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Tripod clarification
There was an earlier thread inquiring about tripods for the DVX100, with praise for the Manfrotto 503 and 501. Three questions:
1. What is the difference between the 503 and 501?
2. How do they compare to the Vinten Vision (#3, I believe), which I played with at DV Expo West last year and was extremely impressed with in terms of smoothness and stability (not quite as impressed with its size/weight)?
3. Someone mentioned the Miller Solo system… any other considerations in addition to the three brands mentioned above? Camera to be used primarily for interviews and B-roll, and while I won’t be flinging it back and forth (as though covering a hockey game or tennis match), I do want head and legs that will allow a nice, solid ease in and park / ease out feel to the pan and tilt. Also, will likely travel (by air) this rig a fair amount.
Thanks all, Larry M
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5 Replies
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You might do better to simply check them out at a camera shop- tripod fit is kinda personal for most shooters. If you’re in L.A. or NYC or similar large city you shouldn’t have any problem doing this.
Noah
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How about East Lansing, Michigan! No pro shops around here…
Maybe my question was more along the lines of “I liked the Vinten Vision 3 in several ways”, but wondered how the others compared (cost, weight, capabilities, etc.). I know the Vintens tend to cost more, but that cost might be worth it if I can cleanly and predictably ease in to a stop, ease out into a pan or tilt, and have sticks that won’t flex while the head is in operation. But size and weight (due to a lot of travel) are equally important, as is cost.
I can’t get to DV Expo West this year to compare… another reason I threw it out there.
Thanks, Larry M
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I’m the guy who posted the original query. I ended up getting the Bogen / Manfrotto 3051 Tripod Legs with a 501 head. Well, I don’t know the exact difference between the 501 and 503, but I couldn’t be happier with the 501.
The tripod is sturdy enough for the DVX and goes up pretty high if you need it. Plus it’s light and compact enought to travel with. I bought a cheapo canvas case and checked it as luggage on a recent flight, no problems. It was only about 400 bucks, but you get what you pay for, I’m sure you’ll get a smoother, sturdier tripod if you want to throw down the cash. -
Speaking as someone who owns the 501 and the 503 I have to say that I really don’t notice the difference.
I’m sure there’s something about the 503 that makes it “better” but it’s not something I can really put my finger on. I suppose it might be a little smoother, but I suspect that you’d notice that more with a heavier camera. With a camera the size of the 100A I’ve had no problems with either one.
And I do love them both. They’ve served me very well. Extra so considering the reasonable price they cost compared to larger heads.
Legs depend more on personal preferences, but I went with the 525MVB and have been very happy with those as well.
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I run the 501 also. It is a good head. I liked the one before the 501 that got discontinued and they went with the 501. But I got th e501 and I’m happy with it….. ONE
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