Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System
- Price: $849.99
-
Mail In Rebate
-$125.00
(see details)
offer ends JUN 15 '13 - Price after Rebate: $724.99
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
- B&H # MA504HD546BK
- Mfr# 504HD,546BK
Product Highlights
- 16.5 lb (7.5kg) Load Capacity
- Aluminum Legs
- 18" to 66" Range
- 4-Step Counterbalance
- Ball-bearing Drag System
- Illuminated Bubble Level
- Mid-level Spreader
- Padded Tripod Bag
The Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System combines the innovative and stylish 504HD Fluid Video Head with the 2-stage aluminum 546B Pro Video Tripod--creating an ideal combo of affordability, stability, and smooth, precise control. This compact, versatile system was designed with independent video and DSLR shooters in mind, and provides the level of ergonomics and support required by today's small crews and one-man bands.
- 504HD Fluid Video Head
- The 504HD's patented Bridging Technology allows for a wider top plate and longer sliding plate that add stability and balance to a set of state-of-the-art professional features. A newly designed counterbalance system includes four presets--from 0 to 16.5 lbs--enabling proper balance for camera loads up to 19.8 lbs, while 3/8" threads in the top plate allow attachment of monitors, arms, and other accessories directly to the head.
- 546B Tripod
- This aluminum two-stage tripod combines stability and strength with affordability. Reaching a maximum height of 60.6" (154cm), the 546B is capable of supporting up to 44 lbs (20kg). Its spiked feet come with rubber overshoes, allowing setups on both smooth floors and uneven surfaces, while a newly designed mid-level telescopic spreader keeps the legs exactly where you need them.
| General | |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 16.5 lbs (7.5kg) |
| Maximum Height | 66.7" (169.4cm) |
| Maximum Height w/o Column Extended | N/A |
| Minimum Height | 17.9" (45.5cm) |
| Folded Length | 33.3" (84.6cm) |
| Leveling Bubble/Illuminated | Yes/Yes |
| Weight | 13.6 lbs (6.2kg) |
| Head | |
|---|---|
| Counter Balance System | 4-Step |
| Quick Release/Wedge Plate | Yes |
| Balance Plate | Sliding, 1/4" and 3/8" Screws |
| Tilt Drag | Continuous |
| Tilt Range | -60° / +90° |
| Tilt Lock | Independent |
| Spring Loaded Counter Balance | Continuous |
| Pan Range | 360° |
| Pan Lock | Independent |
| Legs | |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Head Attachment Fitting | 75mm Bowl |
| Leg Stages/Sections | 2/3 |
| Leg Lock Type | Flip Levers |
| Independent Leg Spread | Yes |
| Spiked/Retractable Feet | Yes, w/rubber covers |
| Center Brace | Mid-level Spreader |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 150 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
94%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Stable (89)
- Unfolds quickly (38)
- Lightweight (30)
- Smooth movement (26)
- Good footing (20)
Cons
- Heavy (48)
- Cumbersome (17)
- Difficult to adjust (5)
- Poor quality (4)
Best Uses
- Stabilization (61)
- Movies (57)
- Video (28)
- Weddings (16)
- Outdoors (15)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (132)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Film professional (62), Tech savvy (37), Aspiring film maker (26), Pro photographer (16), Semi-pro photographer (8)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great Tri-pod, but a travel warning!
This is a great tri-pod. I've throughly enjoyed using it, but I had an unfortunate experience when travelling to Ireland. There are several adjustment knobs near the head that like to come out in...Read complete review
This is a great tri-pod. I've throughly enjoyed using it, but I had an unfortunate experience when travelling to Ireland. There are several adjustment knobs near the head that like to come out in transit. These knobs range from controlling the head, to locking in the release plate. The knob that holds the release plate came out on my way back from Dublin, and unfortunately the TSA decided my bag needed to be searched, at which time the pieces that were rolling around in the bag, fell out. This has made it difficult to use the Tri-pod until I can find replacement parts, which so far, haven't been easy to track down.
