Think Tank Bags

[calebk]

Just bought the Airport Antidote backpack yesterday.

Some initial thoughts.

Introduction.
I went down to TK Foto to get the bag. For those who are targetting this bag, it's being sold at $279 (inclusive of GST).

Build Quality.
The build is excellent. IMHO it beats the hell out of Lowepro. The fabric feels very well put together, and I would be confident that my equipment is well-protected when inside the bag.

Interior.
The internal dividers are very Crumpler-style; you can attach them to each other and the walls of the main compartment. IMHO a very nice touch to have, so you can customise the interior however you want. So far, I've been through two configurations, namely an almost empty bag for modular system components to be dumped inside, and a lite setup, so I can carry all my stuff inside with use of the dividers.

I foresee myself using the first option more often, especially when shooting church or other events.

Also, two see-thru, semi-transparent pouches on the inside of the flap provide easy storage for extra batteries, cards, cleaning kit and other miscellaneous odds and ends. Because they are see through, you can quickly check that you have what you need to bring, without having to open the compartment and rummage through the whole pocket.

Exterior.
Straps take a bit of getting used to, but I'm sure in due time I'll grow to love it. The bag feels good when being worn - it doesn't feel awkward or unergonomic. A nice small pocket at the top for keys or an MP3 player is a nice touch.

There are three carrying handles: on top, on the side and at the bottom. This is rather overkill, but it helps when you need to grab it quick I guess. I do not foresee any use of the other two handles besides the top one.

Usage of the elastic band to secure stray excess strap is a little dodgy IMHO. The straps often find themselves moving around soon after, and I find one shoulder strap longer than the other. However, this is a minor point. Otherwise, the bag is excellent.

There are also attachment loops off to one side of the bag, so you can attach a tripod/monopod strap (provided) to the side, then slot a tripod/monopod into the side pocket, securing it with the strap. TT also provides a tripod pocket for longer tripods, so the legs hang off the bag into the pocket, rather than into the side pocket, where it will stick out a large bit on top of the bag. TT also provides a folder with instructions on how to attach the tripod/monopod straps, and the tripod pocket.

Overall.
I have yet to extensively use the bag, but so far, it has impressed me. I will be trying it out over a long event this coming weekend, and will update you guys.

 

[Randius]

Just bought the Airport Antidote backpack yesterday.

Some initial thoughts.

Introduction.
I went down to TK Foto to get the bag. For those who are targetting this bag, it's being sold at $279 (inclusive of GST).

Build Quality.
The build is excellent. IMHO it beats the hell out of Lowepro. The fabric feels very well put together, and I would be confident that my equipment is well-protected when inside the bag.

Interior.
The internal dividers are very Crumpler-style; you can attach them to each other and the walls of the main compartment. IMHO a very nice touch to have, so you can customise the interior however you want. So far, I've been through two configurations, namely an almost empty bag for modular system components to be dumped inside, and a lite setup, so I can carry all my stuff inside with use of the dividers.

I foresee myself using the first option more often, especially when shooting church or other events.

Also, two see-thru, semi-transparent pouches on the inside of the flap provide easy storage for extra batteries, cards, cleaning kit and other miscellaneous odds and ends. Because they are see through, you can quickly check that you have what you need to bring, without having to open the compartment and rummage through the whole pocket.

Exterior.
Straps take a bit of getting used to, but I'm sure in due time I'll grow to love it. The bag feels good when being worn - it doesn't feel awkward or unergonomic. A nice small pocket at the top for keys or an MP3 player is a nice touch.

There are three carrying handles: on top, on the side and at the bottom. This is rather overkill, but it helps when you need to grab it quick I guess. I do not foresee any use of the other two handles besides the top one.

Usage of the elastic band to secure stray excess strap is a little dodgy IMHO. The straps often find themselves moving around soon after, and I find one shoulder strap longer than the other. However, this is a minor point. Otherwise, the bag is excellent.

There are also attachment loops off to one side of the bag, so you can attach a tripod/monopod strap (provided) to the side, then slot a tripod/monopod into the side pocket, securing it with the strap. TT also provides a tripod pocket for longer tripods, so the legs hang off the bag into the pocket, rather than into the side pocket, where it will stick out a large bit on top of the bag. TT also provides a folder with instructions on how to attach the tripod/monopod straps, and the tripod pocket.

