Recommendations for a carbon fibre tripod and head for V1?
 

This title says it all. I need to purchase a very light weight tripod for regular travelling abroad, hence weight is an issue. I need it to be about 50cm's in length when collapsed and have a height of about 1.3m+. Obviously carbon fibre springs to mind for the legs. However I also need to pair it with a suitably compact and lightweight head with a fluid motion (actual fluid head is not necessary). My budget is around $1000 - 1500 (£500-750). So please can someone throw some brands and model numbers at me so I can head off and start investigating?

Thanks.

I have been looking for the same thing.

A very nice head I have found is the Gitzo 2180:
http://www.gitzo.com/Jahia/site/gitz...CleanList=true

It weighs .6kg and holds 4kg and costs about $250US.

There are several Gitzo legs that would be excellent.
The most compact is the Traveler GT1540 AND GT1550:
http://www.gitzo.com/Jahia/site/gitz...CleanList=true
They weigh 1 kg and fold to 15". Cost for $650 or so.

Here is the Gitzo page to look for a Video appropriate tripod. A series 2 tripod is probably about what you would like for size, sturdiness and weight. The Series 1 tripods are a little less weight and sturdy. The Travelers are Series 1. (Gitzo doesn't list these in the Video section.)

For the Gitzo stuff, to fully appreciate the options (center column, leveling, locks, sturdiness, dimensions and weight) it is necessary to see them in person. However, this weekend I looked at many tripods from several manufacturers, and in your price range, I think you could find something from Gitzo that would be perfect.

Here is the Gitzo Leveling Tripod. It folds to 25.6" and weighs 3.5 lbs. It has a level and a column that can be leveled within a kind of bowl. It's a Series 2. Gitzo makes other Series 2 models that don't have the leveling column that fold a little less. On the standard Gitzos the column is removable to reduce weight or size and also to setup up the tripod within inches from the ground.
The Giztos also have a hook on the center column for hanging a weight.

Manfrotto also makes some inexpensive, lightweight semi-fluid heads. However, for a true fluid head that works great and is so light weight, nothing I've seen approaches the Gitzo 2180.

Here is the main Gitzo product page:
http://www.gitzo.com/Jahia/site/gitzo/pid/4765

Gitzo has an excellent product book that explains and details every tripod and head. If the dealer doesn't have a certain model, it can be looked up in the book and compared to something the dealer may have (for general size, stability, weight and features.)

Here's a Gitzo that may be exactly according to your specs, the GT2541L:
http://www.gitzo.com/Jahia/site/gitz...detailPid=5301

It's 24" folded. It weighs 3.3 lbs. It has a center column. For another $20 or less there is a bubble level available from Gitzo:
http://www.amazon.com/Gitzo-Glevel-P...101897&sr=8-41

Here is a breakdown for costs I've found:
GT2541L legs $ 650
G2180 head 250
GLevel 2 20
TOTLAL $ 920

And it all weighs slightly less than the V1.

I would like to know if there are other/better options for this kind of setup for traveling.

Here's the Gitzo catalogue in PDF format. There are links to English, German, French, Italian and U.S.A. versions:
http://www.gitzo.com/Jahia/site/gitzo/pid/14049

IMHO if you want to achieve results, you cannot avoid weight.
I use this Sachtler head, 2.4kg
http://www.sachtler.co.uk/index.php?...lag=tech_facts

It is same weight as the only acceptable Gitzo fluid head. To avoid "spring" effect of the legs, you may need to avoid Gitzo tripods developed for photography - the above listed ones are for still work.
I have nothing against Gitzo, in fact I use a CF Gitzo leg with a 75mm bowl.
Proper (and fast) leveling is essential in the field.

When I travel, I reduce weight of other things, including clothes. You would be surprised how heavy some clothes might be. No kidding. It is very easy to save 1-2kg extra on clothes.

I only take 2 shirts and one short and 2 underwear with me. I can recommend Ex-Officio clothing, you wash and they are dry in 1-2 hours - yet its very pleasant to wear them even in the tropics.

An inadequate tripod is less useful than no tripod at all. There are alternatives. Such as the Cinesaddle http://www.tvcameramen.com/reviews/cinesaddle.html
You might mount a fluid-head on a clamp or bracket that can be attached to fences, walls, trees with bungy-cord or whatever. None of these will replace a good tripod, but can be easier to carry.

EDIT: see also http://www.birnsandsawyer.com/cgibin...talogno=280000

and http://www.eventdv.net/Articles/Read...rticleID=11476

and http://www.abelcine.com/store/produc...4&cat=0&page=1

The Cinesaddle comes in 3 sizes, which may not be made clear in the various links.

