Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black)

  • Price: $420.00
  • B&H # MA351MV501K
  • Mfr# 501HDV,351MVB2K

Product Highlights

  • 501HDV Head
  • 351MVB 1-Stage 2-Section Tripod
  • Mid-Level Spreader
  • Soft Carry Bag
  • 13.2 lbs Capacity

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The Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K is a kit which includes the 501HDV pro video head, 351MVB 1-stage tripod, 350SPRB mid-level spreader, and the MBAG90P tripod bag. This system works for handheld sized camcorders up to 13.2 lbs.

Mid-Level Spreader
The Bogen/Manfrotto 350SPRB is a mid-level spreader designed to fit the mid-level leg joint casting of specific tripods. Mid-level spreaders offer security, stability and rigidity for the 350MVB, 350SHMVB, 351MVCF and 351 MVB tripods. Replaces part number 3189.
Fluid Head
Redesigned to accommodate evolving video technology, the Bogen/Manfrotto 501HDV now features improved drag in 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.
Tripod Legs
The Bogen/Manfrotto 351MVB professional video tripod is designed with tandem upper legs, single lower legs and a classic 75mm claw-ball leveler. Stainless-steel fittings combined with high-quality castings provide the rigidity and stability that's needed in the professional realm. This tripod features variable leg angles, quick-flip lever logs, and spiked feet for sure, secure locking. Replaces part number 3182.
Carry Case
The Bogen/Manfrotto MBAG90P Padded Tripod Bag is a padded tripod bag designed to carry Bogen/Manfrotto tripods with head up to 35" long. Thermoform padding holds the tripod in place and protects it, especially the head, during transport. It also serves a double purpose by protecting you from the tripod's hard edges when carrying it by your side.

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General
Load Capacity 13.2 lbs (6.0kg)
Maximum Height 59.45" (151cm)
Maximum Height w/o Column Extended N/A
Minimum Height 33.07" (84cm)
Folded Length 40.7" (103.4cm)
Leveling Bubble/Illuminated Yes/Non
Weight 12.5 lbs (5.6kg)
Head
Counter Balance System Fixed spring
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
Legs
Material Aluminum alloy
Head Attachment Fitting 3/8-16
Leg Stages/Sections 1/2
Leg Lock Type Fast-action clamps
Independent Leg Spread Yes
Spiked/Retractable Feet Spiked
Center Brace Mid-level

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black)
 
4.5

(based on 50 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (26)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (23)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (1)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Stable (40)
  • Unfolds quickly (26)
  • Lightweight (21)
  • Folds away (11)
  • Durable (6)

Cons

  • Heavy (11)

Best Uses

  • Video (17)
  • Stabilization (16)
  • Weddings (9)
  • Landscape/scenery (7)
  • Sports/action (7)
    • How long have you owned it:
    • A month or less

       

      57% 

      (4 reviews)

      One-to-three months

       

      Three-to-six months

       

      More than six months

       
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Pro photographer (13), Semi-pro photographer (8), Tech savvy (8), Film professional (6), Aspiring film maker (4)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Fantastic for the Price!

Great product! The 501HDV head is not a top of the line head, and it's a little rough at times. It has a bit of bounce-back after fast pans, and the tilt friction ...Read complete review

Great product! The 501HDV head is not a top of the line head, and it's a little rough at times. It has a bit of bounce-back after fast pans, and the tilt friction is not as adjustable as I could wish. All that said, I love it! I use the head mostly with a Canon XH-A1, and it works great for that camera and other cameras like it, including the Panasonic HVX200. For its price, the 501HDV delivers a deeply satisfying, smooth, stable pan and tilt. The locking quick release plate is wonderful. I have used other screws, platforms, and plates, and this one beats all the others hands-down!

The 351MVB2K legs are a nice match for the 501HDV. The legs are a bit unwieldy to set up, and they are heavy to move. But the weight and size come in handy when you shoot. They create a very stable platform. The legs are also smaller and more portable that others, and I find them to be a good compromise between price and performance, size and stability.

The kit came with everything I needed to start using the tripod. I love the footpads that cover the double-spike feet. The ball adjustment head is wonderful. At a shoot today, I had to move around a lot of uneven floor, but the ball adjustment head gave me one-stop leveling simplicity, and I didn't have to spend valuable time adjusting the legs over and over again. The mid-level spreader is okay; I think I'll spring for a floor spreader after a while. Nevertheless, the mid-level spreader works just fine and helps in folding the tripod and so forth.

