A leveling base allows quick and easy leveling of your tripod head to allow for convenient panorama shooting on uneven terrain.
The Problem – Leveling a tripod by using the legs is a time-consuming nightmare that usually involves a lot of back and forth adjustment of the three legs.
The Solution – A leveling base allows you to quickly level the mounting platform with a single adjustment.
Options
LB-60N - If you have a standard tripod with a center column or flat apex (Ranger/Urban Series), then the LB-60 is the right leveling base for you. It simply goes between your tripod and the head, features a wing-nut style locking mechanism, bright spirit-level on a flange and grub screws to lock the head firmly in place.
LB-75 - Larger version of the LB-60N
In-Apex Leveling Base
YB-75 – If you have a systematic style tripod with a modular apex, then one of the
YB-75 leveling bases is the best option. It keeps the center of gravity low and the large 75mm ball makes fine adjustments easy, while providing a large contact area for good grip. The long column (YB-75LP) is the most convenient option, but it does not allow using the tripod in its lowest position. If you shoot in prone position a lot, then the short column (YB-75SP) is the better option.
LC vs. LP?
The models with a ‘P’ at the end have a flat top with a 3/8” mounting screw – ideal for mounting a tripod head on. For 99% of photographers, this is the ideal option.
The models with a ‘C’ at the end feature a lever-release clamp at the top. This is not practical for photographic applications and is designed for rifle/gun use, where the leveling base acts as the head and the rifle can be installed directly in the leveling base.
Built-in Leveling Base
The ultimate solution for photographers is the CEX Ranger models, which have a built-in leveling base. This saves weight, keeps center of gravity lower keeps the tripod simpler.