Overall.
I have yet to extensively use the bag, but so far, it has impressed me. I will be trying it out over a long event this coming weekend, and will update you guys.

A great brief review of the Antidote. I am sure you will only come to love the bag more as you keep on using it.

 

[Randius]

By the way, anyone interested in a Speed Demon with the wording "CPS Canon Professional Services" on it?

 

[cervello]

Now will need a light tent for product shoot

ha? not the pixel shade tent ah?

i just returned... empty-handed. have to wait for the next shipment... sigh...

always can order for airportsecurity la....

You and sehsuan have been spreading enough poison last night :sticktong

wah got poison ah? got mouse die or not? siao liao, no wonder i can only use a pen on my laptop today, the mouse mati liao...

hehe...maybe can start at TT user group and hold meetups at TK ;p bro phoakm can be the chairman :bsmilie:

i second and third the idea. anyone fourth and fifth the idea? :bsmilie:

By the way, anyone interested in a Speed Demon with the wording "CPS Canon Professional Services" on it?

wah!!!! you must be a PRO!!!!

 

[phoakm]

Just bought the Airport Antidote backpack yesterday.

Some initial thoughts.

Introduction.
I went down to TK Foto to get the bag. For those who are targetting this bag, it's being sold at $279 (inclusive of GST).

Build Quality.
The build is excellent. IMHO it beats the hell out of Lowepro. The fabric feels very well put together, and I would be confident that my equipment is well-protected when inside the bag.

Interior.
The internal dividers are very Crumpler-style; you can attach them to each other and the walls of the main compartment. IMHO a very nice touch to have, so you can customise the interior however you want. So far, I've been through two configurations, namely an almost empty bag for modular system components to be dumped inside, and a lite setup, so I can carry all my stuff inside with use of the dividers.

I foresee myself using the first option more often, especially when shooting church or other events.

Also, two see-thru, semi-transparent pouches on the inside of the flap provide easy storage for extra batteries, cards, cleaning kit and other miscellaneous odds and ends. Because they are see through, you can quickly check that you have what you need to bring, without having to open the compartment and rummage through the whole pocket.

Exterior.
Straps take a bit of getting used to, but I'm sure in due time I'll grow to love it. The bag feels good when being worn - it doesn't feel awkward or unergonomic. A nice small pocket at the top for keys or an MP3 player is a nice touch.

There are three carrying handles: on top, on the side and at the bottom. This is rather overkill, but it helps when you need to grab it quick I guess. I do not foresee any use of the other two handles besides the top one.

Usage of the elastic band to secure stray excess strap is a little dodgy IMHO. The straps often find themselves moving around soon after, and I find one shoulder strap longer than the other. However, this is a minor point. Otherwise, the bag is excellent.

There are also attachment loops off to one side of the bag, so you can attach a tripod/monopod strap (provided) to the side, then slot a tripod/monopod into the side pocket, securing it with the strap. TT also provides a tripod pocket for longer tripods, so the legs hang off the bag into the pocket, rather than into the side pocket, where it will stick out a large bit on top of the bag. TT also provides a folder with instructions on how to attach the tripod/monopod straps, and the tripod pocket.

Overall.
I have yet to extensively use the bag, but so far, it has impressed me. I will be trying it out over a long event this coming weekend, and will update you guys.

Nice review!

 

[madmacs]

Just bought the Airport Antidote backpack yesterday.

Some initial thoughts.

Introduction.
I went down to TK Foto to get the bag. For those who are targetting this bag, it's being sold at $279 (inclusive of GST).

Build Quality.
The build is excellent. IMHO it beats the hell out of Lowepro. The fabric feels very well put together, and I would be confident that my equipment is well-protected when inside the bag.

Interior.
The internal dividers are very Crumpler-style; you can attach them to each other and the walls of the main compartment. IMHO a very nice touch to have, so you can customise the interior however you want. So far, I've been through two configurations, namely an almost empty bag for modular system components to be dumped inside, and a lite setup, so I can carry all my stuff inside with use of the dividers.

