Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System
- Price: $449.00
- Instant Savings: -$50.00 Offer ends MAR 31 '12
- You Pay: $399.00
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
The Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System combines the workhorse 501HDV Pro Video Head with a 75mm half ball and the 2-stage aluminum 546B Pro Video Tripod--bringing affordability, stability, and light weight into one sturdy package. Inspired by Manfrotto's top pro systems, this compact combo provides the support and smooth, fluid action demanded by today's videographers and DSLR shooters.
- 501HDV Fluid Video Head
- Designed to accommodate evolving video technology, the 501HDV features improved drag in both axes and switchable counterbalance for the latest ultralight HD camcorders and DSLRs. Controls are positioned and shaped for superior operational ergonomics, while a sliding camera plate helps balance uneven payloads due to outboard batteries or other accessories. Dual rosettes permit left- or two-handed pan arm configurations, with a rear-mounted spirit level facilitating rapid setups.
- 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 mid-level telescopic spreader keeps the legs exactly where you need them.
| General | |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 13.2 lbs (6kg) |
| Maximum Height | 65.1" (165.4cm) |
| Maximum Height w/o Column Extended | N/A |
| Minimum Height | 17.1" (43.5cm) |
| Folded Length | 31.7" (80.5cm) |
| Leveling Bubble/Illuminated | Yes/No |
| Weight | 11.2 lbs (5.1kg) |
| Head | |
|---|---|
| Counter Balance System | Fixed Spring |
| Quick Release/Wedge Plate | Yes |
| Balance Plate | Sliding, w/58mm of Travel |
| Tilt Drag | 1-Step |
| Tilt Range | -60° / +90° |
| Tilt Lock | Independent |
| Spring Loaded Counter Bal | 1-Step |
| Pan Range | 360° |
| Pan Lock | Independent |
| Legs | |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Head Attachment Fitting | 75mm Bowl |
| Leg Stages/Sections | 2/3 |
| Leg Lock Type | Flip Levers |
| Independent Leg Spread | Yes |
| Spiked/Retractable Feet | Yes, w/rubber covers |
| Center Brace | Mid-level Spreader |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 113 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
95%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Stable (57)
- Lightweight (38)
- Unfolds quickly (29)
- Smooth movement (26)
- Good footing (24)
Cons
- Heavy (26)
- Cumbersome (9)
- Difficult to adjust (4)
- Heavy / bulky (3)
Best Uses
- Movies (41)
- Stabilization (38)
- Video (29)
- Weddings (19)
- Documentaries (14)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Film professional (39), Tech savvy (24), Aspiring film maker (20), Semi-pro photographer (14), Pro photographer (12)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (102), Yes (3)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great tripod/head kit on a budget
Let's face it... not everyone can spend a couple grand on a carbon-fiber kit. Some of us just have tighter budgets, but still have the need for good camera support.
Read complete review
Let's face it... not everyone can spend a couple grand on a carbon-fiber kit. Some of us just have tighter budgets, but still have the need for good camera support.
There are lots of low-cost alternatives out there, but the adage still holds true that you get what you pay for. Fortunately, the line has moved and there are some affordable options out there that will hold up well. Manfrotto has a perfectly viable option with this kit.
I shoot everything from short films to commercials to promotional videos, so my needs are varied. I'm usually in a pretty controlled environment, so speed of setup isn't normally a concern. Occasionally, I'll do event coverage where sudden relocation may be necessary, but that's rare.
My old Manfrotto legs had been around the block (but were still going strong). I wish I could remember the model number, but they've been discontinued for a while. I just needed something that was a little more versatile, and I needed to have a second head on hand. This kit gave me just what I needed.
The legs are three-stage, and collapse smaller than my other, two-stage tripod. The included soft case is fantastic: well-built, easy to access, and with sturdy protection for the tripod. The tripod is light-weight and sets up fairly quickly.
