Gentec International, the exclusive distributor of Manfrotto products in Canada, announces the launch of Manfrotto’s new 190, an updated version of Manfrotto’s most popular tripod.

The new 190 is a unique tripod that combines compact size, professional features, and excellent build quality that has given it an exceptionally broad appeal. Made in Italy to the highest standards, the new 190 maintains the heritage of this core Manfrotto line, but sets a new industry benchmark with a host of elegantly simple innovations and practical improvements.

The next-generation 190 is faster and easier than ever to set up and adjust with its new Quick Power Lock system that allows all the sections of each leg to be released in a single, one-handed action. The new, patented rotating bubble level is quick to set up and can be rotated 360° so it can be positioned where it’s most comfortable and accessible to use; it is easy to read, whatever the shape of the head or however the tripod is set up. The new leg angle selectors are also easy to set up and the ergonomic design prevents fingers and nails from being pinched in the upper casting. One of the most innovative aspects of the new 190 is its compact design, which allows for easier portability. The new, patented 90° centre column is an impressive feat of engineering that helps make the new 190 significantly more compact. Hidden inside the tripod’s top casting until it’s needed, the mechanism can be raised with a single finger to allow the centre column to swing to the horizontal position, with no disassembly and without removing the head or camera.

The new 190 offers better integration with accessories for more shooting possibilities. Taking its lead from Manfrotto’s professional equipment lines, an Easy Link 3/8” thread attachment in the top casting turns the 190 into a mobile studio, allowing it to hold an LED light, reflector, or other accessory.

The new 190 is available as a three-section aluminum model (MT190XPRO3; $269.95 SRP), a four-section aluminum model (MT190XPRO4; $299.95 SRP), a three-section carbon fibre model (MT190CXPRO3; $479.95 SRP), and a four-section carbon fibre model (MT190CXPRO4; $519.95 SRP). The 190 is also available as three and four-section aluminum kits that include Manfrotto’s 496RC2 ball head; suggested retail prices are $379.95 (MK190XP3BH) and $409.95 (MK190XP4BH), respectively.