What tripod is everyone using with their HVX200

Anguish!

Anguish!

Wow. I was all set on getting a Bogen 503 when I read enough on this forum to think it wasn't really smooth enough. Then, when sucking it up and thinking I'd jump to a Boegn 516, people start talking about Libec. What's a guy (on a budget) to do. I am just not ready for the Sachtlers and the Millers. Any comments on the "mid-range" Bogens vs. the similarly priced Libecs would be appreciated. Camera about 5-6 lbs - looking to get a Canon XH-A1 very soon.

Thnx!
 
Got my Sachtler DV6 today. Sweeeeeet. :love4:

Wish I had it with me in Belize, would have mad things alot easier. Oh well. Next timeI guess.
 
ulrik said:
Jeremy7 said:
Any opinions on the new Gitzo GT5540LS Carbon Fiber legs compared to the Miller solo VJ legs? http://www.naturescapes.net/store/product.php?productid=201


The GItzo carbons are great. The 5540 is big, the 3540 is more like the Miller. I have the 3540 with a Catoni HiDV on top. It's LIGHT WEIGHT ! ! !
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Will I be able to level the head with the GT1424 100mm bowl or will I need to level with the legs? This is very important for me and I really like being able to level the head quickly which is the case on regular video tripods (bal leveller).

Otherwise the Miller Solo VJ might be the preferred choice. But I really like how low and high the Gizto 5540XLS can go... 200cm high and 10cm low!
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I have decided to go for either a Vinten or Sachtler head. The Sachtler's look like everything made in Germany (although manufactured in Costa Rica): indestructible. I only here negative things about the Sachtler 75mm legs. So if it will be Sachtler, it will be a head only with Miller or Gitzo legs. Model will be a DV-6 or DV-8 SB. What I like about Sachtler is that they give a 3 year warranty and 5-year on the fluid module compared to only 1-year for Vinten.

I have heard nothing but praise for the Vinten's. I am considering the Vision 3 or Vision 6. I think the Vision 3 will work fine and I do not have to change springs very often but I like the perfect balance system on the Vision 6. I also haven't heard negative things about the Vision pozi-loc tripod legs. If I go this route, both a Vinten kit or again Miller or Gitzo legs are an option.

Then I will have to decide if I buy CF or Alloy legs. Everyone keeps mentioning weight as an advantage but I would never pay $200 premium for a few ounces less weight. But I am interested in durability. From what I have heard, alloy legs can dent/corrode but Carbon can crush/splinter when damaged.

Finally, I would like to hear from someone who is using Miller or Gitzo legs (spreaderless) if the legs flex when you push hard from above (like the Sachtler 75mm legs and many other legs do). I am also interested in stabillity compared to groundspreader/mid-level spreader models.

Many thanks in advance.
 
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Take_1, did you get the Sachtler legs with it? How do you find them?

I'm tempted to try pairing the DV6 SB head with Miller Solo DV20 legs, as flexing has been the problem people have been saying about the low-end Sachtler legs.
 
I went with the Sachtler speedlock CF legs and mid level spreader. I honestly don't know what some people are doing with this tripod to complain about it... unless they are actually climbing on it and riding it like a pony.:huh:

It is ROCK solid in the 1st two stages. When fully extended if you REALLY crank on it you can get it to move a tiny little bit but not in ANY way that would come into play for normal shooting situations with a properly weight matched camera and rods/matte box setup. I can't even begin to imagine what kind of scenerio would come into play that would cause this kind of force to be put onto any tripod... unless of course you are also double timing it as a support for a crane or jib arm.

I think its a solid choice for anyone who needs a great tripod and who respects their hard earned gear. Plus, its a better deal (cost wise) to get the complete package. You get the DV6 head, Speedlock CF legs with a mid-level spreader, and a nice soft padded case.

my 2 cents
 
I think I do agree with you that everything can break or flex as long as you try very hard but when threat your gear with respect that won't happen fast.
 
Take_1, how do you like the head? How is the build quality? Are knobs sturdy? Can you balance your camera perfectly with the 10 step counter-balance? How is the quick-release plate... plastic or metal? Many thanks.
 
florisvaneck said:
Take_1, how do you like the head? How is the build quality? Are knobs sturdy? Can you balance your camera perfectly with the 10 step counter-balance? How is the quick-release plate... plastic or metal? Many thanks.
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The head is really nice. I have to admit that I am used to renting the Sachtler Arrow 25 with a 100mm bowl so this smaller unit is a bit of an adjustment when you are used to that baby. But the DV6 is very nice for its class, smooth and highly configurable. I completely kills the unit Miller has in its class.

The knobs are sturdy, they are plastic which did bother me a little at first, but its not brittle plastic so they should fair quite well for me. I am a freak about taking care of my stuff, so I don't see them being a problem. Balance is quick and painless. The quick releace plate is metal just like the big boys. I esp. like the illuminated level.

Do you have the option to rent one before you buy it or at least see one in a showroom where you could put your camera onto it to see if you like it?
 
Hi all:

Been shooting with the Sachtler DV-6SB with the Miller Solo DV legs since November. Love it! It is a great combo, basically no flex unless you do something insane with it or over weight it.

The Sachtler legs had a (gag) spreader and were way too short for my liking, that's why I spent the extra bucks for the Millers.

I am VERY happy with the combo, it's one of the best pieces of kit I have ever owned.

All my best,

Dan
 
Have any of you tried the Vinten Vision 3 head? I am trying to decide wether to go for Vinten or Sachtler. They are equally priced. I do not have access to both heads to try them out first. So I rely on your opinions.

I am very interested in the Gitzo 3540XLS legs. They go 201cm high and an incredible 10cm low to the ground. What I really like about the Gitzo is the lifetime warranty that you get. The other option would be the Miller 1505 legs (the 3-stage design) with a Sachtler DV-8 SB/100. What I need to know is with the Gitzo, if I will be able to level the head under it (like with normal video tripods) or if I can only level with the legs. I hate that.
 
Hi Take 1,

Glad to hear you're happy with the Sachtler DV6 package, I'm looking at picking it up as well. Just curious as to what HVX accessories you calculated on using on this tripod. Do you possibly plan to use, rods, matte box, 35mm adapter, lens, firestore or other ? Can the DV6 take this load or is the DV8 a better option? Is there a huge difference between the 75mm bowls and the 100mm bowls?

Cheers,

Al
 
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