I'm not sure wearing two T-Shirts made out of Tofu is the best solution to carrying a heavy tripod long distances with lots of other equipment. Especially in the tropics I would think wearing a single tofu T-Shirt would be sufficient:
http://www.exofficio.com/tofutech/

Where I'm going the temperatures will average -20C, so even three Tofu T-Shirts won't be adequate.

Regarding the CineSaddle, go to this website (a sponsor) and search for the word "Saddle.":
http://www.abelcine.com/store/home.php
I think there are 5 different ones (2 very little ones). The $25 price is for a rental.

I own a Cinesaddle, a size down from the original, and it is perfect for my PD150 (which is the same size as the V1). However, despite the fact that the inventor claims the CinseSaddle is a "tripod killer," it isn't. There is still use for a tripod. Three issues may come up: getting it the right height without something to set it on; getting and keeping it level; panning and tilting with more than one than a single, practiced motion. A tripod still has it's uses.

As for the Gitzo tripods, I and Gitzo differ about their use for lightweight camcorders such as the V1. As I suggested in my previous post, I suggest going to a store and seeing them. The tiny 2180 fluid head is designed for field scopes, but it also is listed for and works with video cameras (with a weight limit of 9 lbs. -- the V1 wieghs 4 lbs.). A popular comination (as shown in the Gitzo catalog on page 49 - see link to catalog above) is the 2180 on GT2540 LVL Series 2 legs. The tripod is rated for 26 pounds (which allow the addition of 20 pounds to the column hook) and the head is rated a 9 lbs., while the V1 is a little over 4 lbs. (Gitzo has heavier options, but my original suggestions were within the original posters requirements. The Leveling tripod, as opposed to the version I suggested, folds to a little longer than 24 inches.)

I also own the Gitzo G01381 fluid head and it is great in many weighs, but one of them is not lightweight. The carbon fiber stix Gitzo makes for this head are very nice though and come in the very sturdy Series 3, 4 and 5.

I also own the Cartoni Action Pro, which would be suitable for the V1. It weighs in at 4-1/4 lbs. with handle. However, it needs a 75mm bowl.

Slik makes some interesting lightweight units, but not of the quality of the Gitzo.

Bogen/Manfrotto has a pseudo-fluid head that is very small and lightweight and would work.

Of course, if you are a video production team with assistants, get the biggest and best video head and tripod available, and have one of the ttrainees carry it up and down the mountains.

However, the original poster was looking for something lightweight, even if it wasn't a real fluid head, so I came up with a professional answer that is super lightweight.

Also note that a Gitzo Series 2 tripod may not be ideal always when fully extended. However, if you are doing fast pans, tilts, etc. (following humming birds?) the tripod can be used collapsed and be as sturdy as something 5 times heavier.

On the small Gizto head you can also use one of the longer locking plates so had more stability to the camera.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++
In any case, if anybody has better ideas for carbon fiber, lightweight, fluid, please say so, because that is what I'm looking for, too.

For a 3 lb. head, Gitzo makes the G2380 which is flat-based and very nice in operation, with a much larger flat aread for the camera. It is only about $220.

(Note: As expensive as they seem, I highly recommend the Cinesaddles. They are totally lightweight, well made and work in an instant in all kinds of situations where nothing else will.)

Regarding the Gitzo legs Zsolt says he uses above, I looked at this with all the others I looked at, and they are fantastic. There is nothing I've seen by anyone that compares in sturdiness, lightweight, options for use and sleekness in a tripod that will take eight a 75mm or a 100mm bowl.

Ideally I would have the heavier Series 3 legs with bowls for my 75mm and 100mm bowl heads, and an entirely lightweight setup for light travel, quick moving around while using, etc. though as said above, are not ideal for an all-around tripod setup.

Unfortunately, in the carbon fiber Gitzo range, the smaller and heavier legs are pretty close to the same price and don't lend themselves to multiple purchases... especially when you already have several heavy leg sets... but all of which are way to heavy for routine airtravel.

Nigel,

As you live in Europe, have a look at this site, maybe you find something suitable
Panther have bought the firm of Heiler-Filmtechnik. (Mr. Heiler sen. was co-owner of Sachter & Wolf)

http://www.panther-gmbh.de/en_bc_tripods.html

volki

Want a lightweight tripod, look no further than a Miller Solo. Carbon fibre legs with no spreader and it goes very high and very, very low. For the V1 the DS5 head would do.
Miller aren't the worlds best tripods or heads but for the money excellent value, they've survived March Of The Penguins and been through hell in the tropics and deserts.
Just ignore the Arrow range, IMO Miller went backwards with them.

