Great video! Thanks for taking the time to do this. Too bad you couldn't compare the genuine Sony VCT-U14 with this third party model. But it's good to see the official Sony VCT-14 in comparison. There are just so many knockoffs online (both 'U' and non-'U' versions) that it's difficult to spot the real Sony ones.
OEM doesn't mean third party, it means 'Original Equipment Manufacturer'. So, in your case, the Sony VC14 plate is the OEM, not the third party VCT-U14. Otherwise, a good review. I only use Sony VCT14 plates, they are solid as hell. I used my original plate that I bought in 1999 until very recently, they are that good!
Sure. But the problem is, that OEM stuff is quite often from a no-name (aka "third party") producer - At least the dealers are using that term over the limit ^^. The VCT plates are btw. a good example: The original ones are sold under "Sony VCT-14" or "Genuine Sony VCT-14" - And the 3rd party / lower quality stuff is quite often offered under the terms "OEM VCT-14" or "OEM Sony VCT-14". And as said: OEM means quite often more or less "no-name" - As otherwise it would have a brand or special product name - OEM is often used just as a "place holder" for a 3rd party producer (especially dealers are using it if they don´t have a producer or product name for example). So you cannot rely on such terms - Not even at bigger online dealers for example. Btw.: I also loved the original VCT-14 plate. Really built like a tank. Though sold the V-Lock system (as I now focus more on what I really need - So the rig is now small enough for more compact and lighter quick release solutions) ^^.
I also loved it - Sure - But as I am primarily using DSLRs or system cameras, it´s not necessary to focus on the V-LOCK / VCT system. With a full shoulder rig (with a few kilograms) it´s a DREAM to use yes. Btw.: With the Edelkrone-Rig it was REALLY nice and even necessary (as already the base rig was quite heavy). But as I now have an as small as possible tripod system / base rig and a small (seperate) shoulder support, it´s not necessary any more to use the V-LOCK system (at least not now). (Also an information for everyone reading this:) It´s btw. also important to know, that the VCT-14 alone is already quite heavy. And also the V-LOCK baseplates are quite heavy (especially the Tilta and Lanparte with integrated shoulder pads). So you also need a better tripod from scratch on - Which means again more weight to carry - And you´re then carrying bulkier and heavier equipment for more or less nothing ^^. But it´s definietly the best QR system for heavier loads / bigger cameras - Yes. Btw.: I would love to see more lightweight accessories - With maybe an even smaller / shorter version of the VCT-14 for baseplates like the Lanparte BP-02 for example - Would love to have that option for smaller rigs too ... Have a nice day. ^^
3 years with the VCTU14 and I can confirm this guy speaks the Truth! Mine was good for a while, but recently the metal is wearing down and the camera has too much wiggle room and so it's tilting to the heavier side... unacceptable!
Thank you for this review. I used this review to decide which VLOCK plate to pick and stuck with the VCT-14 because of its construction build. Very nice
Just checked my own vct-u14 plate after watching this and realised its the same as the third party version you have here (with the same problems!) so I'm going to buying an official sony version after this!
Btw.: It doesn´t have to be the original VCT-14 - You can also check out one from other (bigger) manufacturers. Just keep an eye on the mentioned features / points ^^. LG
When building a dslr rig would this be a good baseplate in which to build the foundation of the rig? Also will this work with Manfrotto release plates? Great Video and Thanks!!
Well - The VCT Plates (together with the bigger Lanparte VMS-01 shoulder pad for example) are more interesting for bigger cameras / rig systems (like Sony FS5 / FS7 rigs - Or with RED / ARRI and so on). Also with the smaller Lanparte VMP-01 block (which is also working with the VCT plates) it´s only really useful for larger cameras. Don´t forget: The bigger the rig, the bigger the fluid head has to be. And the VCT-14 plate also adds weight (which the fluid head has to hold in position). The overall system -> VCT-14 + Rig / Camera on top is nice and fast to mount and unmount bigger cameras and huge rigs - But not really needed for smaller cameras. ^^ It´s better to concentrate more on "as small and lightweight as possible - but as rugged as needed" (you need to find the sweet spot inbetween weight and usability). It makes no sense to have a HUGE rig, which is then already extremely heavy (even without any "real" equipment mounted -> Like audio recorders, mics, a camera, lenses and so on). That was the main problem with the Edelkrone rigs (which is also reviewed quite a while ago). They were really nice (features wise). But already WAY too heavy for productive everyday use (at least without a proper shoulder pad -> Which was also already quite expensive). I think that was also the point why they discontinued the rig series. So -> Don´t make the same fault like me (I also started with WAY too big rig systems). ^^ Actually time is short - But it´s still planned to make a detailed video about my actual shoulder rig (which is more oriented towards flexibility and the already mentioned "sweet spot" inbetween usability and weight). Btw.: You can also start with a small shoulder-support (if you don´t need the rails for now). I still use for example a Cullman Cross Cruiser (which is also a part of my modular rig system). It´s not super cheap - But a good accessory to start with (and you can always have it with you). Or you can also go for a Gorillapod Focus + a ballhead and shape the set to your needs. Also quite nice for shooting (but not as "stealthy" as the Cullmann Cross Cruiser). Have a nice day. ^^
Just search Ebay for "VCT-U14" or "VCT-14". If it´s not clearly stated that it´s an original Sony, then it´s a chepaer copy ^^. For example: www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_sacat=0&_nkw=Sony+VCT-U14&_sop=15 The first one (at around 17$) should be the VCT-U14 version, I also used / had within this video. Though: I don´t recommend to buy the VCT-U14 version (especially the copied version). It´s better to go for a used VCT-14 instead. Even if it´s not looking brand new anymore ^^.
