Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head
Redesigned to accommodate evolving video technology, the Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head now features improved drag on both axes and switchable counterbalance for the latest ultralight high-definition camcorders. In addition, controls have been repositioned and reshaped for superior operational ergonomics. A sliding camera plate helps balance uneven payloads due to outboard batteries or matte boxes, dual rosettes permit left- or two-handed pan arm configurations, and the rear-mounted spirit level facilitates rapid setups. Naturally the 501HDV includes the unbeatable Bogen/Manfrotto 2-year warranty with an additional 3-years after registering online or by mail.
- Head features a secondary security lock so you can't accidentally release the plate (and camera). The lock stops the quick release lever from opening fully.
- Special Teflon-coated discs (used instead of fluid cartridges) ensure smooth movement and consistent friction of the head.
- With a separate lock on each axis of movement, this head can be precisely adjusted, and panning/tracking can be achieved on any axis.
- Two separate axes of movement - panoramic rotation and front-rear tilt
- The pan bar uses the principle of the lever to use less effort to support and move the weight of your camera and to iron out any jarring or shaking movement between your arm and the camera. Ideal for equipment used in movement - especially videocameras and sport optics / spotting scopes - but also very popular among sports and nature photographers who use long heavy lenses and need to smoothly track moving subjects.
| Load Capacity | 13.2 lbs (6.0 kg) |
| Diameter/Thread | 3/8"-16 |
| Counter Balance System | Fixed spring |
| Counter Balance Range | Optimized for 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) |
| Center of Gravity | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Quick Release/Wedge Plate | Yes (501PL) |
| Balance Plate | Yes, with 58mm of travel |
| Tilt Drag | 1-Step |
| Tilt Range | -60 to +90° |
| Tilt Lock | Separate |
| Spring Loaded Counter Bal | 1-Step |
| Pan Range | 360° |
| Pan Lock | Separate |
| Leveling Bubble/Illuminated | Yes/Non |
| Temperature Range | 14 - 140°F (-10 - 60°C) |
| Height | 4.5" (11.5 cm) |
| Weight | 3.5 lbs (1.6 kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 291 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Stable (239)
- Attaches firmly (190)
- Large range of motion (179)
- Strong clamp (143)
- Lightweight (18)
Cons
- Heavy (41)
- Complicated controls (3)
Best Uses
- Video (171)
- Weddings (101)
- Landscape/scenery (93)
- Sports/action (66)
- Home (64)
- How long have you owned it:
A month or less
50%
(7 reviews)
One-to-three months
Three-to-six months
More than six months
- Reviewer Profile:
- Pro photographer (102), Semi-pro photographer (76), Photo enthusiast (25), Tech savvy (18), Film professional (16)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (161)
Most Liked Positive Review
I like it
I purchased the 501HDV to support a 6 pound Panasonic HVX200 camera and orginally placed it on an inexpensive but sturdy tripod. It panned very smoothly but I did notice some sticking when I tilted...Read complete review
I purchased the 501HDV to support a 6 pound Panasonic HVX200 camera and orginally placed it on an inexpensive but sturdy tripod. It panned very smoothly but I did notice some sticking when I tilted the head if it had not been moved for a short period of time (say 15 minutes). I recently purchased a more appropriate tripod, the Manfrotto 755XB, and spent some time adjusting the drags on the 501HDV. Today it worked like a dream during the church service. After balancing the camera by sliding the top plate into the correct position, I was able to move the head very smoothly in all directions with very little force and did not notice any sticking when changing the tilt of the 501HDV. I was amazed that I was able to very smoothly "tweak" my alignment with one finger. I also purchased and added a Varizoom Zoom/Iris/Focus controller to the handle and now thoroughly enjoy the control I have over the camera at my finger tips. I no longer have to take my eye off of the monitor to locate and adjust the iris and focus of the camera when panning from one side of the stage to the other or zooming in and out (I need to adjust the iris control due to varied lighting within the sanctuary). So far so good.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Save the extra money, get the 501 instead
I don't see any benefit over the 501, and actually, i think the 501 is a far superior product. If anything, i'd recommend this more for standard def cameras rather than high-def.The build ...Read complete review
I don't see any benefit over the 501, and actually, i think the 501 is a far superior product. If anything, i'd recommend this more for standard def cameras rather than high-def.The build quality is very shoddy. the controls that used to be metal are now plastic, and it feels very fragile. they added a feature called balance control, which does as it is expected and it won't let your camera fall forward or backwards. but with it on, you better not do any tilts with it recording, or you get an awful springy action at the start and end of your tilt. the pan is much less fluid than the 501, especially at the start and end of the pan. also, perhaps because it is new, but i've noticed a squeak when the pan/tilt friction is set a little high (although at a normal range, for a firm resistance).given manfrotto's reputation, it upsets me that a more expensive product has left me thinking i wish i bought the 501 instead.
