HDSLRs, and camcorders. Aimed at making the videographer's life simpler, the SYMPLA line bridges the gap between off-the-shelf, ready-to-use convenience and custom modularity.

SYMPLA supports can be assembled, configured and adjusted to a wide range of situations in seconds – all without tools. Every product in the line is made of steel and aluminum to withstand the rigors of professional use.  The number of components in the SYMPLA family gives users maximum flexibility and adjustment control with minimum hassle. Like everything Manfrotto makes for professional users, SYMPLA is fully compatible with other Manfrotto photo and video support products.

World's First Electronic Follow-Focus Remote Controls for Canon HDSLR's

Manfrotto debuted the world's first true electronic follow-focus remote controls for Canon HDSLRs. Aimed at making the videographer's life simpler, they enable users to follow focus and conduct other functions on a HDSLR without touching the camera. 

A brand new range of Manfrotto remote controls for Canon HDSLRs promises a true innovation in the field of HDSLR filming – true electronic follow-focus that works by interfacing with camera and lens firmware.  Manfrotto's remote controls are Canon HDSLR compatible and designed for interconnectivity with Manfrotto's SYMPLA alternative supports. Manfrotto launched two distinct models of HDSLR remote controls at NAB 2012: Clamp version and Pro version.

New Tripod Systems

Manfrotto announced the new MVK502AM Tripod System, which offers the first ever telescoping tandem – or twin tubes.  It also incorporates the new MVH502A fluid head and the new MVT502AM tripod.  The MVH502A head is specifically designed to provide versatile support for the latest camcorders and HDSLR cameras, and can support up to 13.2 pounds of equipment. The 502 head Counterbalance System (CBS) ensures that head rotations are always fast and easy, allowing for more control no matter how the camera's weight is distributed.  Street price of the system is $450. 

Manfrotto also debuted the new 701HDV, MVT502AM Tripod System with Carrying Bag, which is a lightweight tripod system kit for camcorders or DSLRs up to 8.8 pounds.  This system combines the 701HDV Pro Fluid Head with the brand new MVT502AM tripod.  The system is perfect for back packers and air travel as it folds down smaller than any Manfrotto pro video system to date, yet does not compromise performance.   Street price of the system is $350. 

New Kata Video Backpacks, Rain Covers and Shoulder Bags

Manfrotto highlighted a lineup of new Kata video backpacks, rain covers and shoulder bags, including two new Pro-Light Pro-V backpacks, seven Pro-Light video camera rain covers, and five Pro-Light CC video bags.

New Pro-Light Pro-V backpacks accommodate a broad range of HDV camcorders, large HDSLR rig configurations or a DLSR with an attached lens of up to 300mm.  Offerings include:

• Pro-V 410 Backpack (KT PL-PV-410) - street price $299.99
• Pro-V 610 Backpack (KT PL-PV-610 - street price $349.99

Kata's award-winning line of video rain covers has been updated as part of the Pro-Light product line. Fabricated completely from waterproof materials, covers feature a crystal clear TPU panel that allows controlled monitoring and viewing of the LCD screen at any angle.  Offerings include:

• RC-1 Rain Cover (KT PL-VA-801-1) - street price $179.99.
• RC-10 Rain Cover (KT PL-VA-801-10) - street price $139.99.
• CRC-12 Compact Rain Cover (KT PL-VA-801-12) - street price $99.99
• CRC-13 Compact Rain Cover (KT PL-VA-801-13) - street price $89.99
• CRC-14 Compact Rain Cover (KT PL-VA-801-14) - street price $99.99
• CRC-15 Compact Rain Cover (KT PL-VA-801-15) - street price $109.99
• CRC-17 Compact Rain Cover (KT PL-VA-801-17) - street price $39.99

Kata's best selling line of video shoulder bags are now updated as part of the Pro-Light collection.  Setting the industry standard for carrying video cameras, these bags have been updated as part of the Pro-Light line of lightweight protective Kata products and come in black Rip-Stop nylon with fiery red accents.  Pro-Light CC video bags are available in five sizes – offerings include:

• CC-191 Video Bag (Model # KT PL-CC-191) – street price $109.99
• CC-192 Video Bag (Model # KT PL-CC-192) – street price $129.99
• CC-193 Video Bag (Model # KT PL-CC-193) – street price $159.99
• CC-195 Video Bag (Model # KT PL-CC-195) – street price $199.99
• CC-197 Video Bag (Model # KT PL-CC-197) – street price $249.99

For more information, visit www.manfrotto.us.

Manfrotto.  Imagine More.

About Manfrotto Distribution

Manfrotto Distribution, Inc. is a leading distributor of key accessories brands for the photographic, video, cine and lighting production markets. Manfrotto Distribution is an international company within the Imaging Division of the Vitec Group, which owns the following leading international brands: Manfrotto, Gitzo, Kata, Avenger and Lastolite. As the U.S. distributor of National Geographic, Metz, Gossen, Elinchrom, Genus and Rotatrim, which are available nationwide through an extensive network of authorized dealers, Manfrotto Distribution offers the most complete range of exceptional camera and lighting accessories in the business. The Manfrotto Distribution international network covers the U.S., Germany, France, Italy, U.K., Hong Kong, China and Japan. www.manfrottodistribution.us

Media Contact:

Manfrotto Press Office – MSL New York
Richard Mitchell
646.500.7773
[email protected]

SOURCE Manfrotto Distribution, Inc.