The Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K tripod and fluid head kit is the perfect complement to the new HDV cameras hitting the market. The tripod kit features tandem leg sections and a 75mm bowl, topped with a smooth pro fluid video head.
| General | |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 17.8 lbs (8.0kg) |
| Maximum Height | 59.06" (150cm) |
| Altura Máxima sem a Coluna Estendida | N/D |
| Minimum Height | 19.8" (50.3cm) |
| Folded Length | 63cm (24.8cm) |
| Nivelamento de Bolha/Iluminada | Sim/sim |
| Weight | 14.2 lbs (6.4kg) |
| Head | |
|---|---|
| Sistema de Contrapeso | 3 Etapas |
| Liberação Rápida/Prato Wedge | Sim, com parafusos de montagem de 1/4-20 e 3/8-16 |
| Prato de Balanceamento | Sim, com 58mm de deslocamento |
| Tilt Drag | Continuously Variable |
| Faixa de Inclinação | -60 a +90° |
| Trava de Inclinação | Independente |
| Spring Loaded Counter Bal | Continuously Variable |
| Faixa de Pan | 360° |
| Trava de Pan | Sim |
| Legs | |
|---|---|
| Material | Alumínio |
| Encaixe de Conexão de Cabeça | 75mm |
| Estágios/Seções de Perna | 1/2 |
| Tipo de Trava de Perna | Braçadeira de liberação rápida |
| Abertura Independente de Pernas | Sim |
| Pés Pontudos/Retráteis | Pés Pontudos com Sapatas de Borracha |
| Braço Central | Nível Intermediário |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
A month or less | 75% (3 reviews) | |
One-to-three months | ||
Three-to-six months | ||
More than six months |
Most Liked Positive Review
Great product for the price
I use this tripod for everyday use with an HVX200 and a Canon XHA1. I shoot both in studio and our in the feild covering sporting events and commercial production. This tripod is super ...Read complete review
I use this tripod for everyday use with an HVX200 and a Canon XHA1. I shoot both in studio and our in the feild covering sporting events and commercial production. This tripod is super stable and easy to deploy. The head is butter smooth and gives me confidence in every tilt/pan move I do. The only negative is it can get heavy after a long carry all day. But again for the price I am totally satisfied. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a solid and smooth tripod on a budget.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Not Bad... But not the best either
I downgraded my tripod from a Cartoni to this Bogen for my new camera, because the Cartoni tripod I had seemed to be a bit of overkill for my camera, but I kind of ...Read complete review
I downgraded my tripod from a Cartoni to this Bogen for my new camera, because the Cartoni tripod I had seemed to be a bit of overkill for my camera, but I kind of wish I had kept the Cartoni, because it did some things so much better than this tripod.
First, looking at this tripod individually, it is a nice tripod. The head movement is pretty fluid and seems to work very well. The sticks are very sturdy and it holds my 6 pound camera very well.
Now for the cons. The biggest complaint I have with this tripod is the spreader. The spreaders on this thing just always seem to get in the way when you are trying to use the tripod quickly. They are just so free flowing that they just prevent it from collapsing well and also extending out well. Also, the pan and tilt controls on the head can be somewhat cumbersome to use on the fly. They just don't seem very intuitive. Also, you might as well throw the instructions away when you get them, because they are the WORST instructions I have ever had to deal with. I know it is a tripod and it should be sraight-forward, but when I was looking for a way to deal with the stupid spreaders, I couldn't find anything I needed. They are just terrible.
Still. I would have to say that for the price, Bogen makes a great tripod. It is solid and sturdy and it has a good motion. My only bit of advice is that if you are planning on using a tripod for a situation where you don't have a lot of time to set up the tripod, you might want to skip this one and look for something else. It isn't bad... but it isn't so great I want to run out and tell my friends.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 50 customers
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Pros
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Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
Used it for the first time shooting at a trade show. It handled the EOS 7D in a Redrock Micro Cinema rig with no problem. Head is smooth with fairly easy-to-use controls. It sets up quicly. I really like the illuminated bubble level. The bag that came with is one of the better included items I've seen. Only problem issues are minor and include a rattle-prone and fiddly mid stabalizer, hard to access pan tension adjuster, and the weight. It is heavy, but I guess that goes with strength and stability.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
Generally I steer away from buying kits because they're filled with a bunch of cheap accessories that you don't need/wouldn't buy separately. However, the bag that comes with this tripod kit is really high quality and comfortable to carry! The legs are a bit heavy, but they're super sturdy and adjustable. The 503 head is smooth and solid. I use this kit with a Canon XHA1s and it could handle much more. I work in an office where I'm the only media person but others who walk by constantly say how high quality the tripod looks - and I'd have to agree! Good buy!
Pros
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Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
As you would assume, this sets up and breaks down in a flash. Nicely designed...very smooth and stable.
