The Velbon QHD-61Q is one of two top-end ball and socket heads from Velbon, the other being the larger QHD-71Q. Like that model, it separates itself from its cheaper siblings with its magnesium-alloy construction. But at just 310g it doesn't add much to the weight of the tripod on which it's mounted.

The head can support a maximum weight of 4kg, which is sufficient for most pro DSLR and lens combinations.

At its base there's a standard 1/4-inch tripod thread, while two spirit levels on the back and side of the main platform enable you to see how level the camera is, although the vial on the side is easily obscured once a camera is mounted.

The ball is released via a lock to one side, and once locked into position it stays fixed, with no play whatsoever.

The Quick Release platform is wider than usual, making it ideal for larger-bodied DSLRs, and is easily released from the head via a lever. A small detachable key on the plate's underside enables the screw to be loosened and the plate detached from the camera, which is far preferable to fumbling around in your pocket for a small coin.

Although its finish doesn't quite match that of the tripod, the two partner well, and can be found as a kit for around £170. This makes it compare well with similar options from the likes of Giottos and Vanguard.

Verdict

Overall, the Velbon QHD-61Q is a lightweight yet solid option for Velbon users, and is arguably better value than the more senior QHD-71Q option.

Some of the priciest lenses are the longest ones, and they tend to be fairly large and weighty piece of equipment, too. Teleconverters appear to solve all three problems, being far cheaper, smaller and lighter than telephoto optics, and having an effect from as little 1.4x to around 3x.

The Kenko 2X Teleplus Pro 300 DGX 2x sits between the two, with a 2x conversion factor for compatible lenses and contacts to maintain both autofocus and metering functionality.

Available in Canon and Nikon fits, with a similar model available for Sony Alpha users and with a , the teleconverter contains seven elements arranged over four groups, with multi-coatings used throughout to help boost light transmission and minimise aberrations.

Kenko claims the Teleplus Pro 300 AF DGX 2x is designed to match the optical quality of the lens used, and that it won't introduce any additional vigentting.

Build quality appears good, with a combination of matt plastic and rubber used for the outer barrel, and a metal mount at each end. The lens release is large and moves easily when pulled back, while two red dots indicate clearly where to mount both the lens and the teleconverter.

In terms of results, the model doesn't appear to create any vignetting, and when images are viewed close there doesn't appear to be any significant difference in chromatic aberration either.

The latter appears to verify Kenko's claims regarding the teleconverter's optical qualities, although there is another reason for this: contrast is slightly lower in images shot with the teleconverter than in those shot without, meaning that edges are less defined, so any fringes are slightly blurred.

This drop in contrast is somewhat expected, and it means that details lack a little definition, but this is unavoidable when any further optics are added to a main lens.

Verdict

Overall, the Kenko Teleplus Pro 300 AF DGX 2x does a decent job to increase focal length while maintaining an acceptable standard of image quality, and it's less than half the price of Nikon and Canon's own 2x teleconverters.

Nikon users who want to use it for macro shooting may be disheartened to learn that the model won't autofocus properly with the AF-S Micro Nikkor 60mm f/2.8 G ED lens, which Kenko makes clear. And testing it with the newer AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G VR shows similar AF issues.

Manual focusing in each case is possible, though.

The Kenro Flash Meter is about as basic as battery-powered flash meters come. The removable dome at the top of the unit means that it's suitable for both incident and reflected light readings, while the lack of an LCD and all-plastic construction helps keeps costs down.

The central ring that dominates the front of the unit has apertures running from f/1.4-f/32, and ISO settings are found below these. Since the apertures are lit from behind by small LED lights, turning the ring to adjust the sensitivity instantly moves the correct aperture in front of the light.

There's a PC sync socket around the front, while power and flash trigger buttons sit on the side. Four further LED lights indicate the device's status and low battery, as well as 1/3 and 2/3 stop adjustment notifications that light up if measurements fall between the aperture settings on the dial. So, lights behind f/4 and 1/3 stop, for example, would indicate an aperture of f/4.5.

Straight away, you notice the unit isn't built to exacting standards: the 9V battery just about fits into its compartment, but once it's inside, the cover refuses to go back on.

The rest feels cheaply built, with almost the entire unit being the same plastic that creeks when subjected to any kind of pressure, and the diffuser dome is a little too small to be removed with ease.

Despite these faults - build quality arguably reflected in its asking price - the Kenro Flash Meter does what it's expected to do. As soon as it's turned on it's ready for action, and readings are promptly displayed.

Powering down is also instantaneous, and the unit automatically shuts itself down after two minutes of non-operation to help conserve battery power, too.

Verdict

If you're on a budget and just need a basic flash meter, the Kenro Flash Meter is fine. The issue with the battery compartment door makes it less suitable for outside use, though, and the cheap build quality also bring its longevity into question.