Matthews has announced the first new tripod spreader design in over 40 years. The Tripod 3iSpreader, was designed in cooperation with working camera professionals and promises better balance, smoother, safer operation, and ultra-durable construction.
In consulting with camera operators, Matt and Ray Irwin of the team at Matthews were able to identify three shortcomings with current camera tripod spreaders.
They can become wobbly over time, rely on Bungie cords which can stretch and become detached, and require layout boards or location mats when deploying on location.
Image Credit – Matthews Studio Equipment
With a working design, the Irwins field-tested the 3iSpreader in real-world rental conditions from select houses in Canada, Puerto Rico, and the United States.
Once the design was locked in, the brothers brought the 3iSpreader to Matthews Studio Equipment for further refinement and tooling.
The 3iSpreader addresses all of these issues with improvements that include machined metal 3iSpuds with rubber caps securely bolted to the feet.
These caps keep the 3iSpreader securely rested just above the floor without the need for additional boards or mats, and prevent any unwanted damage due to scratching.
Moreover, quick-release pins keep the tripod feet securely connected to the 3iSpreader, eliminating the need for Bungie cords to secure the connection.
The raised 3iSpreader remains grounded in this configuration, and the sturdy machined metal design prevents the entire setup from working its way loose and becoming wobbly over time.
The 3iSpreader segments are also adjustable over uneven terrain, from fully closed at 15” (38cm) to fully extended at 28” (71cm), and can be moved in increments of 2.5” (6.5cm).
The Spreader also folds from the center pivot bracket puck and can be carried by the recessed t-handle in the center for easy transport.
Image Credit – Matthews Studio Equipment
Features:
- Machined metal 3iSpuds with rubber caps securely bolt over the tripod’s spikes
- Securely connects to tripod feet with three quick-release pins
- Segments adjust from closed length to open length in increments of 2.5″/6.5cm
- Center pivot bracket puck design with recessed T-Handle in the center to fold quickly
- Spreader can travel within the sticks and does not need to be removed for storage
- Anti-reflective and easy to grip
- Non-corrosive, scratch-resistant, rust-resistant coating
- Safe to use in fresh or salt water
The 3iSpreader is made out of sturdy aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum and steel components that shoulder the burden of even the heaviest of camera riggings and are coated with an elastomer thermoplastic polyurethane that is anti-reflective, easy to grip, and resistant to scratches, rust, and corrosion.
The 3iSpreader is now available for $1099, through Matthews Studio Equipment and their authorized dealers.
The 3iSpreader comes complete with one (1) EA 3iSpreader, and three (3) EA 3iSpuds. Shooters can view the 3iSpreader at booth B119 during CineGear from June 9-11 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
For more information on the 3iSpreader visit www.msegrip.com.
[Source: Matthews Studio Equipment]
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