The best guess is that it stands for "video camera tripod". Sony released a ton of smaller video tripod models starting with the same VCT designation at the front. ^^ LG
I am Austrian as well but will use English for the benefit of foreign readers. I’ve seen “half” vct plates with only the front v clicky thing. But I don’t know who makes them. Could be useful for light rigs, being able to click a dslr securely onto a vct-14. I wouldn’t expect a half receiving plate to hold an Alexa xt securely though
Yep. There are also the short versions. Though: Most of the time even harder to get cheap (or to get the used at a good price point). The normal (longer) ones are just more widespread. But if "cheapness" is not the primary goal, then go for them. The VCT-14 doesn´t need the back locking pin at all ^^.
Hmm. You could check out the quite small "MVLP-01" mounting plate from Lanparte. Its quite new on the market (so I never tried it by myself - I always used the standard sized versions from different manufacturers). But its exactly the minimum you need to use for example the Lanparte "VMP-01" base. Would make a nice robust quick mount system. Though: Keep in your backhead, that the base is quite bulky - So its great for bigger rigs. BUT not if you want to focus on low weight / a most lightweigth setup. I also made that error in the past (i started with way too big rig systems with big handles, cage systems and so on - But the eyes were too big and also the rigs were. Most of the time a small rig is all you need ^^). Hope that helps. LG
I wish my clients knew I have to spend my nights watching reviews like this.
LOL! Brother, you said it...
Tell me about it :')
This comment deserves more appreciation...
Great video! Thanks for taking the time to do this. Too bad you couldn't compare the genuine Sony VCT-U14 with this third party model. But it's good to see the official Sony VCT-14 in comparison. There are just so many knockoffs online (both 'U' and non-'U' versions) that it's difficult to spot the real Sony ones.
OEM doesn't mean third party, it means 'Original Equipment Manufacturer'. So, in your case, the Sony VC14 plate is the OEM, not the third party VCT-U14.
Otherwise, a good review. I only use Sony VCT14 plates, they are solid as hell. I used my original plate that I bought in 1999 until very recently, they are that good!
Sure. But the problem is, that OEM stuff is quite often from a no-name (aka "third party") producer - At least the dealers are using that term over the limit ^^.
The VCT plates are btw. a good example: The original ones are sold under "Sony VCT-14" or "Genuine Sony VCT-14" - And the 3rd party / lower quality stuff is quite often offered under the terms "OEM VCT-14" or "OEM Sony VCT-14".
And as said: OEM means quite often more or less "no-name" - As otherwise it would have a brand or special product name - OEM is often used just as a "place holder" for a 3rd party producer (especially dealers are using it if they don´t have a producer or product name for example). So you cannot rely on such terms - Not even at bigger online dealers for example.
Btw.: I also loved the original VCT-14 plate. Really built like a tank. Though sold the V-Lock system (as I now focus more on what I really need - So the rig is now small enough for more compact and lighter quick release solutions) ^^.
Really? I love VCT. Love the fact Zacuto are finally embracing it!
I also loved it - Sure - But as I am primarily using DSLRs or system cameras, it´s not necessary to focus on the V-LOCK / VCT system. With a full shoulder rig (with a few kilograms) it´s a DREAM to use yes.
Btw.: With the Edelkrone-Rig it was REALLY nice and even necessary (as already the base rig was quite heavy). But as I now have an as small as possible tripod system / base rig and a small (seperate) shoulder support, it´s not necessary any more to use the V-LOCK system (at least not now).
(Also an information for everyone reading this:) It´s btw. also important to know, that the VCT-14 alone is already quite heavy. And also the V-LOCK baseplates are quite heavy (especially the Tilta and Lanparte with integrated shoulder pads). So you also need a better tripod from scratch on - Which means again more weight to carry - And you´re then carrying bulkier and heavier equipment for more or less nothing ^^.
But it´s definietly the best QR system for heavier loads / bigger cameras - Yes. Btw.: I would love to see more lightweight accessories - With maybe an even smaller / shorter version of the VCT-14 for baseplates like the Lanparte BP-02 for example - Would love to have that option for smaller rigs too ...
