Vinten Protouch Series

[emeticmedic]

I'm looking for a quality, fairly lightweight head to pair with Gitzo carbon fiber legs (something like the 3541 or used 1325, 1348 with 75mm bowl adapter) for travel purposes. I'm shopping cameras as well, but most likely will be buying the HPX-170, so I'm considering either going with the new Vinten Vision Blue head (which I've heard good things about and is in the right price range) or finding a used setup that would fit the bill.

I've come across a used Vinten Pro 10DC tripod and I've been looking for something in the way of reviews, but I'm having a hard time coming up with anything and I'm wondering of anyone has any experience with one. From what I've read, the Protouch series is Vinten's entry level series, redesigned from Manfrotto heads, but they have some nice features. Also most of the info out there is on the lower end Pro 5 or Pro 6 HDV, not on the Pro 10. On the other hand, I work in news and I'm used to working with Sachtler 18P heads with carbon fiber sticks (which would obviously be overkill for this application) so I don't want to waste money on something inferior. I've never been impressed with Manfrotto heads, and I'm also wary of the entry level stuff no matter what the brand name. I've also heard that Vinten can be a pain to service.

I've also looked at the Libec H38, which people seem to love, but of course it has no drag adjustment. Eventually, I'd like to invest in Sachtler, but as I said, for now I just want something light and dependable. Any input would be much appreciated.

 

[Mike Beckett]

As far as I am aware, the Pro10 from Vinten is virtually identical to the Manfrotto 516 head, apart from the colour of it. You can see reviews at B&H and other websites for that. Vinten just add a really good set of Vinten Poziloc legs. The newer Vinten Pro-6HDV model is based on the Manfrotto 503HDV mechanism, but has a different head design and a much-impoved side-load plate system. It's not entirely clear, but it seems as if the new Vision Blue has superseded the Pro-6.

Personally, I would avoid these (Manfrotto and Protouch) like the plague, unless I was on a budget.

I am awaiting delivery of the new Vinten Blue with mid-spreader. I did have a Sachtler DV6-SB, but it was overkill for my small HMC41, whereas the Blue is designed for smaller cameras. Time will tell if I made the right decision, but if all the reviews are to be believed, the Vision Blue is a miracle for its price. The fact that the VB head is a re-sprung and re-painted Vinten Vision 5 gives me a lot of hope.

I'm under no illusions about it being a lightweight setup. I used to have a Pro6HDV and the whole tripod weighed over 8kg (17 lbs), and the Blue is about the same. I have deliberately chosen this model because it has solid legs - I believe them to be more solid than the lower end Sachtler legs. I'm keeping my crappy 501HDV tripod for when I have to climb mountains and can't take the Vinten.

I've used Libec (LS-22 and LH37 heads), Vinten Pro6 (aka Manfrotto 503HDV), Sachtler DV6-SB and Manfrotto 501HDV heads. I really do not rate Libec very highly, despite what a lot of people say about it. The lack of adjustable drag is, well, a drag to me, and I do not find them to be very robust. The new Libec RS- series are a differnt story, apparently they are very good. I have no personal experience of them. Manfrotto - you get what you pay for.

Sachtler ENG gear is really good, but overkill for small cameras obviously. The FSB range is good for smaller cameras, but I fear that their legs aren't as good at this end of the range.

Then Vinten surprised me with the blue, and I've always wanted a "proper" Vinten! Just need to wait for it to arrive now... patience is a virtue!

 

[emeticmedic]

Thanks Mike. Exactly the kind of info I was looking for. I knew the Protouch was based on the Manfrotto heads, but couldn't find which one the Pro 10 was. That's very helpful info, and I think I'll take your advice and steer clear of it.

I've heard great things about the DV6-SB for medium size cameras like the hpx 170, and I've been keeping my eye out for a used one. I hear mixed things about the newer FSB models, mainly complaints about the flimsier feel to the aluminum legs than its predecessors. I prefer the carbon fiber setup with speedlocks myself, which I imagine would be far better quality.

While the Libec is limited by the lack of drag adjustments, I rarely use all the adjustments when I have them at my fingertips. That's just me. I've had limited experience with them, but people I know who use them regularly have no complaints. It seems that with Libec, since you aren't paying for the Sachtler or Vinten brand, you get what you pay for which is limited in its features, but still of good quality for a lower price tag.

For the price of the Vision Blue head, I'll probably end up going that way as well, at least for my travel setup. And I'll keep looking for the right Sachtler for everything else.

 

[Mike Beckett]

Yeah, I had the CF75 Speedlock legs with my Sachtler. Beautiful, just beautiful! At the time I didn't realise just how good they were, and while my wallet appreciated the sale, my heart didn't! This is only a hobby, so sometimes the money side of things can't be justified.

Libec does do what it does very well (if that makes sense). If you are happy with the default drag, then it can be great. To me, their better models start at the LS-38, but the lack of adjustable counterbalance spoils that for me, especially as it is rated for heavier cams. I also do a bit of wildlife video, and I need a higher drag when tracking beasties at full telephoto.

You will of course find people who are delighted with the Manfrotto 516 (or any other lesser head you can name), but my belief is they just haven't tried anything better, aren't that fussy, or just haven't hit the limitations yet.

 

[emeticmedic]

Makes sense. Thanks again for the info. While my application is a bit different than yours, I can tell I'd be unhappy with the Protouch or the Manfrotto. The Libec might work for me since I have less of a need to do fine moves on the long end of the lens, but still want a smooth head. Plus, this won't be my primary tripod, just for travel, so If I'm going to break the bank, I'd rather do it on my everyday gear.

You're absolutely right on the folks who haven't tried anything better. I've been spoiled working with high quality ENG gear for the last 10 years, so now that I'm investing in my own stuff, I can't settle for second rate.