I foresee myself using the first option more often, especially when shooting church or other events.

Also, two see-thru, semi-transparent pouches on the inside of the flap provide easy storage for extra batteries, cards, cleaning kit and other miscellaneous odds and ends. Because they are see through, you can quickly check that you have what you need to bring, without having to open the compartment and rummage through the whole pocket.

Exterior.
Straps take a bit of getting used to, but I'm sure in due time I'll grow to love it. The bag feels good when being worn - it doesn't feel awkward or unergonomic. A nice small pocket at the top for keys or an MP3 player is a nice touch.

There are three carrying handles: on top, on the side and at the bottom. This is rather overkill, but it helps when you need to grab it quick I guess. I do not foresee any use of the other two handles besides the top one.

Usage of the elastic band to secure stray excess strap is a little dodgy IMHO. The straps often find themselves moving around soon after, and I find one shoulder strap longer than the other. However, this is a minor point. Otherwise, the bag is excellent.

There are also attachment loops off to one side of the bag, so you can attach a tripod/monopod strap (provided) to the side, then slot a tripod/monopod into the side pocket, securing it with the strap. TT also provides a tripod pocket for longer tripods, so the legs hang off the bag into the pocket, rather than into the side pocket, where it will stick out a large bit on top of the bag. TT also provides a folder with instructions on how to attach the tripod/monopod straps, and the tripod pocket.

Overall.
I have yet to extensively use the bag, but so far, it has impressed me. I will be trying it out over a long event this coming weekend, and will update you guys.

hehe...so fast come out review. the bag does indeed sound good. maybe i keep this in mind for future...also must let wallet recover :sweat:

 

[Randius]

ha? not the pixel shade tent ah?

wah!!!! you must be a PRO!!!!

err... for all those who know me, I am no pro and I use Nikon ;p

Just stating there is a chance of getting such a special belt pack

 

[Randius]

hehe...so fast come out review. the bag does indeed sound good. maybe i keep this in mind for future...also must let wallet recover :sweat:

No, no, no. You should not keep it in mind. You should buy it and keep it in your room ;p Buy now, wallet and card can always recover later.

 

[calebk]

A great brief review of the Antidote. I am sure you will only come to love the bag more as you keep on using it.

Nice review!

hehe...so fast come out review. the bag does indeed sound good. maybe i keep this in mind for future...also must let wallet recover :sweat:

Thanks. I will release a more detailed one after I use the bag more extensively. Right now it's more of first impressions. Hehe.

 

[Randius]

Apologise for the very late review on the Change Up ;p

Introduction
The Change Up (CU) is one of the latest products from Think Tank Photo (TTP) and is a hybrid beltpack which combines the use of a standard beltpack, shoulder/sling bag and a chest harness depending on your configuration. I purchased the CU directly from TTP and the item cost ~190 SGD exclusive of shipping charges. The item can now be gotten from TK Photo at only 179 SGD
(inclusive of GST)!

Items in Package
As expected of TTP products, the CU comes with a generous assortment of divider in different sizes. The CU also comes with an internal padding which fits the interior nicely and offers extra protection. It comes with two shoulder straps for the purpose of transforming the CU into a standard beltpack, shoulder/sling bag or a chest harness. To protect the CU from the elements,
it also comes with a detachable rain cover.

Build Quality
The build of CU feels better than the CompuDayPack and Slingshot and does not feel as rough as the Crumpler Keystone. The dividers feels like Lowepro's but are less flimsy.

Internal
With the generous amount of dividers, you can attach them to the walls of the padding and create your own configuration. The padding can be removed to free up more space but I prefer more protection for my precious equipment. Also, two transparent pockets are located on the outside of the padding for easy storage of memory cards. The pockets are able to contain CF cards in cases. The detachable rain cover is secured to the interior of the main compartment and can be removed for drying.

External
The front zippered pocket has several slots for storing pen, cards, and other assortment of stuffs and there is a blue-coloured strap for attaching the Pixel Pocket Rocket which is not included in the package.

