i use a miller solo carbon fibre ds20. amazing tripod and it goes incredibly low too.

Phil (love your stuff, BTW),

Would the ds20 still be a good choice for the EX1 without the added weight of 35mm adapters, lenses, rails, etc? The naked camera weighs-in at 6 lbs and the Miller is rated for 10/20 lbs.

The other option I'm considering is the Sachtler FSB-6. The problem with this is when (and if) I ever step up to the next level, the Sachtler won't handle the extra weight (13 lb max).

How much does your well accessorised rig weigh?

I weighed my EX with a Letus and a Nikon 80-200 at 15 lbs without matte box or follow focus so it could go up from there. I don't think a DV6 would be heavy enough for that .

I'm looking at a Miller Arrow 20, Sachtler 15 or 18. Pricey though. But at least I'll stop having clients complain about shakiness on the 200mm interviews.

Cartoni?
 

Anybody have any experience with the Cartoni Focus?

I have it, with Miller legs (i sold the A304 legs that came with it)

Nice for the money, but three issues:

100mm ball is nice, but necessitates bigger legs than are one might want - my miller carbon fibres are great, but I would have liked to get the smaller ones, which have a 75mm bowl.

When you finish a pan, and let go of the handle, the head reverses slightly. This is only an issue with long lenses, and is OK for an experienced operator, but it's not a trait you'd find on an O'Connor (which costs 8 times as much, by the way)

The pan bar is a bit flimsy and flexible for my taste.

But all in all, it's an excellent match for the EX1 - it balances and counterbalances perfectly.

I have the Focus and have used it for 2 years with the HVX200- same size as EX. It's a nice unit, and unlike Eric, I like the legs and the 100mm ball. I would never get 75mm. However for me it is not heavy enough for use of the lens at extreme telephoto,. It just isn't stable if I try to do a slight adjust on the longer lenses.

Likewise I like the 35mm adapters and that adds alot of weight - too much for the Focus. That's why I mentioned below that I am planning to upgrade.

Hi,

I have the manfrotto kit with 501HDV,525PKIT.
It is not that heavy and the 501 head is quite smooth, even if not as good as a real head, a lot pricier.
The 501 HDV have a "back force" which is just right for the EX1 alone.
I think it won't work with the whole set (ie : follow focus, 35mm adapter...).

Got it from ebay at 480€.

I have a Sachtler DV8....probably 4 years old.....don't know if its the same now. I think Sachtler makes great heads. I am on the second set of legs, some carbon ones which are nice and light but cannot go that low which is annoying. The Miller Solos are nice because of how low they can go.

yes it's perfect. I used it on my religion shoot with a naked ex1 and it's great. although it says 10/20lbs Miler say using a 7lbs Ex1 is perfect with it and it gives you the ability to use a DOF adaptor in the future on it

i have a focus if anyone wants to buy it off me!

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Phil. The only reservation that remains with the ds20 is the wind-up/bounce-back a few have reported. I've not noticed any of that in your shorts (yet an experienced operator can minimize the fault). Have you determined that more effort is required to prevent this with the Solo over comparable systems in this price range?

Really enjoy your blog and films (the word "video" just doesn't do your work or the EX1 justice). Very inspirational!

I also got a Manfrotto 501/525 setup since that was what could be afforded with the budget. However I don't care that much for the head as it's not as smooth as I'd like.

So I swapped out the head from my Vinten Pro Touch 130 which is much smoother. It gives me the best of both worlds: Legs that allow a center spreader (better than a bottom spreader when working in sand) and a decent head that doesn't stick when starting a slow pan or tilt.

The Manfrotto head is now on the Vinten legs, and will be used when we're doing two-camera shoots. It'll support the camera doing the wide master shot.

Hi Bill

Bank for buck it's the best tripod I have ever used. The head is beautiful and I do all my moves by holding the head, not the pan handle so maybe that is why I suffer no bounce back.

Also with the solo legs it goes so low its like having a hi hat!

Hi Laszlo,
Someone on another thread just recommended the DV6... googled it and up came this DVi thread. And... you're in Canada from the looks of it (I'm in Ottawa). Do you still have the tripod, and... how much do you want for it?
Malcolm

one stage vs two
 

the two stage leg setup allows you to get the camera closer to the ground than a single stage setup

Malcolm I tried to write to you, but the emails coming back underivable.
If you want just call me: 519-999-7171

Laszlo

Hi Laszlo... haven't been able to reach you by phone. Please email me at malcolm_hamilton@sympatico.ca
Cheers,
Malcolm

Quick Release Tripod Adaptor for EX-1?
 

Is there a quick release tripod adapter for the EX-1?
I'm used to a full size camera with a quick release adapter to easily switch between hand-held and tripod held.
Right now my options are to leave the tripod attachment screwed into the EX-1 or to constantly be screwing and unscrewing the attachment into camera.
I'm a little concerned about the threads on the bottom of the camera getting striped-out from constant screwing.
So for now I will leave the attachment on the camera. Most of my shooting will be from the tripod anyway.
A quick release tripod adapter for the EX-1 would make my life a lot easier.

