Need a different tripod... maybe?

JoeFowler

JoeFowler

Well-known member
I'm upgrading from my DVX to a DSLR and am trying to decide whether I should keep using my Manfrotto 501 or is there a better (ie. smaller, lighter, but not very expensive) option for video.

Any suggestions, or should I just stick with what I have?

Thanks!
 
Anything smaller and lighter is going to be a step down from the 501, even though the 501 is certainly not the best out there. The 501 is the head, though, and says nothing of the actual tripod. Which sticks do you have?
 
Manfrotto 3221WN... got them with the head. I've used them for 6 years with my DVX and been very happy. I'm trying to decide if I should include them when I sell my DVX (to sweeten the deal). Also, I'm upgrading to a DSLR so I can bring it on backpacking trips so I'm hoping I can find a lighter tripod solution. Took the DVX and 501/3221WN on a couple hikes and it sucked!

Any thoughts?
 
Not much information is available on those legs since they're discontinued, though from pictures I'm not sure you'll find anything that compact that will work perfectly smoothly. I have a 190XDB from Manfrotto. It is certainly compact and lightweight, and fits perfectly into the tripod sling on my Porta Brace BK-N1... but it's not the sturdiest. Fine for stills, but with the 501 it's hard to keep from slightly wobbling during pans and tilts. It's workable, but not my fist choice at all. I seldom use it, in fact. It'll work fairly will if I shoot with my T2i as a bare camera, but once I add the rig (rails, matte box, follow focus), there's no way.

As for the head, the 501 is a decent head. Sure, there are much more stable heads out there, but I have had a 501 for years and i still use it. One of these days, I'll invest in a new 504...
 
Joe,

I have the same head and legs as you for about the same amount of time. It is a very versitile setup as you can get very close to the ground and the legs work well on uneven surfaces. But I agree, it is heavy and every ounce counts on long hikes. Mine also has the 1/2 ball leveler and the whole rig tops out at about 11.8 lbs. I have looked extensively for a replacement rig for smoother pans and tilts that is lighter and can hold a heavier load as I have an igus slider. So far what I have found in my price range is the 504 head and the 535 carbon fiber legs at $765 from B&H http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/735035-REG/Manfrotto__504HD_VIDEO_FLUID_HEAD.html However, it weighs in at 11.5 lbs so I am still searching.
 
Last edited:
I think I may just stick with what I have and get a little Gorilla Pod for hiking and such. Thanks for the help guys.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top