Hello people!

I have this tripod, and because its pans are really bad, I was wondering wich head shall I go for? Are all the heads the same and can fit the tripod base? I mean, I was looking at Manfrotto 501HDV. Will this do the job? Cheers!

501 isn't the greatest. What camera is it for?

501 isn't the greatest. What camera is it for?

Canon EOS 600D and canon EOS 60D

Hi George,

The 501HDV isn't that bad, it's OK for wide angle work and can suffice. Plus, if it's all your budget can buy, then there's no point dreaming of Vinten! I've used my 501HDV a lot with smaller cameras and you can get by, and smooth pans are possible. Telephoto work is difficult, but wider angles are fine.

The 501HDV has a normal flat base with screw mount.

The head won't help any problems with the legs, though. If they are not stable, or wind-up/twist as you pan, then that problem will still be there.

Sure, high price Vintens and Sachtlers are where you want to be... but if you can't afford it, and can work with the limitations, you can get by with this head.


Edit: I just checked the Weifang 717 tripod. It appears to be a ball mount head, not a flat base. If that is the case, you will need to get the Manfrotto half ball adapter.

Spec here: http://www.weifengchina.com/pro/index_show.asp?id=1313

Confirms that it is a 75mm bowl.

If you want to mount a flat head tripod like the 501HDV on these tripod legs, you will need something like this: http://www.manfrotto.com/product/0/520BALLSH/_/520BALLSH_75Mm_Short_Half_Bowl

You may also be able to remove the ball part of the Weifeng head and use that, but I've never handled one and can't comment.