Manfrotto Releases New Fluid Video Heads – Nitrotech 608 and 612

by Jakub HanApril 9^th, 2019

Manfrotto is releasing two new fluid video heads at NAB 2019. Manfrotto Nitrotech 608 and 612 should be the first two models of the Nitrotech 600 series with new fluid technology. Supporting payloads of up to 12kg (26.4lbs) the heads will come to the US market in July 2019.

Manfrotto’s Nitrotech technology with the nitrogen piston mechanism is not entirely new. Since 2017, Manfrotto already has two Nitrotech fluid heads in the market – the Nitrotech N8 and the N12. At this year’s NAB, the company is introducing new reincarnation of this technology and they are showcasing two new fluid heads – Nitrotech 608 and Nitrotech 612.

Manfrotto Nitrotech 608 and 612

Nitrotech 608 Fluid Head. Source: Manfrotto

The idea behind nitrogen piston technology is to provide continuous counterbalance to both lightweight and heavier setups despite the tilt degrees. According to Manfrotto, the fluid technology in these two new fluid heads is brand new.

As the product names already imply, the Nitrotech 608 can support loads between 0kg and 8kg (0lbs – 17.6lbs) and the Nitrotech 612 from 4kg to 12kg (8.8lbs – 26.4lbs). Thanks to the nitrotech technology, the head should provide the ideal counterbalance for any load within these values.

Nitrotech 612 Fluid Head offers secure 3/8″ mounting point. Source: Manfrotto

There is now a redesigned ergonomic CBS (counter balance system) knob to set the ideal counterbalance strength for the used payload. The variable continuous fluidity function on both pan and tilt allows smooth, judder-free movement. Both fluid drag system knobs feature new rubber cover for enhanced grip.

Nitrotech 612 Fluid Head support load up to 12kg. Source: Manfrotto

The new Nitrotech head also has a 3/8” mounting thread on the side equipped with an anti-rotation system both to accommodate Manfrotto arms equipped with an anti-rotation system or arms equipped with ARRI locating pins. This provides enhanced security when mounting accessories like external monitors.

Both new video heads feature a side-lock sliding plate mechanism for quick and secure camera attachment. They have a flat base mount with standard 3/8” thread for different support combinations (tripod, slider, jib or crane). Optional half ball adapters in various sizes are also available.

Nitrotech 608 Fluid Head with the half ball adapter. Source: Manfrotto

Both Nitrotech 600 series fluid heads are available for pre-order now. On the US market, they should start shipping in July. Price is $450 USD for the Nitrotech 608 and $630 USD for the bigger Nitrotech 612. There are also various sets with Manfrotto tripods available.

What do you think of the new Manfrotto Nitrotech fluid heads? If you worked with the previous Nitrotech heads, how did you like it? Let us know in the comments underneath the article.