The CU has four pockets made up of stretchable materials. They stick close to the body but can be expanded to take more stuffs. As demostrated in the official website, the side pockets are capable of taking a SB800! The front pockets are great places to temporarily store the body/lens/hotshoe/socket caps which are so prone to missing.

There are three modulus loops on each belt, seperated by stitches that allows further configuration of the CU by adding additional modulus components such as Chimp Cage, Lens Changer, Lightning Fast and so on. The components can be held in place by inserting the plastic plate into the loop.

The shoulder straps are somewhat of a let down. The straps are adjustable in length with a loose end allowing quick adjustment. However, the straps are not slip-proof and the CU will slip with a heavy load when used as a shoulder bag. The loose end should be secured in place with a rubber or fabric loop.

The belts are very comfortable as they are extremely wide and have thick paddings. The adjustable portion can be hiddden in the secret pockets on the inside of the wider portion. Following which, the whole belt can be concealed in the pocket at the back of CU. The belts cannot be tucked away when modulus components are attached.

Test Configurations
Prior to upgrading to D200, I had the D80 and an assortment of other accessories and I was surprised to find that the CU is capable of taking them all in the main compartment! Following is what are stored inside the main compartment:

1. Nikon D80
2. Nikon MB-D80
3. Nikon 18-200 with original hood reversed
4. Nikon 50/1.4 with KS-9 hood attached
5. Nikon SB800 with original diffuser
6. Rocket Blower

The CU is seperated into three partitions of which the biggest partition has the 18-200 attached to the D80 and the camera is placed with lens facing down. The MB-D80 is detached and sits at the bottom of the CU. SB800 is placed in vertical position with the flash positioned at 90 degrees. The 50/1.4 is placed on top of the rocket blower in another partition. Another lens of similar length to the 60/2.8 or 18-200 can take the place of the rocket blower without problem.

However, as the D200 is a bigger camera, the configuration is now significantly changed:

1. Nikon D200
2. Nikon MB-D200
3. Nikon 18-200 with original hood reversed
4. Nikon 50/1.4 with KS-9 hood attached

The main compartment is now split into two partitions with the bigger one containing the D200 with MB-D200 attached. The 18-200 and 50/1.4 sit in the other with a divider seperating them. The SB800 and rocket blower can no longer be put in the main compartment.

Please note that the above configurations introduce little to no bulge in the main compartment which may impact the use of the front zippered pocket.

Conclusion
The CU is an amazing beltpack with occasional use as a chest harness or shoulder bag. It is able to take a significant load but will only feel comfortable when used as a beltpack. In my opinion, when configured with additional components, CU can stand head-to-head with the pro belt system.


NOTE: This review will updated after I exchange the CU Pictures will be uploaded later

 

[phoakm]

Apologise for the very late review on the Change Up ;p

Introduction
The Change Up (CU) is one of the latest products from Think Tank Photo (TTP) and is a hybrid beltpack which combines the use
of a standard beltpack, shoulder/sling bag and a chest harness depending on your configuration. I purchased the CU directly
from TTP and the item cost ~190 SGD exclusive of shipping charges. The item can now be gotten from TK Photo at only 179 SGD
(inclusive of GST)!

Items in Package
As expected of TTP products, the CU comes with a generous assortment of divider in different sizes. The CU also comes with an
internal padding which fits the interior nicely and offers extra protection. It comes with two shoulder straps for the purpose
of transforming the CU into a standard beltpack, shoulder/sling bag or a chest harness. To protect the CU from the elements,
it also comes with a detachable rain cover.

Build Quality
The build of CU feels better than the CompuDayPack and Slingshot and does not feel as rough as the Crumpler Keystone. The
dividers feels like Lowepro's but are less flimsy.

Internal
With the generous amount of dividers, you can attach them to the walls of the padding and create your own configuration. The
padding can be removed to free up more space but I prefer more protection for my precious equipment. Also, two transparent
pockets are located on the outside of the padding for easy storage of memory cards. The pockets are able to contain CF cards
in cases. The detachable rain cover is secured to the interior of the main compartment and can be removed for drying.

External
The front zippered pocket has several slots for storing pen, cards, and other assortment of stuffs and there is a blue-coloured
strap for attaching the Pixel Pocket Rocket which is not included in the package.

