Libec HS Series – 75mm Bowl Fluid Tripod Head for Mirrorless

by Francesco AndreolaMay 1^st, 2022

Camera support manufacturer Libec has recently introduced a new line of fluid tripod heads, the HS series. It consists of 4 different models with a maximum payload ranging from 3 up to 12kg. It includes the HS-150 which seems particularly handy for use with DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Let’s take a look

While many tripod manufacturers focus on producing camera supports for heavier and heavier setups, Japanese company Libec has decided to position at the other end of the spectrum, thus developing the HS Series.

Among these new products, the entry-level HS-150 stands out due to its mirrorless-oriented approach. Indeed, according to the company, it’s the only tripod head that can fully balance even the lightest cameras in the world. At NAB 2022, we interviewed Koichi Yamaguchi from Libec to learn more. Let’s see what we found out.

Libec HS Bowl Fluid Tripod Head Series: overview

The new Libec HS tripod head series consists of 4 products: HS-150, HS-250, HS-350, and HS-450. All these models share the same 75mm bowl head design. This measure was chosen to keep weight and size to a minimum.

The four versions feature different maximum payloads. Indeed, while the HS-150 is suitable for DSLR and mirrorless cameras up to 3kg, the HS-250, HS-350, and HS-450 can support up to 5, 8, and 12kg respectively.

The HS-150 is particularly interesting. Indeed, its continuous counterbalance system, which it shares with its siblings, is capable of achieving a good balance even with extremely light camera setups. As Koichi Yamaguchi demonstrates, the camera’s tilt angle does not change when letting go of the handle.

All heads feature 4-step pan and tilt friction settings as well as a universal Manfrotto-style quick release plate. Moreover, Libec also focused on usability. Indeed, an illuminated bubble and meter allow to easily check the camera’s level and counterbalance spring strength. Finally, two 1/4”-20 and 3/8”-16 treaded holes at the base of the head can host accessories without compromising the balance of the whole system.

Price and availability

Although these four new tripod heads are surely appealing for some users, there’s currently no official information about their price. According to Koichi Yamaguchi, the mirrorless-oriented HS-150 will be a “high-end product” in its class. We will probably find out soon, since the HS series should reach the shelves in a few months.

What tripod do you normally use with your DSLR/mirrorless camera? What do you think of the new Libec HS-150? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section down below!