I agree Bob, the Solos are great. They are actually identical to my Gitzo 1325V with the only difference being they have a plastic foam cover which the Gitzo does not.
Unfortunately in Europe Miller has inappropriate network of distributors. I have not found any suitable dealer who sell the Millers online.

Apart from all these, I will always have a better place for my 350 bucks, than a bean bag...

Thanks guys, a lot of really useful info to consider. Now I think I need to actually see/feel some of these models in the flesh. Anyone know of a large cross range supplier based in/around London/Kent in the UK?

try http://www.robertwhite.co.uk/

They are reliable...although they dont usually have always everything on stock. They shipped my stuff to Hungary with no hassle. I bought my Gitzo legs from them.

Do you Zsolt ,or anyone else, have an opinion regarding the smaller Sachtler heads like the DV-2 II?

http://www.millertripods.com/product...&productID=181

enough said....

leslie

I used a DV2-II on a rental once, had it under a Z1 for about 8 days of shooting.

It's not a bad little head at all. It has the nice smooth Sachtler pans like the bigger ones, little to no sticktion at the start of a move.

Unfortunately it does not have many choices for settings. Fluid is either on or off, no further adjustments are possible. For what I like, I didn't consider buying one. I believe you have to move up to the DV6 or DV8 to get multiple drag settings.

For the same reason I finally ended up with ordering the DV6 regardless heavier weight and higher price.

A head usually serves a number of cameras, so buying a good one is an investment you wont regret. For balancing V1 correctly I suggest you to get a long camera plate (sold separately) that allows front-back adjustment.

Here is an article on choosing the right tripod and head.

http://www.dvuser.co.uk/tripods.php

And you may also consider Libec LS38 - it turned out to be a nice gear in this review, while its price is impressively low.

http://www.dvuser.co.uk/content.php?CID=150

I hope these articles will help.

There are two distinct types of setups in this thread. The several tripods and heads suggested in the last few posts will come in at 10 or more pounds and be 32 inches long or longer.

When I talk about lightweight for travel (put in a carry-on or medium suitcase, the total weight for me (both head and tripod) needs to be under 4 pounds and be less than 24 inches long -- preferably less than 22 inches long.

I am talking about a very specialized setup, not a setup for general use.

Regarding the Cinesaddle... it is well worth the money if you have a need for it. It is commonly used by news crews and by people in very fast moving situations where a tripod is both impossible to carry and much, much to involved to set down and get a shot. The Cinesaddles are exceptionally well made and give an instant platform on anything from a skateboard to a barrel cactus, on the back edge of a theater seat, on a music stand, or tied (with the mounting kit) to the hood of a car. They work great for tracking shots as they are pushed along handrails, etc. etc. etc. And the Cinesaddles are featherweight. They also work great as stools.

However, as I said before, they don't replace a tripod for standard shooting.

I've played with it a bit...for a baby lightweight head, it's not bad at all.

It only gives you two choices of drag on the pan and tilt, though...sort of no resistance, and a bit of resistance. For not much more money, the DV-6 head felt a lot smoother.

The DV6 is a little heavier, and almost overkill for a Z1/V1 camera, but a great pro head.

Gitzo 2180 with the Manfrotto 756B legs (not carbon fiber); works like a charm. The other day I needed to walk a couple of kilometers, climb up a small steep rocky mountain and operate the V1P in a howling very gusty up to perhaps 80 k/h nor-wester. Not quite as smooth as my Cartoni Action Pro but did the trick. As Zsolt Gordos tells us ‘if you want to achieve results, you cannot avoid weight’ and in these conditions I agree with him but you don’t always need to carry it with you. I popped a 5 kg rock, more or less, in a plastic bag and hung it under the camera attached to the legs using a bit of number 8 wire I fashioned into a crude S hook and Bob’s your uncle; did the trick. Oh yes, the 5 kg rock was there up the hill and there it remains. Without the rock the tripod and V1P would have been blown over and down the mountain.

The Gitzo 2180 with the Manfrotto 756B legs is light-weight, smallish, and so far has been a very useful addition to my bag of tools. There is no way I would have carried my Cartoni Action Pro to this shoot and I do not have the luxury of a porter.

Thank you for this report. I am glad to hear the the Gitzo 2180 works okay. Of everything I have seen, this head has been the best I've seen for an absolutely light head (about 1 lb.).

The tripod you used also looks very interesting. For its size it comes in a little heavier than a carbon fiber, but at 1/3 to 1/4 the price. It also looks good as a second tripod as it has features that work well with a still camera.

