C-Stand - What to look for?

[groovyone]

I am considering getting a C-stand. Right now I have 5 8' light stands, and would like something taller, plus with the C-stand and boom it would seem I can suspend my 24" softbox over someone without having to shoot around a stand.

I have been looking at the Avenger and TC recommended the Matthews. I kinda like the idea of a detachable base, and both are offered with kits that include the boom and grip head.

Is there anything specific I should look for? Does the black vs chrome finish make a difference?

[PhotoByLeal]

Keith,

Camera Co-Op just place an order for a lot of C-stands and Avenger product that should be coming in pretty soon. I would like a C-stand, but I think I am just going to order a boom & the arm and put a weight @ the end to hold my SB900 & 24 Cheetach box.... I tried it with my all in one stand & boom I it worked just fine, but the handle brook this weekend doing a photo shoot.
I think I am just buying the swivel and boom, and I am done!

I would say black is better, but I say buy what they have in stock or order it!

later....

[texxter]

Take a look at the C-stands sold by Cheetah in Dallas - for a $100 you get a very strong complete C-stand. I actually like it as much as my Matthews or Avenger ones. The base is a bit wider, the arm has a finished end to mount a strobe head, and the finish and construction are quite good. You'd probably need to pick it in Dallas, as it's going to be expensive to ship.

Edit - black is more likely to peel off and scratch than chrome, imho.

[Daniel W.]

MMM...love C-stands but not the weight when traveling...

As far as what to look for... avoid black. They do peel after time, the only reason I have seen someone opt for a black stand is so that there's no chance of reflecting light (they shoot tabletop / micro stuff).

Look for a knuckle-lock on the shaft that you'll be comfortable with. I've seen some older Avenger and Mole stands that have a tiny plastic knob (like the folding-leg models) or a small wing nut for the shaft lock, and when you've got a heavy load up top, they're a huge pain! Lately I've been liking the locking-legs type base more than the "friction spin" on some of the Matthews (take a look at this video for a rough demo YouTube - C-Stand by KUPO Grip)

Also here's a good one too, (turn down speakers)

YouTube - New Toy for Television & Still Photo Production