Found a good set of sticks... Recommendations?

[lovetrumpsfear]

Hi all,

I've been in the market for a good tripod and fluid head, and I found this while I was cruising B&H:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/359716-REG/Bogen_Manfrotto__525MVB_Tripod_Legs_Black_.html

That looks like a pretty good deal to me... Before I take the plunge, are there any other recommended combos in that price range (or below) that I could get several years' medium to heavy use out of?

Thanks much,
Paul

edit: I currently shoot an HV20 with a Letus Extreme, will be upgrading to an HVX in the next 6-9 months.

 

[Matt Gottshalk]

If you are going to spend that much, don't get a bogen. Look at the Cartoni Focus.

 

[Vence Vida]

I am absolutely in love with my Vinten Vision 3 systems.

 

[Macville]

Actually, that Bogen from everyone that I know that has it actually likes it. Unlike the cheaper Bogen stuff, it is a true fluid head and performs as such. In reality, I would recommend this setup instead: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...S552A_LS_55_2A_Two_stage_Aluminum_Tripod.html

I have been truly impressed with even the cheapest of libec heads--VERY smooth and much like a $2k+ head...

The Vinten Vision 3 is also very nice!

Matthew

 

[mark viducich]

go with the cartoni focus over the bogen 519 the focus has a 100mm bowl whereas the 519 is only 75mm and the focus has variable drag controls for the pan tilt and counter balance also it just feels way better when in use

 

[futureman]

Just though i would add my 2c... when i was at NAB, i got a chance to try out all of the video tripods, except cartoni, and i have to say that, for me, o'connor was head and shoulders above everyone else. the top of the line sachtler system felt stiff compared to oconnor... i have heard great things about cartoni, but you still may want to consider a used ocon.

 

[Tai Lyon]

I have the Cartoni Focus with Miller Solo VJ legs. I bought from Omega broadcast out of Austin, TX.
The setup is about $1650 but an amazing setup for the price. Danielle is great to work with. Make sure you get the adaptor plate from Cartoni so it fits the system properly ( no additional charge). I spent a lot of time researching fluid heads and legs and have had the chance to use Sachtler, Manafrotto and a couple of others. A friend who shoots 16mm and on the HVX200 recommended the Cartoni and he uses both Sachtler and Cartoni.