Getting the HPX370 and all the trimmings... more or less.
 

I got approved today for a loan to purchase my new camera. I'm very excited. Quote requests were sent this after-noon. Here's what I should be of getting:

- HPX370 with two 64GB cards and a Fujinon Th13x3.5BRM wide lens
- Two EW100 ENG G3 kits with two countryman B6 lavs, a Sennheiser MD 46 interview mic, and a Rode NTG1 ambiance camera mic
- Two 190Wh Swit batteries with charger, and a Frezzi Mini-Sun Gun.
- A monopod and a large backpack style camera bag

All that's missing is a nice set of sticks... but I have no idea what to get. I have an old and defective Bogen 503 head... ouch... that won't do.. even if I have it repaired. Any suggestions?

I was also contemplating on getting a Lectrosonics wireless kit: Dual receiver, plug-on, and belt-pack... but it's really starting to adds up, and I was wondering if the G3 kits are "good enough". Any thoughts?

It sounds as if you will have some stuff hanging off of your 370 like wireless mic receivers, batteries and a sun gun so you will need a quality tripod/head combo. I would be looking at Sachtler. I have a discontinued model, the DV-6SB and it handled the 300 really nicely.

Forget Bogen. You want a Sachtler, O'Connor, Panther or something along these lines. Vintens, I like their expensive ones but I don't like their lower lines. Miller? Eh, they are okay but don't thrill me. I would buy a Sachtler for your new setup. If you take care of it, it will last you probably your next 3-4 cameras. I am on my third camera with my Sachtler and it is still going strong.

Dan