The CU has four pockets made up of stretchable materials. They stick close to the body but can be expanded to take more stuffs.
As demostrated in the official website, the side pockets are capable of taking a SB800! The front pockets are great places to
temporarily store the body/lens/hotshoe/socket caps which are so prone to missing.

There are three modulus loops on each belt, seperated by stitches that allows further configuration of the CU by adding
additional modulus components such as Chimp Cage, Lens Changer, Lightning Fast and so on. The components can be held in place
by inserting the plastic plate into the loop.

The shoulder straps are somewhat of a let down. The straps are adjustable in length with a loose end allowing quick adjustment.
However, the straps are not slip-proof and the CU will slip with a heavy load when used as a shoulder bag. The loose end should
be secured in place with a rubber or fabric loop.

Test Configurations
Prior to upgrading to D200, I had the D80 and an assortment of other accessories and I was surprised to find that the CU is
capable of taking them all in the main compartment! Following is what are stored inside the main compartment:

1. Nikon D80
2. Nikon MB-D80
3. Nikon 18-200 with original hood reversed
4. Nikon 50/1.4 with KS-9 hood attached
5. Nikon SB800 with original diffuser
6. Rocket Blower

The CU is seperated into three partitions of which the biggest partition has the 18-200 attached to the D80 and the camera is
placed with lens facing down. The MB-D80 is detached and sits at the bottom of the CU. SB800 is placed in vertical position
with the flash positioned at 90 degrees. The 50/1.4 is placed on top of the rocket blower in another partition. Another lens
of similar length to the 60/2.8 or 18-200 can take the place of the rocket blower without problem.

However, as the D200 is a bigger camera, the configuration is now significantly changed:

1. Nikon D200
2. Nikon MB-D200
3. Nikon 18-200 with original hood reversed
4. Nikon 50/1.4 with KS-9 hood attached

The main compartment is now split into two partitions with the bigger one containing the D200 with MB-D200 attached. The 18-200
and 50/1.4 sit in the other with a divider seperating them. The SB800 and rocket blower can no longer be put in the main
compartment.

Please note that the above configurations introduce little to no bulge in the main compartment which may impact the use of
the front zippered pocket.

Conclusion
The CU is an amazing beltpack with occasional use as a chest harness or shoulder bag. It is able to take a significant load but
will only feel comfortable when used as a beltpack. In my opinion, when configured with additional components, CU can stand
head-to-head with the pro belt system.


NOTE: This review will updated after I exchange the CU Pictures will be uploaded later

Very interesting review. :think:

 

[xtemujin]

I think that it's better to start a new Think Tank review thread as this thread is too long and going to close shop soon.

 

[calebk]

Apologise for the very late review on the Change Up ;p

Introduction
The Change Up (CU) is...

Bro, started a new thread specifically for Reviews on TT products. Might want to go put your review over there.

 

[Randius]

Bro, started a new thread specifically for Reviews on TT products. Might want to go put your review over there.

Thanks bro for the initiative :thumbsup:

 

[Randius]

This is a follow-up to my issue with the stitches for the modulus loops coming loose on my Change Up. After contacting Doug on the issue, I received an email from James of TK on an one-to-one exchange of the Change Up! A good start to local TTP warranty :thumbsup:

 

[phoakm]

This is a follow-up to my issue with the stitches for the modulus loops coming loose on my Change Up. After contacting Doug on the issue, I received an email from James of TK on an one-to-one exchange of the Change Up! A good start to local TTP warranty :thumbsup:

Like I mentioned before...TT service . :thumbsup:

 

[socksiong]

This is a follow-up to my issue with the stitches for the modulus loops coming loose on my Change Up. After contacting Doug on the issue, I received an email from James of TK on an one-to-one exchange of the Change Up! A good start to local TTP warranty :thumbsup:

Solid!:thumbsup:

 

[TMC]

Those that posted reviews, please transfer them to the new thread on TTP products, thank you.

 

[xtemujin]

It's already up by calebk.

Those that posted reviews, please transfer them to the new thread on TTP products, thank you.

 

[psychobiologist]

more pictures!