Trying to figure out new tripod setup

T

Th3RadMan

Member
I have looked around and found a few choices that may suit my needs.
First of all I was wondering if there is a reason to get a "multi-leg" tripod over a carbon fiber one such as a gitzo.
I was looking at these 2 sets of legs and I was wondering if there is any real difference between the 2.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/683565-REG/Manfrotto_546B_546B_Pro_Video_Tripod.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/683565-REG/Manfrotto_546B_546B_Pro_Video_Tripod.html
I was also looking at the higher end carbon fiber gitzos such as this onehttp://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...T4542LS_GT4542LS_6x_4_SECTION_SYSTEMATIC.html
and I was wondering if it would be stable with a slider on top. Also, how would i mount a half ball fluid head on it since it has the screw in the middle.
This is what I would plan on using in my system
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/683559-REG/Manfrotto_504HD_504HD_Fluid_Video_Head.html
Finally, what about a kit like this one? How would it compare?
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/601884-REG/Sachtler_0375_0375_FSB_4_Carbon_Fiber.html
 
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Hi, Tripod costs are all over the place. Of the two you have selected, I reckon the Manfrotto is likely to be more solid (spreader). I have an 028 which is very solid, weighs about 10 pounds, extends to about 80 inches. I love the geared center column.

I do a lot of events. The usual scenario is you get set up and 2 minutes before the start, five TV guys move in front of you. The extra height saves the day. I always bring a step stool and can tower above them.

Aside from something solid, as you probably know, you need a good quality fluid head. I use a 501HDV which has a bit too much starting friction but I compensate by hang two pan bars on the tripod. Seems to make things smoother. If I could afford a tripod with two gear wheels, I would try out one of these.

I have been researching sliders for on year. Rigwheels seems the way to go but I need to hear from people who have actually used their products. Seems to me a good idea to have say a three foot length and I would use two tripods not one.

Depends of course on the weight of the camcorder. You did not say which camera/camcorder you will be using.

I like the idea of the Microwheels Stage 3 (upper and lower wheels). I want to do horizontal and vertical and I also want straight track and curved track. Seems pointless to not make things as flexible as possible.

A variable speed motor that slows down gracefully with no jerks would be nice.

Anyone able to elaborate on siders? To me, they add a lot to many otherwise boring interviews where people drone on and on. A circular track at least lets you show different sides of the people being interviewed.
 
Ok, thanks. I am usinga Canon 70d, so not too heavy. I would suspect the sachtlerwould be stronger because of its carbon fiber.
 
Th3RadMan said:
Ok, thanks. I am usinga Canon 70d, so not too heavy. I would suspect the sachtlerwould be stronger because of its carbon fiber.
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All of the tripod legs you listed have a max payload of 44 pounds, except the Gitzo which is 55 pounds.
 
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Well all of the tripods on your list are 75mm bowls, which may be limiting if at some point you want to upgrade to a heavier camera requiring a 100mm bowl. Sachtler makes a good product, but the head you have picked has a max payload of around 8 pounds, which also could be limiting with future camera upgrades.

I have the 504HD head, but we only use it with light cameras when mounted to a light weight Kessler Pocket Dolly setup.
 
What would be a nice so for heavier camera setups? That is around 2k, unless ifi will benefit a lot spending a bit more
 
Th3RadMan said:
not really, just being me I like it a lot more getting new stuff, also with warranty, I feel a bit more secure
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No problem, just trying to stretch your budget farther by suggesting a higher quality used tripod/head than the quality you can afford new. I'm a big fan of saving money buying high end used gear that will last a lifetime, and using the savings toward a nicer camera every couple of years.

For what it's worth, a very high quality tripod will last 50 or more years when taken care of.
 
I am in the same boat and have looked at all the options. I currently have a Manfrotto 501 and am upgrading soon. The tripod I feel is the best of all worlds and is best designed for DSLR small rig film makers is the Sachtler Ace L carbon fiber tripod with Fluid head. If you need spreaders look at their other versions, but if you want fast, sturdy, light, smooth and have lots of portability and versatility while shooting, I feel this is a winner!

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/898213-REG/Sachtler_1013_System_Ace_L_TT.html
 
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