My advice: when travelling with this Tri-pod, make sure to disassemble and secure as many pieces as possible. You don't want the TSA losing them during a search like they did with mine.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Decent Head, Mediocre Legs
The 504HD head is an interesting entry into the world of prosumer video heads. It's larger than many of its cousins, such as the 503 and 501, and larger than the small Sachtler heads...Read complete review
The 504HD head is an interesting entry into the world of prosumer video heads. It's larger than many of its cousins, such as the 503 and 501, and larger than the small Sachtler heads that outprice it. This size offers a wider base for a camera to rest, but this hasn't actually ever been a request I've heard. The base has two 3/8" borings for screwing in accessories, such as an arm with an onboard monitor. A 1/4-20 bushing can be used to adapt. This is useful for taking the weight of a smaller camera, such as a DSLR, however, since the screws are side-mounted, a heavy arm balanced left of the 12-o-clock position will give you constant trouble as the arm unscrews itself. I can also imagine mounting smaller LED light panels here, with the same warning about positioning. The head features adjustable pan and tilt drag with a welcome numeric system, versus the simple +/- of the 503 and 501 heads. Like the 503, the pan fluid drag knob is located in a difficult to reach area inside of the head. Dialing wands may be necessary for those with burly fingers. Still, the drag seems to work well enough for a head of this price-range. In fact, all in all, I'd say this is very decent head at this price point.
The weak link in this kit, however, is the legs. The 546B can't decide what to be. As a result it features some of the worst of all worlds. The legs aren't terribly sturdy, nor do they offer a great deal of extension, yet, they're heavier than you would want. I don't mind weight in a set of legs -- I regularly work with Ronford or O'Connor legs with a Mitchell base -- but weight without the feeling of sturdy, security is bothersome. The latches on the legs are not ideally designed. On a new set of sticks, they took so much force to open, that somebody had to hold the sticks down every time we flipped the levers. This might have improved with continued use. The entire unit constantly had a rickety feel, which I believe was mainly due to the worst element: the mid-level spreaders. I am not a fan of mid-level spreaders, ever. Though I've seen some that have earned my grudging respect. I prefer to have ground spreaders, or no spreaders. These mid-level spreaders rattled around and flexed. The locking/unlocking mechanism to spread them out was awkward and always felt as though it would break the spreaders. As a matter of fact, three days into production with this kit, the mid-level spreaders DID break, and nobody could figure out how. The metal where the screw which holds the spreaders onto the legs actually cracked in half. This led me to believe that the spreaders didn't just FEEL dodgey, but WERE in fact dodgey. Folding the sticks required negotiating with the spreaders a little more than one would hope.
It's entirely possible that the 546B legs with a ground spreader would have made quite a different impression on me.
All in all, I feel that this kit exists as a compromise. If a filmmaker or videographer wants something with a little more functionality than the 503, but isn't quite ready to drop the extra dollars on the 504 with the 535 or 536 Carbon fiber legs, then this is their option. Personally, though, I believe that a decent tripod will outlast your camera for some time, so why not invest in something better than a compromise?
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 150 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Smooth Head
Cons
- Cumbersome
Best Uses
- Movies
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
The tripod head is beautiful to use and is well worth the extra $ compared to the cheaper models. The tripod legs on the other hand are clunky and not very user friendly. I wish I would have dished out some more $ for the better legs. How hard would it have been for Manfrotto to add some numbers on the side of the tripod to help measure out the extension of the legs. In summary: buy the head, but upgrade the legs.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
We use this tripod for live events including sports and performing arts. Works great, solid, stable.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tri-pod surprised me when I received it from B and H photo, also having great deals on different packages. Very solid and a huge.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Very good product
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Design
- Good Stability
- Sturdy
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this tripod system for music videos, short films, and other video work. It is very well built and the design is very thought out. Manfrotto thought of every aspect when they made this, from the illuminated bubble head to the detachable mid-spreader. This tripod has made a visible difference on my productions.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Stabilization
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Use with Canon XF300. Sturdy, well built, easy to set up, smooth pan up & down
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Easy to use and solid.