FYI: Some controllers (such as the ZR-1000) will require clamp modifications in order to mount on the supplied pan bar.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
I use this kit with a Canon XH A1s. I do not have any accessories other than a UV filter, but it could easily handle more weight.
First the legs:
The tripod is a nice length. It is still a couple of feet collapsed but then again you can get nice and high (6' approx). These legs are strong, heavy, and sturdy, which is what I wanted. To extend the legs, you pull the tabs up and then push them down again once the legs are at the desired height.
The spreader is fine however, it is not my favorite. The spreader wiggles a little when not fully locked down, but otherwise works fine. It is fairly user friendly.
The feet impressed me. Each leg has two spiked ends for outdoor shooting (e.g. dirt, grass, concrete, etc.). These can be covered by a small plastic/rubber base underneath each leg's spikes or a quick rubber cover that is pulled over the spikes. Both work well.
Overall, this is a great tripod. The bowl mount and crutch legs are great design elements and it feels very professional and sturdy.
The 501HDV head is nice and big looking. It has a nice heft to it; it weighs about the same as the legs. The handle can be attached to the left or right side.
I like the solid support of this head. It is very easy to level because of an illuminated bubble level and the bowl mount. The bowl lets you tilt the head to level instead of forcing you to adjust the legs to make everything level.
The tilt and drag controls are nice and large. I need to play with it more to get the drag just right, but the action is very smooth. I really am glad that the tension level is fully adjustable and not limited to one or two settings. Also, the adjustable spring tension is a plus.
The two things I did not necessarily like were the placement of one of the tension dials – it's under the plate and is difficult to reach with the camera on the tripod – and that the tension is a little lighter than I was hoping. However, this might be due to my settings. The plate comes with two size screws, which is great. Mine uses the 3/8th size.
The manufacturer supplied bag is rugged and even has a soft shell top. I was expecting something flimsy; I was very impressed by the quality of the bag.
Overall, this is a great tripod, especially for the money. I would not recommend another one for the price, which is why I bought this one.
Strengths:
Solid, durable construction
Crutch design
Bowl mount
Tension full adjustable
Spring Balance
Smoot panning and tilting
Nice travel bag
Spiked feet with covers
Bubble level
Weaknesses:
Mid spreader just ok
If you need a better tripod than an entry level model but cannot spend $1000 plus, I would HIGHLY recommend this kit. I used a mid level Sachtler with this camera before my tripod arrived and was much more impressed by my Manfrotto.
Hope this helps!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
I use this tripod for filming wedding,school and church event,short film,land scaping, and family.I bought this tripod last year,I use it this product befor write my review. I glad you buy this tripod.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
This is my first tripod over $100. Im 23yo for a long time i didnt believe in tripods and thought they were a waste of time and money but i have grown to appreciate them. I dont have much experience with quality tripods so i didnt know what to expect going into it. The first thing i noticed when i got my package from BH is the carrying bag is actually high quality and nice i was not expecting that, fabric is thick and everything looks very durable.I really recommend getting a tripod bag i can throw it in my trunk or my car with all my other gear and it does not get tangled or in the way can pulled it out of there with no problem. Next thing i noticed is the tripod is very light, aluminum is awesome and works great, very sturdy. I own the EX1 and Letus Extreme when combined together can be very heavy ( around 13 pounds or so ) but handled it with ease. 503HDV is actually alot bigger in person picture makes it looks small. The 503HDV head handled EX1 & Letus extreme no problem, pan and tilts were very professional. The pan and tilt drag adjustments are smooth and quick & easy to dial in. Im new to a tripod and it does take practice with your arms to get quality shots my first few were sub par but i did improve quickly. It takes about 10 min to get all the hight width adjustments to your preference (only have to do that once in a whole day of shooting). Once that is completed it only takes a few min to get your shot set up. I shoot MMA (mixed martial arts) documentaries and films. I shoot alot free hand but when we set up interviews, time lapses, establishing shots, and anything from a distance tripod works awesome. I have used the 501 before and i can say the 503 head is bigger, has more adjustments and is smoother. I can be zoomed in at 100% with no shakiness & very controlled pan and tilts. The legs are legs not to much to talk about except they are light, sturdy, and the quick release with the legs works pro, very easy and effortless. There are other tripods that claim to be just as good for half the price but you are taking a chance, you can be 100% certain with Manfrotto and there high end products. Yea there a little pricey but high quality isn't that what we want our films to be?
Hope this helps everyone, one month ago i was in the same boat reading all this. Good luck!
-Sean
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
This is a heavy tripod but allows for easily fluid movement with a pretty low learning curve. Obviously my HMC150 is not that heavy, so I cannot comment as to performance with heavy cameras, but for mine it works well and provides that sturdiness you demand. It isn't that easily adjusted at times, but if you are patient you can get the job done in a semi-hurry.
I love the quick release and use it a lot. I haven't figured out the feet yet but nor have I needed them, but I will soon.
