Cartoni HiDV Fluid Head, opinions?

[david_p]

is this head similar to the Focus 100? i currently have a Vinten Vision 3 head but need to get another head for my son that is shooting with me. he's been using either a cheaper Libec sytem (LS-22DV) and sometimes with the Manfrotto 503DV head. im looking to improve but would like to try something different than another Vinten.

this HIDV model can be had for under $800.00 which aint band. cameras used on it would be either the HMC150 or an assortment of DSLR's.

im not ruling out buying a Sachtler for myself and letting my son have the Vinten. id rather not spend that money right now though but still an option.

i remember when i bought my Vision 3 that there were definitely lovers of the Cartoni Focus 100. id like to here from some Cartoni users.

thanks
david

 

[david_p]

ok, since there are no takers on the Cartoni then let me ask some of the Sachtler FSB-6/8 users a question.

way back when i bought my Vinten Vision 3 for my EX1 i recall that there were some EX1 users saying that the Sacthler camera plate would not go forward enough or was not long enough to get the EX1 to its center of gravity without buying the Sacthler longer camera plate which i recall being about $160 bucks or so. the EX1 is very back heavy and has to go way forward on my Vinten to balance properly but is doable. anyone have success mounting a raw EX1 on a stock FSB-6 or FSB-8.

i might just go ahead and buy the Sacthler if i though it would work good without having to buy the extra long camera plate.

anyone care to make a pitch for the Sachtler with lighter cameras like the EX1 or HMC150?

also if i dont think ill ever have heavier than an EX1 wiith a Lectrosonics unit and maybe a shotgun mic...do you think the FSB-6 is adequate enough or do you think i should go with the FSB-8? is the 5 steps plus zero on the "8" worth spending the extra money on?
david