Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System
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) |
| Altura Máxima sem a Coluna Estendida | N/D |
| Minimum Height | 17.9" (45.5cm) |
| Folded Length | 33.3" (84.6cm) |
| Nivelamento de Bolha/Iluminada | Sim/sim |
| Weight | 13.6 lbs (6.2kg) |
| Head | |
|---|---|
| Counter Balance System | 4-Step |
| Liberação Rápida/Prato Wedge | Sim |
| Balance Plate | Sliding, 1/4" and 3/8" Screws |
| Tilt Drag | Continuous |
| Tilt Range | -60° / +90° |
| Tilt Lock | Independent |
| Spring Loaded Counter Bal | Continuous |
| Faixa de Pan | 360° |
| Pan Lock | Independent |
| Legs | |
|---|---|
| Material | Alumínio |
| Encaixe de Conexão de Cabeça | Bojo de 75mm |
| Estágios/Seções de Perna | 2/3 |
| Leg Lock Type | Flip Levers |
| Abertura Independente de Pernas | Sim |
| Spiked/Retractable Feet | Yes, w/rubber covers |
| Braço Central | Estrela de nível médio |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 90 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
93%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Stable (48)
- Unfolds quickly (21)
- Lightweight (19)
- Smooth movement (18)
- Easy to use (13)
Cons
- Heavy (26)
- Cumbersome (11)
- Difficult to adjust (3)
Best Uses
- Stabilization (30)
- Movies (23)
- Video (19)
- HD shooting (14)
- Documentaries (12)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Film professional (37), Tech savvy (21), Aspiring film maker (14), Pro photographer (12), Semi-pro photographer (6)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (75)
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 90 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Stable, easy to adjust, nicely machined...
at a fraction of the price of a sachtler.
The only funny thing I have found so far
that takes some getting used to is the leg
locking system. Not what I am accustomed to but it does the job.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Legs Slide
- Slips Out Of Position
- Unstable
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I had three of these tripods issued to my production crew. ALL THREE BROKE in some way. The legs on two of them would slide loose, and the cameras would slowly collapse. This is with a Sony EX-1 mounted on them, too (which is not very heavy). The third tripod, as another reviewer mentioned, had the mid-level spreader snap off. Sure, the fluid head might be tempting, but what good is it when the entire tripod breaks within a few weeks of getting it? 0 for 3 Manfrotto- way to go.
Pros
- Locks In Tight
Cons
- Difficult To Adjust
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
The tripod is sturdy and very well built. The only issue is weight, it weighs a lot and is not the easiest thing to move around nor does it have a small footprint. I don't recommend using the tripod for event or situations where you might be on the move. I love the head it's nice and smooth, easy to use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Outdoors
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Having only used smaller manfrotto systems before like the 501 and 503 heads, and not being very impressed with their smoothness, I am pleasantly surprised with this product. Pretty good build quality, sturdy, and much more adjustable resistance than the smaller heads. I haven't shot much with it yet, but first impression is a good one. I don't think it's as smooth as my Vinten Vision Blue system, but it's not as pricey either.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Lightweight
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This is an excellent support system for the serious professional. The 504HD head is butter smooth and provides excellent pan/tilt controls as well as balancing for the camera.
The 546B tripod is solid as a rock, adjusts easily and is light enough to transport easily. The mid-level spreader is a big improvement over earlier versions of these sticks, permitting the tripod to be set up on virtually any service.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Rock solid for time lapse even during the harshest wind!
I use this for all of my shots with Video and Photo.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This package is a good balance of quality and affordability. I purchased this stick / head combination for DSLR video and use it to support a slider system. The 564 tripod provides good, quick adjustment with just enough weight to aid stability to the package. The 504HD head is a nice wide platform (including long slide plate) that delivers excellent stability for a slider mechanism. The whole package delivered as promised. A bag is also included, which makes it easy to carry over your shoulder when you are on the move.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
Cons
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
for commercial, and weddings, it is very good,
Pros
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This is my first professional tripod and fluid head combination and it is all that I could hope for. I'm using it with a Canon 7D for video and still photography. Construction is sturdy, it's easy to use, stable as a rock with a smooth fluid head action. It's a little heavier than I anticipated, but then that comes from the solid build. Couldn't be happier.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Footing
- Lightweight
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
The tripod and head lived up to my expectations. I use a DSRL rig setup. It could handle everything without any serious balance issues.