Overall, a fantastic kit! I love using mine, and I highly recommend this kit for anyone with similar budget and equipment.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

Old system better, best for the $

We use these in our field production. The 501 head has some features that beat the 3063. I really like the half-dome head for quick set-up. The action is better, and the selectable ...Read complete review

We use these in our field production. The 501 head has some features that beat the 3063. I really like the half-dome head for quick set-up. The action is better, and the selectable drag settings are nice. I like the soft pouch, and I like the fact that it is lighter weight.
The materials don't seem to be as sturdy. We'll see how they hold up. The tripod itself isn't as sturdy as the 3046. Overall, I would say the old 3046/3063 tripod system is better for what we do. The bag could be redesigned so the assembled tripod can slip in the top easier. The internal side pouch tends to hang up on the tripod as it slides in. Overall, however, compared to everything else I checked out there, it appears to be the best value for the money.

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 50 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-20

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4.0

Unbeatable for the price

By Mike

from Miami, Fla.

About Me Pro Photographer

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Folds Small
  • Good Stability
  • GREAT PRICE
  • Lightweight
  • Unfolds Quickly

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Night Shots
    • Video

    Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

    I have no bad tings to say about this tripod. i am a freelance videographer currently involved in the production of short dramatic pieces for festival puroses and it suits this admirably. I shoot with a JVC GY-110 and it supports the camera and the DXI v-mount battery with no problem. i would not hesitate to recommend this product or B & H elctronics to anyone.

    Myukle Mettee

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Comment on this review

     
    5.0

    Great Tripod!

    By HA/marker

    from Brazil

    About Me Pro Photographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Good Stability

    Cons

    • Heavy

    Best Uses

    • Sports/Action
    • Video

    Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

    Very smooth to operate. Great head and strong legs!

    Comment on this review

     
    5.0

    Manfrotto makes great Tripod

    By Just Relax

    from Raleigh, NC

    About Me Pro Photographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Good Stability
    • Lightweight
    • Unfolds Quickly

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Landscape/Scenery
      • Sports/Action
      • Video
      • Weddings/Events
      • Wildlife

      Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

      I've had this tripod for about 2months now and it is worth the price I paid for it. It pans and tilts smoothly. It is not too heavy to carry and the free bag makes it very mobile. setup is not much work and I really like the flip locks on it. This is money well spent. [...]

      Comment on this review

       
      4.0

      Good value for money

      By amilee

      from New York

      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Good Stability
      • Lightweight

      Cons

        Best Uses

          Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

          Solid and sturdy but not too heavy. Easy to adjust and works smoothly.

          Comment on this review

           
          5.0

          Great Tripod for the Money

          By Moe

          from Los Angeles, CA

          About Me Pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Good Stability
          • Unfolds Quickly

          Cons

          • Needs a better case

          Best Uses

          • Home
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Night Shots
          • Portraits
          • Sports/Action
          • Travel
          • Video
          • Weddings/Events
          • Wildlife

          Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

          Great tripod for the money

          Comment on this review

           
          5.0

          Solid design at desirable price point.

          By Mammal

          from San Diego, CA

          About Me Pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Good Stability
          • Lightweight
          • Unfolds Quickly

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Video

            Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

            I use this with my 5D Mark II and it works great. The head has smooth pan and tilt. The sticks are relatively light and will suit most circumstances. A mid-level spreader and feet are included. A great overall kit at a fantastic price.

            Comment on this review

             
            5.0

            Fluid

            By Irishman

            from PA

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Folds Small
            • Good Stability
            • Lightweight
            • Unfolds Quickly

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Night Shots
              • Sports/Action
              • Travel
              • Video
              • Weddings/Events
              • Wildlife

              Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

              Very fluid motion. Easy to use, durable, steady, has a built in level, trustworthy.

              Comment on this review

               
              4.0

              Great price Great tripod

              By Jack

              from Hawaii

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Good Stability
              • Unfolds Quickly

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Sports/Action
                • Video
                • Weddings/Events

                Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                This is a smooth unit that is well build.

                Comment on this review

                 
                5.0

                Incredibly wonderful just awesome kit!!!

