Miller Tripod Price Reductions
 

B&H Photo's June catalog indicates that the prices of Miller's DS-5, DS-10 and DS-20 tripod systems have been significantly reduced to $699.95, $849.95 and $1,699.95, respectively. Miller tripods are outstanding. The DS-10, in particular, is darn near ideal for XL1/XL1s shooters and includes a well-designed padded case. I would imagine that this is a manufacturer's price reduction that would be reflected at all dealers eventually.

This is a rather painful announcement for me since, you guessed it, I purchased a DS-10 system less than a year ago for $1,200 :-( . Nevertheless, since tripods are a frequent topic of interest here, I would imagine that this news would be of general interest to many folks considering such a purchase.

The fluid head pricing among manufacturers befuddles me. B&H sells the Miller DS-20 head for $1059, the Sachtler DV-8 for $1940, and the Gitzo 1380 for $874. All three support 20 lbs. loads.

IMHO, the Sachtler is not the overpriced unit. That would be the Gitzo. In 10 deg F weather, its smoothness left much to be desired. Thus, based on Ken's recommendation, I opt for the Miller on a CF tripod (extra bucks). Please, nobody tell me I should have ordered the Sachtler.

Marc,
Which Miller head did you select? What camera will you be using with it?

I have a Miller DS-10 and a Sachtler DV-6. While the Sachtler features more adjustability than that particular Miller, the Miller is a good, reliable head for its rated loads. I think you'll be very happy with it.

<<<-- Originally posted by Ken Tanaka : Marc,
Which Miller head did you select? What camera will you be using with it? -->>>

DS-20. I'd like to be able to mount an Anton Bauer battery, DVX100, light and mic, which should bring the load close to 10 lbs. But more, I'm planning ahead for a better ENG camera, needing up to 20 lb load rating.

The tripod is the expensive part- a miller carbon fiber DS-2 with mid-level spreader, rated for a 50 lb load (good for jibs). Combined price was $2229 at B&H. I think this is a very good deal. (It went out of stock after I ordered).

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...=179047&is=REG