I will say that getting the locks released to extend the legs takes a little elbow grease the first couple of times, but they hold securely and the height range of the legs can be very beneficial. Set-up and adjustment are remarkably fast, and this tripod can cover just about every major camera height one would need (save for specialty shots on the ground or way up high). The mid-level spreader adds stability and allows for setup on uneven terrain. Plus, the flat feet (that pivot for easy storage when the tripod is collapsed) give even more stability.
The 501HDV is an update of the original 501. Still a solid fluid head, the tension adjustment knobs and levers have been redesigned to be a bit more sturdy. This is about the least I'd spend on a tripod head, but it's still money well spent. Smooth tracking and easy adjustment make it your camera's best friend.
How does it hold up? Well, I just purchased the kit last week so only time will tell. But my original 501 is still cranking after 10 years.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Quick review
This is a quality, affortable tripod kit which delivers what you need. The legs are said to be more stable than the prior model. I like that the legs on this version fold neatly...Read complete review
This is a quality, affortable tripod kit which delivers what you need. The legs are said to be more stable than the prior model. I like that the legs on this version fold neatly together into a nice circle which makes for loading and unloading of the tripod. However the handles to lower and raise each stage are more difficult to open and close than the prior version. I use the kit for most of my shooting. The bag is more difficult to zip with the "hidden" zipper track and seems to be a bit more flimsy than the prior model, although its still pretty stable overall. The spring system is nice but it does provide a slight bit less ease of use than the other. I was so overwhelmed with the quality of the prior model that I came back to buy a few more, only to find out it was discontinued. Though this is a good kit and I would suggest it to someone who needs a good one, this is a step down from the prior version.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 113 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This combination is a very good tripod for the price. It has all the functionality of much more expensive units, and if you can manage the extra weight, its a great way to save some money. The locks for the leg units can be tough to unlock and lock, too, so this unit isn't for wimps. BUT, the legs are rock solid, and the head is as smooth as glass.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I am a full time cameraman , that is gearing down(weight wise) I do not need the heavy fluid head rigs I needed for betaSp rigs. Now using 5-8 pound cameras. The price was good, and manfrotto makes quality products . The tripod and head are light weight and came with a padded bag. The only negative is the low end(lightest) of the pan drag is a little too stiff, maybe needs some break in. I will probably replace the head with a Manfrotto MVH502A.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tripod works great for my needs. I use DSLRs and a Panasonic HMC150 on this for events and short films.
The half ball makes for great quick leveling though the handle on it is a little weird. I had no trouble adjusting it but it feels like after some use it might not be as sturdy when tightening. Only time will tell.
It is heavy but that would be my only con.
The 501HDV head is very smooth. I have two of them now on two separate Manfrotto pods and they work great for me.
This package comes with the top-of-the-line case Manfrotto makes for their tripods. I highly recommend that and was so happy it came with the package.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- DSLR
- Outdoors
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I am using it with the Xa10 Canon and Panasonic GH2.
Very Sturdy and stable The Mid Level Spreaders are giving it that extra support missing on some cheaper and lower end models.
It is a bit on the Heavy end, but that also helps for the Stability.
The head is smooth and gives the necessary fluidity for pan and tilts, even on lighter cameras.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Outdoors
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
use with video project
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Lightweight
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tripod fitted into my sony camcorder snugly.
Perfect fit, lightweight and great rotation angle.
The tapered legs balances very well.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Just took the Tripod out on a shoot over the weekend and it performed great. Everything worked as expected.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I was walking a lot in the shooting so its lightweight worked perfect, it also provides great stability and it is easy to fold and mount
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Difficult To Adjust
Best Uses
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I needed a new tripod, but don't have the budget for a top-notch fluid head -- so I went with the Manfrotto 501HDV head. And I regret nothing!
I mostly use this tripod for professional DSLR video shooting. It's true, it doesn't have the highest weight threshold or counter balance spring, but for a DSLR it works great and provides fantastically smooth motion.
I love that the tension dials aren't incremental, so you can dial in exactly what you need. I love that the tilt lock is big and allows you to put a good amount of torque into locking the head in place. I love that the leg locks are tight but not impossibly difficult to open and close.