I recommand this bundle
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Female Mounting Threads
- Good Stability
- Light Up Bubble Level
- Long Release Plate
- Smooth movement
- Thick Carrying Bag
- Variable Resistance
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Independent Productions
- Movies
- Online Videos
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I shoot with a Canon 60D and a Digital Juice Master Rig (shoulder rig). This tripod works wonderfully with both! Here are my pros and cons in accordance with how *I use it:
PROS:
+ Movements are incredibly smooth
+ Variable resistance adjustments for pan/tilt is extremely useful
+ Long release plate = allows secure fastening of my shoulder rig
+ 3/8" female threads are useful for mounting my Marshall field monitor w/Pearstone articulating arm
+ Strong tripod handle and is enough, BUT, I do plan on buying a 2nd so I have more to hold onto in for even more control
+ Light-up bubble level is perfect for setting the head
+ Rubber feat detach to use spike feet (I found this particularly useful when shooting in snowy and un-level ground)
+ Carrying bag is high quality
CONS:
- Heavy (NOTE: I don't ultimately regard this as a bad thing, as I purchased it partially for how sturdy/heavy it is, but 14 lbs is a lot to lug around after a while)
- If you plan on getting heavier equipment than what this head can handle, you'll have to upgrade to the next best Manfrotto tripod head (again, not a problem for me, but it is a possibility for others)
It's an amazing piece of equipment for what it costs. I don't suspect I'll ever need to upgrade either the tripod or head anytime soon (if ever). If you can afford it, buy it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Pearstone Articulating Arm
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- SMOOTH
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tripod is strong and sturdy, but a little bit clunky. It is a little tough to lock and unlock the tripod legs, but I am guessing that's because it is brand new. Also, I found the piece in the middle that connects all the legs is a little wobbly; not quite sure why. Overall, I am quite impressed with how solid is feels and how smooth it is. Plus, it comes with a nice carrying bag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I really loved this tripod. Honestly its probably more then I need for most of my projects, but it was very sturdy and smooth. My only complaint that keeps it from being 5 stars is that the spreader has a bad habit of jamming up or twisting in ways that make it difficult to adjust.
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this tripod every week filming staged events like plays, concerts, speakers who are quite mobile on stage. Using my Sony camera, I realize the 504B head is a little overkill for my light camera, but it makes the movement extremely smooth. I got the unit in the combination with the Manfrotto RC Pan Bar EX Remote Control for LANC Cameras and with the Manfrotto 509HLV Pan Bar that comes with the unit, I acutally have two handles that allows me to have sure control and easy multi-action (like zoom and rotating camera angle) simultaneously. Great choice.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Cumbersome
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this tripod shooting video. The video head makes movement smooth and easy. The tension controls are amazing. I havent found any downsides. Highly recommended for pro quality stability and movement.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This is my 2nd Manfrotto tripod and I continue to be a happy customer.
I love the adjustable head with lighted level - it makes for very quick and easy adjustments on the fly.
I'm also very happy with the stability and sturdiness of the legs, although the release switches do take a little getting used to.
Overall very happy with this tripod and would highly recommend it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Solid, love everything about it. except for the supporter on the bottom. it broke on the first day we used it.everything else though is amazing. still give it 5 stars :)made an unboxing video too![*]
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
The truly fluid head movement is far superior to other so called "fluid heads." The whole thing is easy to set up and level: a real bargain. Prior to getting this tripod and head, I had dispaired that to get similar proformance meant spending thousands. This package is a great deal, especially with it including the carry bag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy Controls
- Fluid
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Great tripod, very fluid and smooth. Can handle the weight of my c100 with a 70-200 on it with ease.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Event video
- Movies
- Sports Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
We have more than a dozen tripods and video/photo head assemblies and this combination beats them all. Easy to setup, easy to transport. If you are new to the video game and you want to make an investment you can count on getting a solid return from, this is the setup for you
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I took it to Ethiopia for a movie production from the NY superstore. I am glad that everybody likes it, since we're using it almost every day it's easy to fold and use it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Little Awkward
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This is a profesional grade tripod and head t an affordable price! Well worth the money!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Cumbersome
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tripod is great!
My only complaint that it is a bit heavy. I use it as a base for a Jib and don't have any problems. The head is great and smooth to control, I found it very easy to get the sweet spot.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 150 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
94%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Stable (89)
- Unfolds quickly (38)
- Lightweight (30)
- Smooth movement (26)
- Good footing (20)
Cons
- Heavy (48)
- Cumbersome (17)
- Difficult to adjust (5)
- Poor quality (4)
Best Uses
- Stabilization (61)
- Movies (57)
- Video (28)
- Weddings (16)
- Outdoors (15)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (132)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Film professional (62), Tech savvy (37), Aspiring film maker (26), Pro photographer (16), Semi-pro photographer (8)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great Tri-pod, but a travel warning!
