counter balanced tripod head for 1.3 lbs camcorder?

[highdefvideo]

Is there a tripod head that can counter balance a video camera that weighs only 1.3 lbs?

I think it is lower weight than most counter balanced head are designed for. In other words, the head would tend to return to center position because the spring is too strong for the camcorder.

 

[David W. Jones]

Yes, my Oconnor 1030D will.

 

[Run&Gun]

You can also do the 'ole trick of just adding weight to the camera or plate.

 

[TheDingo]

I've had no problems using a Sachtler FSB-4 head with small cameras that are about the same weight that you are dealing with. This head is useful with cameras from 1.5 - 8.5 lbs.

 

[highdefvideo]

Yes, my Oconnor 1030D will.

This is nice stuff in a price range I cannot justified. I only shoot video as a hobby.
But thanks for the tip. At least I can dream about it.

 

[David W. Jones]

This is nice stuff in a price range I cannot justified. I only shoot video as a hobby.
But thanks for the tip. At least I can dream about it.

That is why it is always important to include budgetary guidelines in your posts when looking for gear. :beer:

 

[Bruce Watson]

Is there a tripod head that can counter balance a video camera that weighs only 1.3 lbs?

Sachtler Ace M

 

[highdefvideo]

Sachtler Ace M

This has a 5-step counterbalance adjustment. Do I have to worry about my camcorder falling in between two steps and cannot be balanced?

 

[David W. Jones]

This has a 5-step counterbalance adjustment. Do I have to worry about my camcorder falling in between two steps and cannot be balanced?

That can be an issue.

I prefer a fully variable setup over a staged setup.

I have a Libec which is staged, and I only used it for locked off shots now.

 

[ozmorphasis]

Cartoni Focus HD is continuous.

 

[TheDingo]

Both Libec ( RH25D / RH45D ) and Vinten ( Vision Blue / Vision Blue 3 ) make heads that have continuously variable counter-balance.

 

[Bruce Watson]

This has a 5-step counterbalance adjustment. Do I have to worry about my camcorder falling in between two steps and cannot be balanced?

Depends on how well balanced you insist that it be. If you want perfect balance no matter what, it might not be sufficient for you. On the other hand, I use mine with a tiny Canon handycam and it works just fine for what I'm doing. But I either lock it down or keep a hand on the bar. I don't expect, or need for it to be perfect.