The only two things I'd have changed about this tripod would be to give it more options for counterweight (in the case that I end up using it for heavier cameras than DSLRs), and also to put the spreader on the ground (which exists as an option, but is more expensive). The mid-leg spreader can be a little annoying to maneuver.
Overall though, I love the tripod. For the two things I'd change there are 100 things I wouldn't.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I purchased this tripod for my video production work. This tripod handles the camera weight and gives very smooth panning and tracking.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Lightweight
- Locks In Tight
- Nice CaseBag
- Smooth Movement
- Torsional Rigidity
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I purchased this tripod kit to use with my Canon 5D Mark II DSLR -- specifically for shooting HD video, and I can say without reservation that this kit is a killer value.
I work in the film & television industry and, over the years, have used the cream of the crop -- Sachtler, Miller, O'Connor, Cartoni and Vinten. Back in the day, Bogen (Manfrotto) was never a serious contender in the professional film/video production support market due to their poor design, heavy weight and use of cheap materials. Times have changed!
While this particular head/legs combination is aimed at the 'value' 'lightweight' video market, the head performs extremely well, and the legs outperform nearly all others in its price range. Compare this kit to the Sachtler FSB-4 kit at nearly half the price.
Because the head is continuous friction-drag dependent (viscous fluid between sandwiched Teflon), don't expect exact, repeatable dampening as found in the fluid module-based Sachtlers. Nor should you expect consistent drag in near-freezing conditions. But DO expect a smooth and solid performing tripod to suit most lightweight video/DSLR applications.
I highly recommend this tripod kit for HDSLR filmmaking.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
We always have used Manfrotto tripods, very reliable brand. Very solid construction.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Lightweight
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
The tripod is lighter than you expect it to be, and the bag it comes with is great. As for the tripod, it is made of top quality material. The ball mount is a must for videographers. Great package and for a great price.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Movies
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This is a very professional and affordable tripod+head for all purpose, it is pretty heavy so it works with a light camera like a DSLR or a heavy one like a broadcast or films camera.
I shot independent short films and commercials videos that have a lot of location moves on the same day so I need a fast set-up and a compact system and this one with the carrying case included does the job perfectly.
This tripod is completely well built, the head moves are really smooth and the knobs are very comfortable placed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Difficult To Adjust
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This is great for basic panning and tilting, although a bit heavy.
If I had to buy it again I would.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Locks In Tight
Cons
- Difficult To Adjust
- Heavy
- Slips Out Of Position
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this tripod for all of my filming needs. It is great that it comes in a bag to protect my investment. The only thing I don't like about it is that it is awkward sometimes to get in small spaces because of how big and bulky it is.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Difficult To Adjust
Best Uses
- Portraits
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Looks great. Head feels great with camera. really nice. The only thing is setting it up, extending the legs and so forth - that is where it was not as smooth or as nice as a Vinten or other high end tripod. small consolation considering the price difference...
Good buy - in my opinion.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Footing
- Solid
Cons
- Awkward
- Bulky
- Not very smooth
- Slips Out Of Position
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Immediately after receiving this product, I was a bit put off my how awkward and cumbersome the legs were. Nevertheless, I continued using the system and was reasonably pleased with it. After five months of using the tripod, I found that two of the tripod leg locks no longer function properly. As a result, I need to put tape on the legs to keep them from retracting. I'm going to be contacting B&H to return this tripod and will buy a Libec instead.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Quality build. Solid sticks. 501HDV fluid head OK for it's price, could be smoother.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Great kit! Took the head off and put it on a different set of sticks, but both do exactly what I need of them
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Spreaders & Dollies
- Price: $278.40
Bags & Cases
- Price: $255.80
What's in the Box
- 501HDV Pro Video Head
- 546B Pro Video Tripod w/Mid-level Spreader
- 520BALL 75mm Half Ball
- MBAG90PN Padded Tripod Bag
- 2-Year Warranty + Additional 3 Years w/Online Registration
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