SmallRig Tribex Monopod Prototype Unveiled – Hydraulic Lock, X-Clutch, Modular Options

At IBC 2025, we stopped by the SmallRig sales space the place Manny Moreno walked us by way of the newest addition to the Tribex line: a prototype monopod developed in collaboration with YouTuber Gene Nagata, aka Potato Jet. The Tribex collection has already drawn consideration with their tripod designs, and now SmallRig is testing the waters with a monopod that carries over the identical X-Clutch deal with and hydraulic locking system, however in a streamlined, one-stick kind.The Tribex line started with tripods, developed along with Potato Jet, and shortly turned one among SmallRig’s most acknowledged designs. What began as a single product has grown right into a collection, with the brand new monopod carrying ahead the identical concepts of velocity, modularity, and operator-focused dealing with.Squeeze to launch and a one-press lock for fast and fluid top adjustments. Picture credit score: CineDHydraulic lock and fast setupManny demonstrated how the hydraulic lock works with a easy squeeze to launch and a one-press to lock, making top adjustments fast and fluid with one hand. This characteristic is geared toward operators who want to maneuver quick on set with out having to fiddle with twist locks – simply press and modify.Rotating locking system. Picture credit score: CineDTop plate and base designAt the highest, SmallRig is utilizing a fast launch plate that’s near Arca-Swiss, however with guiding pins and a rotating lock for additional safety. As soon as pressed down, it snaps into place and also you’re able to go, although a ultimate hand-tighten remains to be really helpful.Backside leg clutch system – swivel, lean, and lock. Picture credit score: CineDThe base has its personal clutch system, permitting the monopod to swivel and lean for versatile positioning, then lock again in with a press. Manny defined that Potato Jet has been carefully concerned in shaping the design, from experimenting with carbon fiber patterns to refining how the digicam sits on the mount. That collaboration, mixed with suggestions from U.S. and Asian markets, has pushed SmallRig to discover variations corresponding to a spherical ball as an alternative of three folding toes, since in some areas three toes would legally classify the monopod as a tripod. At IBC, they’re persevering with to assemble European suggestions earlier than locking within the ultimate model.Payload 40 lbs/1-17kg. Picture credit score: CineDPayload, prototype stage, and subsequent stepsThe designated payload is round 40 lbs (16–17 kg), sufficient for absolutely rigged setups like Sony FX6, RED Komodo, or DSMC2 our bodies. Manny was clear that that is nonetheless a prototype, with load testing ongoing in Shenzhen, however mentioned that standard digicam weights shouldn’t be a problem, as a part of the method now could be ironing out the precise configurations filmmakers need, for instance, head or no head, toes or no toes, and what equipment ought to ship with it.Worth and availabilitySmallRig is focusing on a sub-$400 worth level, with ultimate growth anticipated to wrap up by the tip of 2025 and delivery no later than Q1 2026. For extra data on SmallRig merchandise, please see their web site.The Tribex monopod carries over the DNA of SmallRig’s earlier tripod designs however adapts it for operators who need velocity, flexibility, and a modular strategy. Whether or not this prototype turns into the go-to stick for run-and-gun or occasion work will rely on the suggestions SmallRig gathers now.Do you favor a monopod with folding toes, a spherical ball base, or no base in any respect? Is a 40 lb payload greater than you’d ever want, or do you often push near that weight along with your setups? Tell us within the feedback!