Arca-Swiss Monoball X-Table System

This is a first rate mono focusing set up. To mount it on a tripod you either need an Arca-Swiss X-system tripod head (or clamp that fits to your tripod) or to convert it to fit a standard Arca-Swiss (not X-system) plate. I used a hexagonal wrench to remove the top clamp shown in the picture and used this clamp, which has a standard 1/4 inch threaded screw hole in it to attach a standard Arca Swiss plate (e.g. Arca-Swiss Cameraplate 75 for MonoballFix). To the top I then attached a standard Arca-swiss compatible clamp (Kirk QRC-2 Quick Release Clamp for Arca-Type Plates - 2 Base). It looks like other people purchased this nodal rail that will take an x-table system mount directly (attach to the bottom rail of macro rail system) and then can be attached to a standard Arca-Swiss mount tripod head. Once set up it works extremely well with adjustable tension and a nice geared system. I chose this product based on weight and length of the rails.

I was in the market for a macro rail system but needed the dual adjustability of x-y axis. My photos are often taken in steep and rocky terrain where the luxury of nudging your tripod an inch or so sideways doesn't always exist. The Arca-Swiss table system was intriguing and since owning other Arca-Swiss products, I took a chance on this one having the same great quality. The advertised photo is confusing since it shows the bottom rail locked into the jaws of the MonoballFix clamp. That is where your camera plate needs to be instead. OK it didn't take too long to figure the problem. I really like the friction knobs that help to secure the adjustment knobs. The gearing is so well manufactured that if your camera were pointing at any angle besides level, the camera's weight could allow for some creeping due to gravity. I use this device with a Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens. To affix the lens to the MonoballFix clamp, I suggest that you also purchase a tripod mounting ring for the lens and an Arca-Swiss 75 mm camera plate. This is a good product and I have no regrets for making the purchase.