Problems Encountered: Balance control creates springy feel to tilts, pans are not as fluid as i'd like, controls feel plasticy
Previous Equivalent Items Owned: Manfrotto 501 head / 3021PRO tripod
Items I Recommend: 3021PRO tripod
Reviewed by 291 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Smooth
Cons
- Heavy
- Large
Best Uses
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
This is a very good head, Very fluid movement and very versatile. My only real complaint is just how big and heavy it is. For just basic DSLR usage with a small prime lens, this head is extremely overkill. However as i plan on working my way up to a full blown DSLR video rig over time, I'm sure the size and weight will be much appreciated.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Versatile
Cons
- Weak Clamp
Best Uses
- DIY
- Home
- Rail slider Support
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
I got this to replace 701HDV for my Igus based Camera slider for which it was way too heavy. 501HDV seem to hold weight of the rail and camera while it's moving, but it still sags slightly. Release plate is great and I especially love that it comes with two scrwes: 1/4" and 3/8. I used 3/8" to thread it to the Igus rail. It's easy to remove and insert, however small knob that stops it from moving is hard to hand tighten due to it's small size (you have nothing to grab onto). Overall I think it's a great head for my unusual setup.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
Fluid motion all the way around. Easy to use video head.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Can Support 13 pounds
Cons
- None
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
I use the 501HDV video head to support the Losmandy StarLapse System.
The axis of the StarLapse System must be pointed at the North Star.
The StarLapse System, camera, and lens weigh about
11 pounds.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
I use this with a 550D with 24-105 lens, and the pan and tilt feaure works like a charm. One thing to keep in mind is the size of te head itself - it is water bigger than what I expected after looking online.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
This is a must-have for videographers who continuosly are mounting camera in tripod, sliders, small-jibs, etc.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
I needed a very light & compact head/stix for carrying on a backpack for use with a DSLR.
I much prefer using real fluid heads from vinten, sachtler, cartoni & O'connor. But this head performs pretty well given the low price, small size & light weight. I will not be replacing my real fluid head with this, only use it as a supplement.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
Very well built
Hig quality
Easy to use
Positive control
Best tripod mount I have found for BIG lenses
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
For YEARS I've made due with so-so video heads. With the purchase of a Cobra Crane I had no choice but to upgrade! Very pleased with the 501HDV. Two thumbs up!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentary
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
we use them with Sony EX1, Z1s,Z5s. they work well for these types of cameras in documentary and classroom use. It will even work for concerts if you are careful. Set up is fast though it will make noise as the legs snap loudly.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Fit in Travel bag
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
Professional Videographer I bought this to use with Cannon 7d for film and video production. Price and quality was what I expected from Manfrotto, was easy to install on my existing tripod and provides a very smooth operation. I chose this over the smaller 710 fluid head for the vertical and horizontal lock down. Great value!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Lightweight
- Smooth Operation
- Versatile
Cons
- Prone to Scratch
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
I own a Canon 60D and needed a light-weight fluid head to mount to my home made Jib & Slider for my video needs and so far this has worked stupendously.
The camera may be a little too light for the head, but leaving the tension loose resolves this. I read that other people purchasing this head have had issues mounting DSLRs to it and were 'forced' to purchase a bridge plate to elevate the camera. If you require a mattebox & followfocus, then you will need a bridgeplate anyway. But if budget is on your mind the camera can still mount straight to the baseplate. All you have to do is unscrew the tension nob that holds the bridgeplate in place and adjust it so that it tightens before hitting the base of the camera.
I also mounted this head to an old set of legs from a tension tripod I had and it's working swell.
Keep in mind that it has a flat base, so leveling will be an issue. That's why I purchased the Manfrotto 3502 Ball Level. It mounts right at the Base with a 3/8" screw and works fantastic. Adds a bit of weight but my rigs can handle it.
Very pleased with this product. The one downside is maybe the finish is rather prone to scratches. Will most likely invest in a bag/carry solution.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
Great head for what I do.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
Some heads just have too much going on, this is simple, easy to use and great quality. Love Manfrotto
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Smooth
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
Used for DSLR video production for international broadcast. High Quality, very smooth, light and strong. Used this with the Slik 700 tripod for a lightweight but professional setup for less than $300. Fast Shipping and Delivery.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Interior Exterior
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
Nice solid head with smooth pans and tilt. Used with a camera crane provides stable support.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Smooth action
Cons
- Pan lock is weak
Best Uses
- Jib
- Slider
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
I got this head to use on my slider and jib arm. I already have a 501 HDV on my 351 legs and love using it.
I had tried to get a cheaper head, the popular 717AH, but the panning fluid on that was way too thick and I tried replacing it with several different substitutes, all of which were too thin. So I broke down and got the Manfrotto.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
This is the 2nd Manfrotto 501 series video head that I've bought in the last 4 years. The 1st was several years back, & since then there has been some 'improvement' on the 501 line itself. Regardless of the improvements, it still functions just as efficiently as before. I would buy another one again in a heartbeat!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Easy OnOff slide plate
- Easy to use locks
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- A little heavy
- Panhandle too long
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
The ON & OFF slide plate is Solid. Versatile to maneuver. Nice safety features. I know my camera is safe on this Kit.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Easy OnOff slide plate
- Good Stability
- It's Solid
- Nice safety features
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Pan Handle too long
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head:
I'm a pleasure photographer. This head is perfect for my needs. Easy on and off plate. The plate is extremely durable. It will last a long time. I know I'll be able to get the shots I want with ease now.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Quick Release Plates
- Price: $24.95
Handles & Accessories
- Price: $22.49
- Price: $43.95
What's in the Box
- 501PL Sliding Camera Plate
- 501HLV Fixed Length Pan Arm
- 2-Year Warranty + Additional 3-Years after Registering Online or by Mail
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