The padded bag it comes with (MBAG100PN) on the other hand, came delivered with multiple, small, dime length slices through the bag. Around the top/main opening. B&H then promptly sent me a replacement bag. The replacement had the same issue...even worse, and it looked used. Waiting for No3 bag to arrive. Wish me luck! Great tripod/head combo in any case! (No pun intended)
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Footing
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I am used to pro tripods for much heavier film and TV cameras, so was surprised and pleased to see plate adjustment, spring load, variable drag, and handle extension on this cheap medium weight unit. In fact 'cheap' only applies to the price. I was impressed at the build quality, which is excellent. It sits very solidly with no lash and the fluid head is sweet. Of course there are some plastic fittings so don't go bashing it around, but overall it gets top marks from me.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Difficult To Adjust
- Slips Out Of Position
- Wears Easily
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I used this head a few times and now there is slippage and play internally on the head even when its tightened to the max. Also when the friction is set to its max being 9/0 it is still to loose with not enough friction. Who operates a head when it's so loose like this one? The sticks are really annoying with the medal spreaders as well. Takes way to long to get it down to a lower spread especially when you have your camera still mounted to the head. I am always having to tighten the upper legs with my allan key since it always comes loose. Really annoying to say the least that this thing can't stay tight. If you want a good reliable head spend the extra money and get something other than this one. [...]
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Lightweight
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Outdoors
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
We love the system, the lighted level, the ease of use. the large carrying bag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Works great so far.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
For those of you entertaining a tripod/head upgrade, do yourself a favor and take the plunge... get this tripod. The head is equally amazing too.
Well constructed; lifetime guarantee. PERFECT!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
heavy but rigid and heavy duty,,full confidence when using ..proud of having this brand name..i feel like iam the envy of all the videographer in my area..very good ..
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
- sturdy
Cons
- Heavy
- Legs slower to deploy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I just recently picked up this system, and I'm very happy that I did.
Within 24 hours I was using this tripod with a Sony EX-1 for a live broadcast. Although I have used other Manfrotto tripods, I was very quick to adapt to this system, and had my settings dialed-in pretty quickly. The tripod worked beautifully on very fast pan/tilts that followed action, and I could quickly adjust the drag for a very slow pan for cutaways. Lock the tripod down and it's really sturdy, and the counter-balance system works nicely. I must say I didn't have much time to test the counter-balance, but from what I saw it was very nice.
I especially like the numbered drag controls. No longer do you simply crank down the drag as on previous models - you now know exactly how much drag you have at any given moment. This is especially nice when going to adjust after a long period of time, because it helps you avoid putting extra stress on the drag system.
My one point of contention is that the legs - while very sturdy - are a big slow to deploy sometimes. I don't mind this when I have a little more time. But even under pressure conditions it was a minor hiccup. Also, the tripod with these legs is definitely heavier than say the 503. It doesn't bother me too much, but definitely be conscious of the weight if you are going to fly with it.
All in all, I'm very satisfied with my purchase, and I look forward to using the tripod for a long time.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good price value
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Difficult To Adjust
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Sports/Action
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this product for DSLR filming. I needed a steady tripod and a smooth pan/tilt head - this tripod satisfies my extremely high standards. If you want anything better than this you will have to pay a lot more.
There is nothing I really don't like. It looks beautiful and functions just as good as it looks.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Professional build quality. Great for moderately heavy camera rigs. Excellent movement. Head attached to tripod fits nicely in the bag. Highly Recommend!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
- Well built
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
We use this product for web video projects. From the product photo, we were initially concerned about the sturdiness of the tripod; however, the unit is extremely well built and easy to adjust. The fluid head works flawlessly giving us slow, steady pans. Also, the unit comes in a really nice, high end carry bag which was a surprise. We are totally satisfied with this purchase!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Spreaders & Dollies
- Preço: $269.95
Bags & Cases
- Preço: $255.80
O que vem na caixa
- 504HD Fluid Video Head
- 546B Pro Video Tripod w/Mid-level Spreader
- MBAG100PN Padded Tripod Bag
- 2-Year Warranty + Additional 3 Years w/Online Registration
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