Have a nice day. ^^
3 years with the VCTU14 and I can confirm this guy speaks the Truth! Mine was good for a while, but recently the metal is wearing down and the camera has too much wiggle room and so it's tilting to the heavier side... unacceptable!
Thank you for this review. I used this review to decide which VLOCK plate to pick and stuck with the VCT-14 because of its construction build. Very nice
+Aaron Legg Good to hear it helped. Have fun using it.
(It´s really built to last nearly a whole lifetime - Like a good tripod ^^.)
Just checked my own vct-u14 plate after watching this and realised its the same as the third party version you have here (with the same problems!) so I'm going to buying an official sony version after this!
Btw.: It doesn´t have to be the original VCT-14 - You can also check out one from other (bigger) manufacturers. Just keep an eye on the mentioned features / points ^^. LG
When building a dslr rig would this be a good baseplate in which to build the foundation of the rig? Also will this work with Manfrotto release plates?
Great Video and Thanks!!
Well - The VCT Plates (together with the bigger Lanparte VMS-01 shoulder pad for example) are more interesting for bigger cameras / rig systems (like Sony FS5 / FS7 rigs - Or with RED / ARRI and so on). Also with the smaller Lanparte VMP-01 block (which is also working with the VCT plates) it´s only really useful for larger cameras. Don´t forget: The bigger the rig, the bigger the fluid head has to be. And the VCT-14 plate also adds weight (which the fluid head has to hold in position). The overall system -> VCT-14 + Rig / Camera on top is nice and fast to mount and unmount bigger cameras and huge rigs - But not really needed for smaller cameras. ^^
It´s better to concentrate more on "as small and lightweight as possible - but as rugged as needed" (you need to find the sweet spot inbetween weight and usability). It makes no sense to have a HUGE rig, which is then already extremely heavy (even without any "real" equipment mounted -> Like audio recorders, mics, a camera, lenses and so on). That was the main problem with the Edelkrone rigs (which is also reviewed quite a while ago). They were really nice (features wise). But already WAY too heavy for productive everyday use (at least without a proper shoulder pad -> Which was also already quite expensive). I think that was also the point why they discontinued the rig series.
So -> Don´t make the same fault like me (I also started with WAY too big rig systems). ^^
Actually time is short - But it´s still planned to make a detailed video about my actual shoulder rig (which is more oriented towards flexibility and the already mentioned "sweet spot" inbetween usability and weight). Btw.: You can also start with a small shoulder-support (if you don´t need the rails for now). I still use for example a Cullman Cross Cruiser (which is also a part of my modular rig system). It´s not super cheap - But a good accessory to start with (and you can always have it with you). Or you can also go for a Gorillapod Focus + a ballhead and shape the set to your needs. Also quite nice for shooting (but not as "stealthy" as the Cullmann Cross Cruiser).
Have a nice day. ^^
Where is the link for the cheap one so I can get it for my blackmagic Design URSA
Just search Ebay for "VCT-U14" or "VCT-14". If it´s not clearly stated that it´s an original Sony, then it´s a chepaer copy ^^.
For example: www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_sacat=0&_nkw=Sony+VCT-U14&_sop=15
The first one (at around 17$) should be the VCT-U14 version, I also used / had within this video.
Though: I don´t recommend to buy the VCT-U14 version (especially the copied version).
It´s better to go for a used VCT-14 instead. Even if it´s not looking brand new anymore ^^.
what does VCT stand for?
The best guess is that it stands for "video camera tripod". Sony released a ton of smaller video tripod models starting with the same VCT designation at the front. ^^ LG
Thanks!
I am Austrian as well but will use English for the benefit of foreign readers.
I’ve seen “half” vct plates with only the front v clicky thing. But I don’t know who makes them. Could be useful for light rigs, being able to click a dslr securely onto a vct-14.
I wouldn’t expect a half receiving plate to hold an Alexa xt securely though
Yep. There are also the short versions. Though: Most of the time even harder to get cheap (or to get the used at a good price point). The normal (longer) ones are just more widespread. But if "cheapness" is not the primary goal, then go for them. The VCT-14 doesn´t need the back locking pin at all ^^.
could you point out a brand or product?
Hmm. You could check out the quite small "MVLP-01" mounting plate from Lanparte. Its quite new on the market (so I never tried it by myself - I always used the standard sized versions from different manufacturers). But its exactly the minimum you need to use for example the Lanparte "VMP-01" base. Would make a nice robust quick mount system. Though: Keep in your backhead, that the base is quite bulky - So its great for bigger rigs. BUT not if you want to focus on low weight / a most lightweigth setup. I also made that error in the past (i started with way too big rig systems with big handles, cage systems and so on - But the eyes were too big and also the rigs were. Most of the time a small rig is all you need ^^). Hope that helps. LG
Thanks 👍👍
edsonguerreiro BAHIA
Jo eh