This is a great tri-pod. I've throughly enjoyed using it, but I had an unfortunate experience when travelling to Ireland. There are several adjustment knobs near the head that like to come out in...Read complete review
This is a great tri-pod. I've throughly enjoyed using it, but I had an unfortunate experience when travelling to Ireland. There are several adjustment knobs near the head that like to come out in transit. These knobs range from controlling the head, to locking in the release plate. The knob that holds the release plate came out on my way back from Dublin, and unfortunately the TSA decided my bag needed to be searched, at which time the pieces that were rolling around in the bag, fell out. This has made it difficult to use the Tri-pod until I can find replacement parts, which so far, haven't been easy to track down.
My advice: when travelling with this Tri-pod, make sure to disassemble and secure as many pieces as possible. You don't want the TSA losing them during a search like they did with mine.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Decent Head, Mediocre Legs
The 504HD head is an interesting entry into the world of prosumer video heads. It's larger than many of its cousins, such as the 503 and 501, and larger than the small Sachtler heads...Read complete review
The 504HD head is an interesting entry into the world of prosumer video heads. It's larger than many of its cousins, such as the 503 and 501, and larger than the small Sachtler heads that outprice it. This size offers a wider base for a camera to rest, but this hasn't actually ever been a request I've heard. The base has two 3/8" borings for screwing in accessories, such as an arm with an onboard monitor. A 1/4-20 bushing can be used to adapt. This is useful for taking the weight of a smaller camera, such as a DSLR, however, since the screws are side-mounted, a heavy arm balanced left of the 12-o-clock position will give you constant trouble as the arm unscrews itself. I can also imagine mounting smaller LED light panels here, with the same warning about positioning. The head features adjustable pan and tilt drag with a welcome numeric system, versus the simple +/- of the 503 and 501 heads. Like the 503, the pan fluid drag knob is located in a difficult to reach area inside of the head. Dialing wands may be necessary for those with burly fingers. Still, the drag seems to work well enough for a head of this price-range. In fact, all in all, I'd say this is very decent head at this price point.
The weak link in this kit, however, is the legs. The 546B can't decide what to be. As a result it features some of the worst of all worlds. The legs aren't terribly sturdy, nor do they offer a great deal of extension, yet, they're heavier than you would want. I don't mind weight in a set of legs -- I regularly work with Ronford or O'Connor legs with a Mitchell base -- but weight without the feeling of sturdy, security is bothersome. The latches on the legs are not ideally designed. On a new set of sticks, they took so much force to open, that somebody had to hold the sticks down every time we flipped the levers. This might have improved with continued use. The entire unit constantly had a rickety feel, which I believe was mainly due to the worst element: the mid-level spreaders. I am not a fan of mid-level spreaders, ever. Though I've seen some that have earned my grudging respect. I prefer to have ground spreaders, or no spreaders. These mid-level spreaders rattled around and flexed. The locking/unlocking mechanism to spread them out was awkward and always felt as though it would break the spreaders. As a matter of fact, three days into production with this kit, the mid-level spreaders DID break, and nobody could figure out how. The metal where the screw which holds the spreaders onto the legs actually cracked in half. This led me to believe that the spreaders didn't just FEEL dodgey, but WERE in fact dodgey. Folding the sticks required negotiating with the spreaders a little more than one would hope.
It's entirely possible that the 546B legs with a ground spreader would have made quite a different impression on me.
All in all, I feel that this kit exists as a compromise. If a filmmaker or videographer wants something with a little more functionality than the 503, but isn't quite ready to drop the extra dollars on the 504 with the 535 or 536 Carbon fiber legs, then this is their option. Personally, though, I believe that a decent tripod will outlast your camera for some time, so why not invest in something better than a compromise?
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 150 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Smooth Head
Cons
- Cumbersome
Best Uses
- Movies
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
The tripod head is beautiful to use and is well worth the extra $ compared to the cheaper models. The tripod legs on the other hand are clunky and not very user friendly. I wish I would have dished out some more $ for the better legs. How hard would it have been for Manfrotto to add some numbers on the side of the tripod to help measure out the extension of the legs. In summary: buy the head, but upgrade the legs.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
We use this tripod for live events including sports and performing arts. Works great, solid, stable.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tri-pod surprised me when I received it from B and H photo, also having great deals on different packages. Very solid and a huge.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Very good product
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Design
- Good Stability
- Sturdy
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this tripod system for music videos, short films, and other video work. It is very well built and the design is very thought out. Manfrotto thought of every aspect when they made this, from the illuminated bubble head to the detachable mid-spreader. This tripod has made a visible difference on my productions.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Stabilization
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Use with Canon XF300. Sturdy, well built, easy to set up, smooth pan up & down
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Easy to use and solid.