The case is nice even if it's a bit of a tight fit. Not much else to say except get this if you cannot afford the next level up.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
We use this in our Ministry for Television production.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
Great tripod.
Maintains the 3 to 1 weight ratio for a tripod to camera weights.
I have a heavy camera, and I wanted a tripod that wouldn't go "Stix-Up," for lack of a better term, with a slight bump.
This tripod is easily transportable inside it's well designed and easily adjustable case.
Handy Shoulder Strap
Handy parts compartment built-in.
Durable Case.
Battery Lit Level (Not needed, but could be handy at some point).
Easy to tear down.
Quick Release spreaders.
Interchangeable Shoes (Flat,Spike,Rubber Spike Covers).
Easy to disassemble.
Tripod weight cancels vibrations from moving parts on cameras.
Take care of it, it will take care of you!
Final Thought-
Remember the 3 to 1 Rule for tripods. If the locks are failing, it usually means your camera is too heavy...
If your looking at this tripod, you probably have a nice camera... Your camera is your most important investment, take care of it. Don't buy a tripod because it's lightweight, buy it to keep your investment off the ground!
Hope this helps,
-Dan :)
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
Great tripod.
Maintains the 3 to 1 weight ratio for a tripod to camera weights.
I have a heavy camera, and I wanted a tripod that wouldn't go "Stix-Up," for lack of a better term, with a slight bump.
This tripod is easily transportable inside it's well designed and easily adjustable case.
Handy Shoulder Strap
Handy parts compartment built-in.
Durable Case.
Battery Lit Level (Not needed, but could be handy at some point).
Easy to tear down.
Quick Release spreaders.
Interchangeable Shoes (Flat,Spike,Rubber Spike Covers).
Easy to disassemble.
Tripod weight cancels vibrations from moving parts on cameras.
Take care of it, it will take care of you!
Final Thought-
Remember the 3 to 1 Rule for tripods.
If your looking at this tripod, you probably have a nice camera... Your camera is your most important investment, take care of it. Don't buy a tripod because it's lightweight, buy it to keep your investment off the ground!
Hope this helps,
-Dan :)
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
A solid well built product and fantastically stable. A little heavy if you need to heft it about but that's the trade-off for a dead stable shot. Useful illuminated levelling bubble and a great bag. I recommend this product and I will definitely be a return customer for Manfrotto gear.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
We had purchased these same legs prior and loved them. The initial purchase was made in an attempt to find a tripod that compacted enough to allow for carrying onto planes and yet still be tall enough to be truly usefull. We liked the legs so much that we purchased the same legs, this time with the updated head. The head itself has enough control and flexibility to be an all around use system. I also like the lite that was added to the leveling bubble. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a light and extremely cost effective tripod.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
I use this with an EX3 and at first I thought it would not be very smooth but after 3 shoots this tripod and head are pretty good.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
using with JVC GY-HD100 with and without anton bauer battery can't balance or lock the head properly, the Cheaper Chinese knock off does a far better job
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
Great for home use and special events. Easy to adjust, very stable, and rather portable. Love the case that it comes with.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
Great tripod and head for the money. Would recommend to anyone looking for an entry level "semi-pro" tripod. Will buy another one for sure.
We are using it with an M2 rig and several different HD digi-cams.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
I love how sturdy this tripod it. The head has great smooth movement. The locks are nice and tight too. I'd buy another one.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
I downgraded my tripod from a Cartoni to this Bogen for my new camera, because the Cartoni tripod I had seemed to be a bit of overkill for my camera, but I kind of wish I had kept the Cartoni, because it did some things so much better than this tripod.
First, looking at this tripod individually, it is a nice tripod. The head movement is pretty fluid and seems to work very well. The sticks are very sturdy and it holds my 6 pound camera very well.
Now for the cons. The biggest complaint I have with this tripod is the spreader. The spreaders on this thing just always seem to get in the way when you are trying to use the tripod quickly. They are just so free flowing that they just prevent it from collapsing well and also extending out well. Also, the pan and tilt controls on the head can be somewhat cumbersome to use on the fly. They just don't seem very intuitive. Also, you might as well throw the instructions away when you get them, because they are the WORST instructions I have ever had to deal with. I know it is a tripod and it should be sraight-forward, but when I was looking for a way to deal with the stupid spreaders, I couldn't find anything I needed. They are just terrible.
Still. I would have to say that for the price, Bogen makes a great tripod. It is solid and sturdy and it has a good motion. My only bit of advice is that if you are planning on using a tripod for a situation where you don't have a lot of time to set up the tripod, you might want to skip this one and look for something else. It isn't bad... but it isn't so great I want to run out and tell my friends.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
I used this tripod for filming, familiy event, school event, sport and other activity
this tripod are the best.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 503HDV,351MVB2K Aluminum Video Tripod Kit:
Head controls and movement are very good.
Tripod is little heavy but it is easy to set
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