                By Ajotech

                from Riverside, CA

                About Me Pro Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Decent weight
                • Folds Small
                • Good Stability
                • GREAT PRICE
                • Unfolds Quickly

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Home
                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Night Shots
                  • Portraits
                  • Sports/Action
                  • Travel
                  • Video
                  • Weddings/Events
                  • Wildlife

                  Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                  I use this tripod everyday in a live production environment.
                  It is a solidly built professinal tripod and head that does not break the
                  bank.
                  There are three levels to position the legs even low down to the ground.
                  The bag that's included is so well padded and built to withstand hard and forceful
                  abuse.
                  The head pans and tilts with such a smooth and liquid like flow I LOVE IT!!!!
                  I have no negatives at all since the price, quality and results are all outstanding
                  You will look and feel like a true professional when you pull this
                  baby out in front of a client.
                  And when you go over your footage to playback any pan and tilts, you will
                  see what I'm talking about

                  Comment on this review

                   
                  4.0

                  Good, lightweight tripod

                  By BP

                  from Winter Garden, FL

                  About Me Pro Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Folds Small
                  • Good Stability
                  • Lightweight
                  • Unfolds Quickly

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Video
                    • Weddings/Events

                    Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                    Great for small HD/DV cam

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Great Tripod System

                    By Ryan

                    from Vegas

                    About Me Pro Photographer

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Folds Small
                    • Good Stability
                    • Lightweight
                    • Unfolds Quickly

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Home
                      • Landscape/Scenery
                      • News
                      • Night Shots
                      • Portraits
                      • Travel
                      • Video
                      • Weddings/Events
                      • Wildlife

                      Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                      I use the product on a multitude of freelance projects, and the tripod is versatile, smooth, and easy to use.

                      Adjusting the tripod is easy, and getting it set up and breaking it down are both things you can do easily and in a snap.

                      It's not too heavy, but is also really durable and stable, and can withstand lots of different environments.

                      Comment on this review

                       
                      5.0

                      Worth the money

                      By K Creations

                      from Central Nebraska

                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Good Stability

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Video
                        • Weddings/Events

                        Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                        I am using the tripod for weddings and local productions. It is steady and has many nice features. Nothing negative to say. practice with it before you need to use it.

                        Comment on this review

                         
                        5.0

                        Great Stability

                        By JasonATL

                        from Illinois

                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                        Verified Reviewer

                        Pros

                        • Good Stability
                        • Smooth
                        • Unfolds Quickly

                        Cons

                        • Cumbersome

                        Best Uses

                        • Video

                        Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                        I have used this with my Sony PMW-EX1 for about two years now. The 351/501 offers great stability and smooth pan and tilt motion. It takes some adjustment to get the weight balanced and head set, but isn't complex or fussy. But, once set, this tripod is great.

                        It is great for locations where I'll set up and stay for a while (e.g., a performance or a wedding), but I've not wanted to carry this thing around all day due to the weight. I have a lighter tripod (Velbon 607) that I use when I have to be on the move, but the 607 is just not in the same class as the 351/501 (and it shouldn't be, given its price and weight).

                        The carrying bag is very nice, with separate section for the arm. The tripod fits snugly and securly. Set up and tear down are both quick and painless.

                        It is amazing how clear it is in my videos as to which tripod I was using. The video from the 351/501 is rock solid and smooth, while the Velbon is not quite so in comparison. With the 351/501, there are no indications when I've touched the camera (e.g., to focus or set the iris). Perhaps a better operator could make any other tripod just as smooth and solid. My point is that this one forgives even my unsteady hand.

                        Comment on this review

                         
                        5.0

                        Solid Pod

                        By Kristopher

                        from Seattle

                        About Me Pro Photographer

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Good Stability

                        Cons

                        • Heavy

                        Best Uses

                        • Landscape/Scenery
                        • Travel
                        • Video

                        Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                        I use this for product videos, marketing material, location shooting, interviews, outdoor adventures.