I recommand this bundle
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Female Mounting Threads
- Good Stability
- Light Up Bubble Level
- Long Release Plate
- Smooth movement
- Thick Carrying Bag
- Variable Resistance
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Independent Productions
- Movies
- Online Videos
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I shoot with a Canon 60D and a Digital Juice Master Rig (shoulder rig). This tripod works wonderfully with both! Here are my pros and cons in accordance with how *I use it:
PROS:
+ Movements are incredibly smooth
+ Variable resistance adjustments for pan/tilt is extremely useful
+ Long release plate = allows secure fastening of my shoulder rig
+ 3/8" female threads are useful for mounting my Marshall field monitor w/Pearstone articulating arm
+ Strong tripod handle and is enough, BUT, I do plan on buying a 2nd so I have more to hold onto in for even more control
+ Light-up bubble level is perfect for setting the head
+ Rubber feat detach to use spike feet (I found this particularly useful when shooting in snowy and un-level ground)
+ Carrying bag is high quality
CONS:
- Heavy (NOTE: I don't ultimately regard this as a bad thing, as I purchased it partially for how sturdy/heavy it is, but 14 lbs is a lot to lug around after a while)
- If you plan on getting heavier equipment than what this head can handle, you'll have to upgrade to the next best Manfrotto tripod head (again, not a problem for me, but it is a possibility for others)
It's an amazing piece of equipment for what it costs. I don't suspect I'll ever need to upgrade either the tripod or head anytime soon (if ever). If you can afford it, buy it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Pearstone Articulating Arm
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- SMOOTH
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tripod is strong and sturdy, but a little bit clunky. It is a little tough to lock and unlock the tripod legs, but I am guessing that's because it is brand new. Also, I found the piece in the middle that connects all the legs is a little wobbly; not quite sure why. Overall, I am quite impressed with how solid is feels and how smooth it is. Plus, it comes with a nice carrying bag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I really loved this tripod. Honestly its probably more then I need for most of my projects, but it was very sturdy and smooth. My only complaint that keeps it from being 5 stars is that the spreader has a bad habit of jamming up or twisting in ways that make it difficult to adjust.
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this tripod every week filming staged events like plays, concerts, speakers who are quite mobile on stage. Using my Sony camera, I realize the 504B head is a little overkill for my light camera, but it makes the movement extremely smooth. I got the unit in the combination with the Manfrotto RC Pan Bar EX Remote Control for LANC Cameras and with the Manfrotto 509HLV Pan Bar that comes with the unit, I acutally have two handles that allows me to have sure control and easy multi-action (like zoom and rotating camera angle) simultaneously. Great choice.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Cumbersome
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this tripod shooting video. The video head makes movement smooth and easy. The tension controls are amazing. I havent found any downsides. Highly recommended for pro quality stability and movement.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This is my 2nd Manfrotto tripod and I continue to be a happy customer.
I love the adjustable head with lighted level - it makes for very quick and easy adjustments on the fly.
I'm also very happy with the stability and sturdiness of the legs, although the release switches do take a little getting used to.
Overall very happy with this tripod and would highly recommend it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Solid, love everything about it. except for the supporter on the bottom. it broke on the first day we used it.everything else though is amazing. still give it 5 stars :)made an unboxing video too![*]
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
The truly fluid head movement is far superior to other so called "fluid heads." The whole thing is easy to set up and level: a real bargain. Prior to getting this tripod and head, I had dispaired that to get similar proformance meant spending thousands. This package is a great deal, especially with it including the carry bag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy Controls
- Fluid
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Great tripod, very fluid and smooth. Can handle the weight of my c100 with a 70-200 on it with ease.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Event video
- Movies
- Sports Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
We have more than a dozen tripods and video/photo head assemblies and this combination beats them all. Easy to setup, easy to transport. If you are new to the video game and you want to make an investment you can count on getting a solid return from, this is the setup for you
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I took it to Ethiopia for a movie production from the NY superstore. I am glad that everybody likes it, since we're using it almost every day it's easy to fold and use it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Little Awkward
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This is a profesional grade tripod and head t an affordable price! Well worth the money!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Cumbersome
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tripod is great!
My only complaint that it is a bit heavy. I use it as a base for a Jib and don't have any problems. The head is great and smooth to control, I found it very easy to get the sweet spot.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Spreaders & Dollies
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