HVX200 and Appropriate Tripod

Simply put, you get what you pay for...

You spend good money for the HVX right, why make yourself look like your cousin's sister trying to run a camera. If you want to sacrifice NOT having smooth pan's and tilts, then go with the Bogen. I've never used a Bogen I was ever happy with.

I work with the Sachtler DV6 and have NEVER thought twice about my purchase. It preforms flawlessly. The Cartoni Focus is another great option.

Your investing in a tripod/head that will outlive your current camera purchase. Think about it.
 
Again we are back to what are your needs?
I can live without the smooth pan's and what have you.
At the moment a Cartoni or a Sachtler would be more than I am willing to spend, because I don't have the need.
But like you said; you get what you pay for...

I suggest the Figg Rig you may like it.

Kind regards
THE HONEST LIAR
 
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Don't generalize. The 501 and 503 are friction heads made for very light consumer use at best. To paraphrase the observation above... "they're crap".

The 516 and 519 are decidedly not crap. These fluid cartridge variable drag heads both come in at hundreds less than the closest comparable Vision series or Sactler 100mm DV series contenders.

I'd put my HVX camera on these heads without hesitation versus the smaller Vinten and Sactler heads (e.g., DV4, Pro10 - both 75mm bowl, BTW) and certainly alongside the Cartoni F100.

For cameras like the F900, we definitely go Sachtler 18+, but the Z1U and HVX are always on the 516 (3066) with no problems.

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I really appreicate all your help. You all have been very kind. So far the conclusion is that 516 and the focus are acceptable. Focus is superior to 516 but the 516 can still do the job right. There is a price difference of course.

The remaining factor is the weight and air travel. Which is lighter to carry? the focus F-101 or the 516/3182 Kits? Which is better take with in plane?
 
I completely agree with overland, it is too easy to make a generalized statement like that, i have the 516 and 3182 and when i went to buy them i looked at the 501/503's and they were not great for the hvx especially since im gonna mount an m2 on it, but i think bogens are great and cartoni's too. Just depends how much money you want to spend, cliche i know but you get what you pay for
 
I just wanted to share my final decision. While I recognize that the Focus is the superior tripod, 516 is also decent workable head.

The consensus is clear: for your needs: upgrade from 503. While those who used 516 attested to that it can handle the HVX. Since light weight and affordability are two important factors, 516 wins over the focus despite the focus winning over everthing.

If Affordability was not an issue here, focus would have been chosen. And I might still buy one in the future. But for now, I will shop for 516/3182 kit

Thank you all for your help. I hope that this thread answers the questions for so many people in my position.
 
Get yourself the 519 head, not 516 or focus.

Little description I found........"The 519 is so unique in that it is the only video head on the market encompassing both interchangeable counter-balance springs and an adjustment knob.

The 519 comes with two springs: one for cameras in the 2-10lb range, and the other for cameras within the 11-22 lb range.

In addition, fluid drag is easily controlled with a large numbered knob for repeatable settings and reference. Drag can be adjusted from the highest possible setting to zero drag, allowing for the finest control through 360º pan and +91.5º to -90º tilt."

http://www.adorama.com/BG519.html
 
I'm facing a similar problem myself, trying to decide what tripod to go with. Until reading about the 519 I was set on the Focus.

However curious to hear what people have to say about the 519.

I will be using the tripod with an HVX+Red Rock M2+geardear mattebox+7" monitor.

As well I own a 300mm Nikon that I plan to use sometimes.

thanks
 
I tried the focus and Sachtler 6 and the letter handled for me much better (but it is much more expensive but than again better built quality).
 
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