Need quick help on New Tripod purchase. Must buy today! on set at 6pm!

Richard J. Johnson

Richard J. Johnson

Joystick Member
My Davis & Sanford Provista tripod is finally gone. The entire head just snapped off. (never buy one of these) I am on set today and need to purchase A decent Tripod ASAP. I can't afford any more than $700.00 So it's either the Libec LS50 or the 503HDV. Unless there are some other options out there. I don't have much time to decide.

I'm running an HVX200-Letus Extreme-Redrock Shouldermount-with Manhattan LCD-and Indifocus Follow focus.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...503HDV_351MVB2K_351MVB2_Tripod_Legs_with.html

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/203652-REG/Libec_LS50_LS_50_Aluminum_Tripod_System.html
 
If it's only between those two, I'd actually go with the Manfrotto. Ground-level spreaders (like the Libec) are a PITA if you are anywhere but on a smooth floor. Mid-level spreaders are much more flexible.
 
C2V said:
If it's only between those two, I'd actually go with the Manfrotto. Ground-level spreaders (like the Libec) are a PITA if you are anywhere but on a smooth floor. Mid-level spreaders are much more flexible.
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I am not too familiar with the Tripod game. Those are the only 2 within that price range that get decent reviews in the places I looked. I don't know anything about sticks at all. I came from a $200.00 Tripod so $700 is A lot for me especially now. I really don't want to buy used because I would not know what to look for in pre-owned set up as far as flaws. I tried to squeeze my wife for an extra $500.00 but she was not hearing that.:crybaby:
 
I have had a Bogen for 7 years now and it is still working as it should. Granted, Aluminum is not as robust as carbon fiber, and mine has a couple of dings in it from use over the years, but carbon fiber adds to the cost. Aluminum may be more susceptible to dings, but it still holds the camera stable. The system you're considering will serve you well.

As for the spreaders, look at the listings again on B&H. Notice that the Libec has a spreader at ground-level... that's the flat, center piece that attaches to all three legs. Now look at the Manfrotto, and notice that the spreader is midway up the legs. A spreader adds stability, but if it is a ground-level spreader it will create problems outdoors.
 
I agree - go 503. I love my libec H38, but I skipped the legs and went for spreaderless miller solos. Floor spreaders are a pain.

Can you get just the libec head maybe and toss it on a set of sticks with a mid-level spreader or maybe no spreader at all?
 
C2V said:
I have had a Bogen for 7 years now and it is still working as it should. Granted, Aluminum is not as robust as carbon fiber, and mine has a couple of dings in it from use over the years, but carbon fiber adds to the cost. Aluminum may be more susceptible to dings, but it still holds the camera stable. The system you're considering will serve you well.

As for the spreaders, look at the listings again on B&H. Notice that the Libec has a spreader at ground-level... that's the flat, center piece that attaches to all three legs. Now look at the Manfrotto, and notice that the spreader is midway up the legs. A spreader adds stability, but if it is a ground-level spreader it will create problems outdoors.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the info. It helps tremendously.
 
Jeff Anderson said:
I agree - go 503. I love my libec H38, but I skipped the legs and went for spreaderless miller solos. Floor spreaders are a pain.

Can you get just the libec head maybe and toss it on a set of sticks with a mid-level spreader or maybe no spreader at all?
Click to expand...

I could. But What sticks? My rig is pushing 12 to 15 lbs.
 
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