I went ahead and purchased the Gitzo G2180 fluid head and GT1540 legs. Overall the set up is very light compared to my current tripod of similar dimensions. However I have to say that I am rather disappointed with the head. To call it 'fluid' is somewhat misleading, if you know how a true fluid head reacts. The pan and tilt drag is pretty much an 'on' 'off' type of mechanism with very little scope in between. Also there is a considerable amount of stiction on this head. Inevitably it will do 80% of the job I purchased it for, but overall I would warn others that they are giving up a substantial amount of fluidity/smoothness if they choose this head.

This is what Gitzo says about this head:

"The G2180 is fine tuned for use with medium sized spotting scopes, but is also ideal for DSLRs with long lenses and or compact DV camcorders."

The information is somewhat misleading. Probably its suitable for a beach holiday movie, definitely not for pro application.

And this head has nothing to do with anything "fluid". It is a friction head, with all the problems coming with that.

In my opinion this information is highly misleading, sorry and no offense intended Zsolt. For how many hours shooting have you used the Gitzo 2180 head to enable such a put down. When a piece of equipment such as a tripod head is called “pro’ or ‘not pro’ I have to wonder about the snobbery factor. Such a characterization is a bit silly and quite unhelpful for folks looking for buying advice be they pro or whatever. I compared my Bogen / Manfrotto 3460 (503) with the Gitzo 2180 and regarding smoothness I prefer the Gitzo 2180. I also compared my Cartoni Action Pro with the Gitzo 2180 and regarding smoothness I prefer the Cartoni Action Pro.

I should add that to set up the Gitzo 2180 to perform at its best requires a, dare I say, ‘professional touch’ so it is not fool proof by any means. But please remember the context here; ultra-lightweight heads that are actually usable. The Gitzo 2180 is that, in my experience, and I would hope that folks reading this thread down the road are not inclined to rubbish the Gitzo 2180 for the wrong reasons. For the price/weight/functionality I have yet to find anything better for use with my V1P when the going gets rough and it’s uphill all the way.

If there is a better head that weighs 2.2 lbs. or less, please let me know. I have to buy one within the week.

The only comparable head I have found is the Bogen 701RC2:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...luid_Head.html

The Bogen is actually slightly lighter than the Gitzo. However, it doesn't allow for using a long plate and it doesn't seem to operate as well as the Gitzo.

The Bogen legs that match the 701 are almost twice as heavy (4 lbs.) as comparable Gitzo legs (2.2 lbs.).

The carry-on restriction I have to deal with is 13 lbs. on one airline and 18 lbs. on the other. I have to take an XH-A1 (or V1U, not clear yet which), wide angle lens, a DSLR, flash units and some associated accessories and the tripod and head in the carry-on.

Some adjustments can by made by carrying things in coat pockets, etc. However, I don't think I'll get away with a 10 pound tripod head in my pocket.

An additional concern is that everything must pack. Nothing must give away that I am carrying camera equipment when it is not in use.

I looked at a very fine carry-on bag that is advertised as looking like regular luggage, having security features, etc. the main selling point is that it meets all size requirements for international air travel. But the bag weighs over 13 lbs. with nothing in it! This is over my carry-on weight limit. Besides that, it is only 5 lbs. shy of the Lufthansa carry-on weight limit of 18 lbs., and I consider Lufthansa the premiere airline for total global travel.

But back to the tripod issue, if I could carry a 20+ pound tripod in it's own bag, I wouldn't be taking the under 5 pound XH-A1. (I do own a Cartoni Action Pro, Cartoni Alpha and a Gitzo 1380, with matching legs.)

Perhaps I could check the tripod? The only trouble here is that I have to carry lights, stands and a host of other accessories. My total weight limit is 50 lbs. for _all_ checked luggage, including a few clothes, etc.

So, I need the equipment to tape interviews, to raise the light on a stage with only work lights, (one part of the work), and then the cameras and tripod and necessary extras in an anonymous bag for walking around and taking public transportation.

I haven't paid for it yet, but the Gitzo 2180 "spotting scope" head looks like the best option from what I've seen.

Please let me know also. I shall certainly be watching this space. Lightweight high tech is good. Along with smooth, adjustable, ultra-smooth to the finest degree...that I can carry load-free wherever I want to go. That's my tripod!

Jack, you have a serious logistics problem to deal with it seems. Try the Gitzo 2180 if you haven't already done so and see if it meets your needs, see if it might be a handy tool to have in the box.

Seems like a fun project you have on the go; good luck and enjoy...