Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head
The Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head is specifically for the latest DV camcorders used by documentary and industrial videographers, and can support cameras up to 22 lb. Equipped with fluid cartridges, which provides continuous adjustable drag control. This system gives quite a wide range of friction control down to "zero drag" and operates on both pan and tilt axis. Other features include separate pan and tilt locking mechanism, a fixed counter balance spring of 16.5 lb load capacity at a center of gravity of 5-inches and a built-in bubble level.
- Continuous adjustable pan and tilt friction knob (from 0 to max level)
- Separate pan and tilt locks
- Sliding quick-release plate
- Built-in leveling bubble
- Maximum payload of: 22.0 lb
| Load Capacity | 22 lb |
| Diameter/Thread | 3/8" Female Thread |
| Counter Balance System | Fixed Spring |
| Counter Balance Range | 16.5 lb |
| Center of Gravity | 5.0" |
| Quick Release/Wedge Plate | Yes, (Cat #3272) |
| Balance Plate | Sliding, 2x 1/4"-20 and 2x 3/8" Screws |
| Tilt Drag | Continuously adjustable from 0 to max |
| Tilt Range | -60/+90° |
| Tilt Lock | Yes |
| Spring Loaded Counter Bal | Continuously adjustable from 0 to max |
| Pan Range | 360° |
| Pan Lock | Yes |
| Leveling Bubble/Illuminated | Yes, Non |
| Temperature Range | Not Specified |
| Weight | 4.4 lb |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 16 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (6)
- Improves performance (6)
- Professional quality (6)
- Highly compatible (4)
- Stable (4)
Cons
- Heavy (5)
Best Uses
- Independent films (4)
- Stabilization (4)
- Complex projects (3)
- In the studio (3)
- Movies (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Business owner (4), Semi-pro photographer (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (7)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 16 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-16
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Heavy
- Limited Compatibility
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
This product was recommended by BH tech after explaining the use which is for astronomy. This product is a manfrotto, so you know you are getting something of excellent quality. The only problem with the head is the tilt, it only tilts 60 up and we needed one that will tilt 90. [...] took the item back. [...]
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
I have used a 516 in the past with heavier cameras and was not happy. When used with a lighter camera it works great. I just shot in 20 mph winds with my AF100 and the shot was rock solid.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Church Service
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
This product was bought to replace a video head that had broken. It is much sturdier and really just what we needed for the camera that we use at our church services. The two handles make it easy to move and adjust as needed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
Purchased a matched pair of thes for both cameras and tripods. Rock solid, good panning and smooth actions all around. Also is easy to fine tune adjustments and balance.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Independent Films
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
We are a small audio video production company. We use a Canon XLH1 camera. This head is perfect with it. Very smooth.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
Use mainly with Sony VX2100 and Panasonic AG-DVX100b cameras. Even works great with Sony XDCamEX. Easy to assemble on legs. Intuitive drag and lock controls.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Weddings
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
Spend the extra money to get this head. It is well worth it. Smooth pans and effortless tilts... This tripod head is reliable and will get the job done without you thinking about your gear...
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Difficult To Adjust
Best Uses
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
I use this for shooting short films and video, it is a great reliable entry level head, nice and smooth with the camera mounted. The only drag is the fluid drag adjustment for panning, which is located under the plate and is a bit hard to reach.
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Locks In Tight
- Looks impressive
- Smooth Movement
- Smooth pans tilts
- Supports a lot of weight
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
I put a 5.5 pound Sony Z7 on this head with 2 wireless receivers + shotgun mic and the unit does not even flinch. 2 zero drag adjustments (pan & tilt) make for quick and jerk-less pans. It's bigger than I thought and two handles make for more convenience. 2 locking levers lock down the unit tight.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Reducing Noise (ISO Reduction)
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
I have an hvx200 and plan on buying a crane and this tripod head can handle the weight. Super heavy duty and soo smoooth I've never used a fluid head before and I would never go back.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
- Reducing Noise (ISO Reduction)
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
I run a small TV production studio. I have been using the 516 for several years. One 516 is on a Varizoom pedestal and the others on Manfrotto tripods. In all applications the 516s offer excellent stability and range of motion. Camera shake and jitter are eliminated (especially important for HD work). I highly recommend this product!
Pros
- 2 extendable handles
- Price price price
- Sliding plate
- Very smooth start stop
Cons
- A bit bulky
- Pan tension hard to reach
Best Uses
- Great on Dolly shots
- Tracking of people moving
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
We bought the 516 heads to replace our older Manfrotto 3063's... and what a difference! Having the fluid drag on both Pan and tilt makes using this head a real joy - especially for those long corporate stage presentations. We used the 516's for the first time at a 3-day conference, and they preformed beautifully. I would highly recommend.
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
Very smooth, I wish it could tilt all the way, but still pretty decent.
Pros
- Very stable
Cons
Best Uses
- Event video
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
We use this fluid head for wedding work,and it is truly a very smooth operating unit. It provides very stable shots for extreme telephoto shots with a 15lb DSR 400 camera from the back of the church. I know I could have spent more, but don't think the higher priced heads would be that much better. I am very happy and would recommend it to anyone.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
This fluid head is really, really "fluid". The movement you can achieve is beautiful and flawless. The spring action/tension is absolutely perfect for our Sony Z7. This product is a real gem!
Pros
- Durable
- Good Stability
- Looks very good
- Love telescopic arm
- Well built
Cons
- Drag too ambiguous
- Heavy
- Want more definite drag
Best Uses
- Movies
- Special Events
- Sports
- Weddings
Comments about Manfrotto 516 Pro Video Fluid Head:
After working for years on very nice Satchler fluid heads, this one certainly can't exceed my desires, but has certainly shocked my expectations!
- How long have you owned it:
- More than six months
Displaying reviews 1-16
Quick Release Plates
- Price: $71.95
- GBP 45.48
Head Accessories
- Price: $209.89
- GBP 132.67
What's in the Box
- Quick-Release Camera Plate (#3272)
- 2x Pan Bar Handles
- 2-Year Warranty + Additional 3-Years after Registering Online or by Mail
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