                        Goods:
                        -Sturdy, well made
                        -Easy to use
                        -comes with nice case
                        -501 head works well for the money

                        Bads:
                        -Heavy
                        -501 head has weird plastic release part that has me concerned
                        -Cross-brace is kind of confusing and awkward at first (make sure you figure it out when nobody's watching)

                        Comment on this review

                         
                        5.0

                        Great Tripod

                        By Doll

                        from Saskatchewan, Canada

                        About Me Pro Photographer

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Folds Small
                        • Good Stability
                        • Lightweight
                        • Unfolds Quickly

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Home
                          • Landscape/Scenery
                          • Portraits
                          • Sports/Action
                          • Video

                          Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                          Bought this Tripod for the 501 head, great head, can be used on cranes and dollies. Was impressed by the tripod as well, the spreader is a little bit of a hassle but with the locking set-up you really don't need it anyways so I just took it off. Great product, Manfrotto never fails to impress. Great Price

                          Comment on this review

                           
                          4.0

                          Nice Tripod

                          By church tech guy

                          from Lubbock, Tx

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Good Stability
                          • Lightweight
                          • Unfolds Quickly

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                            • Video

                            Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                            very easy to set up and et level. i wish it was a little taller but all in all its a good tripod. The head is smooth. it could be a little more stable but was good for the money

                            Comment on this review

                             
                            4.0

                            Solid Tripod for the price

                            By HDSLR guy

                            from Dana Point, CA

                            About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Sturdy
                            • Versatile

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                              • Video
                              • Weddings/Events

                              Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                              Strong tripod for the price. Not ideal for all situations involving video. And probably not ideal for photography only shooting. But using a 7D, can't ask for a better product for the price.

                              Comment on this review

                               
                              5.0

                              Great Package Deal

                              By Kirk

                              from Studio City, CA

                              About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                              Verified Buyer

                              Pros

                              • Folds Small
                              • Good Stability
                              • Lightweight
                              • Unfolds Quickly

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                • Video

                                Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                                We needed a new head and tripod for our camera in one of our three casting studios. It sees pretty heavy use and has been a great upgrade.

                                Comment on this review

                                 
                                5.0

                                Great Tripod...Great Price!!!

                                By Nate Bomb

                                from the sticks, VT

                                About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • Good Stability
                                • Unfolds Quickly

                                Cons

                                • Cumbersome

                                Best Uses

                                • Long Exposures
                                • Photography
                                • Stabilization

                                Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                                I mostly use this tripod to shoot scenic shots and other types of simple video work...haven't used it yet for anything real technical....yet...
                                It's nice and sturdy, absorbs vibrations from walking and such pretty well. Very easy to level the head with the built in level.
                                The feet of the tripod are metal spikes for digging into the ground, but have these really great rubber coverings that supply super-grip! The tripod also comes with an awesome carrying bag ( needed as the tripod is a bit heavy and cumbersome to carry alone ). Also comes with another feet attachment and a ( I think ) useless mid level spreader.
                                The legs can be set nearly horizontal for supper low shots and nearly vertical to gain the best height advantage. The head is great and super smooth and doesn't move by itself when your not touching it. Just get it, it's a great tripod for the money, it's manfrotto, it's made in Italy!

                                Comment on this review

                                 
                                5.0

                                one of the best cost benefits on market

                                By Rogerio ferreira

                                from Mossoró, RN - Brazil

                                Verified Buyer

                                Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black):

                                It's easy to use and carry it!
                                Convenient and quick to use movements in different places

                                Comment on this review

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                                Quick Release Plates

                                Manfrotto -  501PL Sliding Quick Release Plate with 1/4"-20 & 3/8" Screws
                                • Price: $24.95
                                 

                                System Extensions

                                Manfrotto -  565 Rubber Shoes (Set of 3) - for Spiked Feet
                                • Price: $19.95
                                 

                                Handles & Accessories

                                Manfrotto -  501HLV Pan Handle
                                • Price: $22.49
                                 

                                Spreaders & Dollies

                                Manfrotto -  165MV On-Ground Tripod Spreader
                                • Price: $68.95
                                 

                                Adapter Bushings

                                Manfrotto -  520BALLSH 75mm Half-Ball with Short Locking Handle
                                • Price: $48.90
                                 

                                Mounting Screws

                                Manfrotto -  273 Survey Adapter - Converts 3/8" to 5/8"
                                • Price: $39.95
                                 

                                Bags & Cases

                                Porta Brace -  TLQB-41XT Quick Tripod/Light Case (Black)
                                • Price: $276.89
                                 
                                View all Accessories

                                What's in the Box

                                Manfrotto 501HDV,351MVB2K 1-Stage Tripod System Kit (Black)
                                 
                                 
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