Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System
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Discontinued
Availability Details
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This item has been discontinued by the manufacturer and is no longer available.
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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 144 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
95%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Stable (81)
- Lightweight (48)
- Unfolds quickly (40)
- Folds away (28)
- Smooth movement (28)
Cons
- Heavy (36)
- Cumbersome (13)
- Difficult to adjust (4)
- Heavy / bulky (3)
Best Uses
- Movies (62)
- Stabilization (56)
- Video (32)
- Weddings (22)
- Outdoors (16)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Film professional (53), Tech savvy (36), Aspiring film maker (31), Semi-pro photographer (15), Pro photographer (14)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (130), Yes (4)
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.
Reviewed by 144 customers
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Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
If you have found another off-brand for $200, you will get what you pay for.... This is THE tripod to have for video production. Standardly, I'm a shoulder-shooter, but adding in these epic slow pans mixed with some rack focusing has rocketed my video production.
I also use my cine-slider with it, but only with the weight of my 7D - I'm sure it could handle the weight of my DSLR rig and more, but my cine-slider needs some adjustments before I can test that - bet a sandbag would fix any minor weight distribution if any at all.
No bad words here.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
It migh ttake a while to get used to setting this tripod up quickly but once situated, it's a very stable platform.
Pros
- Folds Small
Cons
Best Uses
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This design is better than the previous. The hardware is sturdier
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I was having difficulty with this tripod and Canon DSLR's, when someone enlightened me on how to fix it.
If you are having trouble with the knob to tighten your camera into place, take the camera off the tripod, turn the locking knob all the way tight, then with an Allen wrench, remove the knob cover (without turning the knob itself) rotate it one or two notches and put it back on. This is probably obvious to most people, but I didn't figure it out. Hope that helps someone.
Great tripod for the price.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Eleven Mass Media
Re-align this knob, and it will work great.
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Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this tripod for weddind and seminars.
I like reliable design and stability with my SONY AX-2000.
And I can make footage with its item like with monopod in move.
This's great product! Thanks, Manfrotto!
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Unfolds Quickly
- Very stable tripod
Cons
- Expensive
- Sometimes hard to fold
Best Uses
- Movies
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this product for my two video cameras. I bought this as a back-up, but it became my #1 baby once I got it. I first relegated it to number 2, which is why I bought it. But after using it a few times, it bacame #1. I had no idea how good it was when I bought it. Specifically, the legs have a very independent extension, so they offer more flexibility than most other legs.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
For most events social , comercial ,, the best tripod ever , at low cost.pan and steady, cant ask for more!!! Go Manfrotto!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- Hard to open
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I use this tripod for filming School Events and Weddings. The tripod head is great for the prosumer cameras and is extremely smooth. I like that these legs go a little higher than the old version of this tripod - however, I find that the levers you open to extend the legs are rather hard to open and close. Hopefully with some more use, they will loosen up a bit. That is my only complaint.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I would highly suggest this tripod! I shoot on a 60D and a Sony Z5U and it works perfectly for both. I like that this is a solid tripod; it's heavy, without a doubt.
The weight, in my opinion is a good thing, this tripod doesn't bounce and it settles into uneven ground nicely. Well worth the money!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Flexible and fluid
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
It's a little heavy duty (it's actually light for what it can do) and difficult to set up or take down alone, but overall a fantastic combination. It allows you to get very high, very low or somewhere in-between and move the camera fluidly. Good for video and possible to set up solo, but is much easier with another person.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
Cons
- Cumbersome
Best Uses
- Church services
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I bought the 501 based on a more knowledgeable colleague's recommendation. It was the best investment I could have made in a tripod. Having used several different ones I was excited to see that it was better than many of it's more expensive bigger siblings.
The price point is utterly amazing for what you get; a compact head that holds virtually any camera for the contemporary reporter, and budget minded indie filmmaker.
The only issue is the fact that may take an extra second or two in order to set it up. But give the fact that this is one of the best tripods that I have used I think it is forgivable.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tripod is simply great. Way too expensive for me, but I bought it and I am happy (still not with the price). I have a Panasonic dvx100b and needed a tripod that could ensure fluidity and balance in my pans and this succeeded with flying colors. The camera is stable and firm and I could adjust the strength of firmness. It rises to 6ft and does not lose any quality. I am very happy with its performance, and I did not want to take a chance in buying or taking a chance on a $200 tripod. True, I'm sure there is a great tripod for $200 out there or less, but without being able to test every single one and not being able to take online reviews for truth I had to pay the price and it was worth it (although I still think it wouldn't hurt to come down on the price a lil.).
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Center spread adjustment
Best Uses
- Movies
- Photo video
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
The product is great the service was even better. The adjustable legs are simple and fast to get up and down. Very compact and easy to use heavy duty carrying bag . I recommend it for any novice to get before the pro model. It is strong and durable. The slip on and off foot covers makes it easy to use in dirt or on a nice hard wood floor, or any slippery floor at that. The feet grips are strong. I used it on top of a wet roof of a car late a night had no problem with the tripod slipping off the uneven surface. The head comes off so you can use it on a top hat to get low. I don't even think the need for a top hat is necessary unless you are in very tight quarters because the legs extend to get you as low as possible before the head mount tightening screw hits the floor. I was impressed with it.
The only bad comment I have is how the spreaders are adjusted the screws are confusing and at first you may think it is broken but I assure you pull in towards the center while screwing tight. It would appear you need to pull it towards the legs but yiou have to go toward the center.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Heavy
- Weak Construction
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
When first opening this item I thought wow this sucker is heavy! You definately don't want this for "on the go" shooting.
On a good note I really liked the Heads function from able to leveling it and the fluidity of it.
I didn't like the plastic locks for the legs. needs WD40 to loosen up.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Images shared by Jeffrey J.
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Pros
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I have other Manfrotto products... it is not about the brand. This tripod was so heavy that I send it back the same day it arrive at my door.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
Cons
- Cumbersome
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Great tripod. I'm shooting short films with it. it would be better to get the 504HD head but the 501HDV is ok for its price.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
- Slider mount
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I love this setup. You can't beat it for the price. The legs are strong enough for my Canon C300 with a 'Permanently' mounted glidetrack setup. With the weight and long lens setup, I can still get smooth shots with no shake caused by weak tripod legs.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Cumbersome
Best Uses
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
Exactly what I need for an all in one inclusive deal. Quick to set up and balance. very durable Tripod and Smooth Tripod Head.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Movies
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
This tripod does the job, I use it with my 7D plus accesories, and it handles the weight nicely. It's a great tripod for the price, I only wish i'd be lighter but for the price it's way better than other tripods in the price range.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Movies
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 501HDV Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System:
I run a film company and this is my second purchase of this setup I do use a 504 head on one of the setups and it is by far the best bang for your buck a solid piece of equipment.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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Spreaders & Dollies
- Price: $269.95
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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