Introduction
The TILTA Mini Ball Head Bracket is a versatile and compact accessory designed for mounting external monitors, on-board lights, microphones, and other lightweight equipment to your camera rig. It offers flexible angle adjustments and secure attachment options for various shooting scenarios.
Product Features
- High Versatility: The top half features a 1/4"-20 thread with locating points, offering strong compatibility for lightweight equipment such as on-board lights and external monitors, with a load capacity of up to 1.5kg (3.3 lbs).
- Versatile & Adaptable: The bottom half features either a cold shoe mount (TA-MBH-CS-B) or a 1/4"-20 thread with locating pins (TA-MBH-1420-B), allowing direct installation on cameras, camera cages, or cold shoe receivers on top handles. It can also be mounted on a tabletop tripod.
- Adjustable Angle: Designed with a single-sided opening, allowing for a 90° vertical adjustment. It supports a 125° angle adjustment for the ball head and 360° horizontal rotation.
- Secure Installation: Both the top and bottom of the bracket have 1/4"-20 threads with locating points (or cold shoe), effectively preventing equipment from rotating and ensuring stability and safety during use.
- Mini and Portable: The compact size makes it easy to hold and convenient to carry.
Components Overview
Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Mini Ball Head Bracket:
Model TA-MBH-CS-B (Cold Shoe Mount)
- 1/4"-20 Screw: For attaching accessories to the top.
- Silicone Pad: Provides grip and protects attached equipment.
- Locking Washer: Prevents rotation of the top-mounted accessory.
- Ball Head: Allows for angle adjustments.
- M5 Toggle Screw: Locks and unlocks the ball head's position.
- Cold Shoe Locking Washer: Secures the cold shoe mount.
- Cold Shoe Mount: For attaching the bracket to a camera's cold shoe or other cold shoe receivers.
Model TA-MBH-1420-B (1/4"-20 Thread with Locating Pins)
- 1/4"-20 Screw: For attaching accessories to the top.
- Silicone Pads: Provides grip and protects attached equipment.
- Ball Head Locking Washer: Prevents rotation of the top-mounted accessory.
- Ball Head: Allows for angle adjustments.
- M5 Toggle Screw: Locks and unlocks the ball head's position.
- Thumb Screw Locking Washer: Secures the bottom 1/4"-20 screw.
- 1/4"-20 Screw with Locating Pins: For attaching the bracket to camera cages or other accessories with corresponding locating points.
Setup and Installation
- Attaching the Bracket to Your Camera/Rig:
- For TA-MBH-CS-B (Cold Shoe Mount): Slide the cold shoe mount at the base of the bracket into your camera's hot shoe or a cold shoe receiver on your camera cage/handle. Tighten the Cold Shoe Locking Washer (if present, or the integrated locking mechanism) to secure it firmly.
- For TA-MBH-1420-B (1/4"-20 Thread with Locating Pins): Screw the 1/4"-20 screw with locating pins at the base of the bracket into a corresponding 1/4"-20 threaded hole on your camera cage, top handle, or tripod. Ensure the locating pins align with any anti-twist holes for added security. Tighten the Thumb Screw Locking Washer to prevent rotation.
- Attaching an Accessory to the Bracket:
- Screw your accessory (e.g., monitor, light) onto the 1/4"-20 screw at the top of the ball head.
- Ensure the accessory is seated flush against the Silicone Pad and the Locking Washer.
- Tighten the accessory securely to prevent accidental detachment.
Operating Instructions
The Mini Ball Head Bracket allows for quick and precise adjustments to the angle of your mounted accessory.
- Adjusting the Angle:
- Loosen the M5 Toggle Screw by turning it counter-clockwise.
- Adjust the ball head to achieve the desired vertical (up to 90°), tilt (up to 125°), or horizontal (360° rotation) angle.
- Once the desired position is achieved, tighten the M5 Toggle Screw by turning it clockwise until the ball head is securely locked in place.
Always ensure the M5 Toggle Screw is fully tightened before leaving your equipment unattended to prevent accidental movement or damage.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the bracket with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by immediate drying.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the aluminum alloy finish and silicone components.
- Lubrication: The ball head mechanism is designed for smooth operation and generally does not require lubrication. If movement becomes stiff, consult professional service.
- Storage: Store the bracket in a clean, dry environment away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check all screws and connections to ensure they are tight. Retighten as necessary.
Troubleshooting
- Accessory feels loose after mounting:
- Ensure the 1/4"-20 screw on top is fully tightened into your accessory.
- Check that the Locking Washer is properly seated and tightened against the accessory.
- Ball head does not hold position or slips:
- Ensure the M5 Toggle Screw is fully tightened.
- Check if the load capacity (1.5kg / 3.3 lbs) is exceeded. Reduce the weight of the mounted accessory if necessary.
- Inspect the ball head and socket for any debris or damage that might prevent proper locking.
- Bracket feels loose on camera/rig:
- For TA-MBH-CS-B: Ensure the Cold Shoe Locking Washer (or integrated mechanism) is fully tightened.
- For TA-MBH-1420-B: Ensure the 1/4"-20 screw at the base is fully tightened and the Thumb Screw Locking Washer is secure. Verify that locating pins are correctly engaged if applicable.
Specifications
| Attribute | TA-MBH-CS-B (Cold Shoe) | TA-MBH-1420-B (1/4"-20 Thread) |
|---|---|---|
| Product Name | Mini Ball Head Mount-Cold Shoe | Mini Ball Head Mount-1/4"-20 Thread with Locating Points |
| SKU | TA-MBH-CS-B | TA-MBH-1420-B |
| Product Dimensions | 53 × 39 × 28 mm | 66 × 44 × 23 mm |
| Materials | Aluminum alloy / Silicone | |
| Net Weight | 58 g | 70 g |
| Color | Black | |
| Photography Accessories Type | Ball Head | |
| Electric | No | |
| Package | Yes | |
| Origin | Mainland China | |
| Load Capacity | Up to 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) | |
| Vertical Adjustment | 90° | |
| Angle Adjustment | 125° | |
| Horizontal Rotation | 360° | |
User Tips
- For optimal stability, always ensure all screws are hand-tightened securely. Avoid over-tightening, which can strip threads.
- When mounting heavier accessories (close to the 1.5kg limit), double-check the tightness of the M5 Toggle Screw frequently during use.
- Utilize the locating pins/points on the TA-MBH-1420-B model whenever possible to prevent unwanted rotation of the bracket itself on your rig.
- Consider the balance of your setup when positioning accessories to avoid putting excessive strain on the ball head or your camera's mounting points.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the official TILTA customer service. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For the latest product information and updates, please visit the official TILTA website.
Package Contents
- Tilta Mini Ball Head Mount – Black *1