Kevin Jones

Quick Release Tripod Adaptor for EX-1
 

Try this Bogen / Manfrotto 577 Quick Release Adapter . I purchased several of them and they are great.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...e_Adapter.html


Ron Frank

For greater support try the Protech product.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...:X:AAQ:US:1123
D Kane

I too am looking for a good tripod for an EX1 that we will be using in a corporate environment shooting in our cabinetry showroom and boardrooms. I have someone recommending the Manfrotto 503HDV head with a 351MVB2 tripod. I have had experience with Bogen a few years ago, and did not like the one we had. Any suggestions on something for us to shoot in kitchens mockups to shoot kitchen and bath cabinetry from eye level down to getting low and close to some of the cabinets to show the features of them. We had a few years ago the Vinten Vision 6 system, but that might be a little much for an EX-1 though. Money shouldn't be too much of an issue with my budget. Something 2000-2500 or less.

Any recommendations for my price and use?

Not that closer if you have middle spreader. But you can always get the camera higher.

Why do you say the Vision 6 is a little much for an EX-1? The camera is heavy enought for the Vision 6. It is an excelent head, but if you whant to spend less try the Vision 3. It is the same head but without counterbalance progressive control. Or you could consider the Cartoni Focus, very good head.

If you have the money don't buy the Manfrotto, I had one and always desliked it. It is ok for the price... but that's all!

I don't have any hands-on experience with the Vision 6, but based on the balance chart in the manual (see below), I always thought the counterbalance was too strong for cameras like the EX1, HVX200, etc. Are other people finding this is not true?

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d2...rt_vision6.jpg

Fluids heads that I would consider for the EX1:

- OConnor Ultimate DV or 515 (must find used; heavy head but best counterbalance system, same high-end construction and feel as larger OConnor heads)
- Vinten Vision 3
- Sachtler DV-6SB/FSB-6
- Cartoni Focus

I ruled out the Miller DS series because it really only has one drag setting and the counterbalance is too limited. I don't have much experience with Bogen heads so I can't say much there.

I'm using the EX1 on the Sachtler FSB6 with carbon-fiber legs (the 2 stage legs offered through B+H). It's a nice setup - I am really glad to have the carbon fiber, because I can't imagine carrying a tripod 4 lbs heavier than this for any distance (I do nature stuff, and sometimes hike alone with the camera in its Cinebags backpack and the Sachtler in its bag over my shoulder). The head balances easily with the EX1, and has plenty of capacity to be buttery smooth on pans and tilts. I looked around, and couldn't find anything lighter that would support the EX1 with any capacity to spare at all (there is a really light Manfrotto setup that uses a tiny (50mm?) bowl and has a capacity EXACTLY the weight of the EX1, which struck me as cutting it too close). The Sachtler setup is incredibly well built, as it should be for $1700 (and I thought that my $450 still photo tripod was expensive)?! I've never tried the EX1 on any other tripod, so I can't compare, but the Sachtler setup is certainly a good choice...

-Dan

I've never seen that graphic, my post was based on my experience with a HVX200 and a Vision 6. I didn't find the counterbalance too strong for the camera's weight. It had a matte box and a follow focus attached however...

I think the vision 3 supports lighter cameras with the weekest spring, but I would chose a head with a continuos counterbalance adjustment from 0 to x pounds. That's why I like the Cartoni Focus so much, it's a very adjustable head.

I went through this thing last November. I have the Sony Z1, and I eventually chose the Miller Solo DV DS10 Carbon Fiber because I wanted something smooth, versatile, and light. It weighs about 8.5 pounds vs. just under 12 for the FSB6 Carbon Fiber system.

That being said, there was a lot I liked about the FSB6, and it was a tough choice. I also got a chance to try the Bogens, and for small cams I actually found their less-expensive 501 HDV smoother! Go figure.

The 501 HDV is limited to about 8 pounds, but the FSB6 goes up to 13.2 pounds and gives you more growth room. The mechanics of it are different from the Bogen. The Bogen adjusts by putting more friction drag into the mix, basically tighting up on internal discs. The Sachtler has a gear shift system which runs the viscous damping elements faster. Without getting into engineering equations, viscous damping is better at smoothing motion than friction.

Tripod for EX1 with Letus Extreme + lense with Zacuto rail system
 

Hi there,
I am planning to buy the EX1 but want to use it in the future also with the Letus 35mm DOF adapters on the Zacuto rail system..
That means the total system will become much heavier than only the camera itself.
From stability and weight point of view, would it be enough to use a Sachtler System FSB6 or other 75mm fluid head. Would it otherwise be necessary to upgrade to a 100mm fluid head ? That would be an expensive upgrade...

The whole system should be perfectly balanced - but not heavily oversized. I like to keep as mobile as possible...;-)

Perhaps someone of the Letus users can answer, based on experience.


Thanks - although I am a newby on this forum, I enjoy the quality of discussions...

regards,

Ulli

I do event videography and have had a light weight single extension Sachtler for probably 20 years now and have always loved it. Quick, light and great head. Rated for about 14 lbs but I have used up to 20 lbs with various camcorder setups over the years as my style is to wrap the right arm under to help nudge with shoulder for tilts and be able to work the zoom with the right hand, (with it behind & over the zoom rocker, not through the grip strap) and focus with the left.

But I have needed all these years as well and finally bought this week a serious, solid, TALL tripod in the Bogen 3258. This well made black beast has a beefy center pole riser, but can hit over 7 feet high from dual extensions on the solid legs without even using the riser. Max height is 104"....pretty impressive. 17lbs without head. The head that seemed to make sense is the 503HDV which is rated up to 17 lbs and if you work with it carefully, seems like it can be "reasonably" smooth. The tripod utilizes, and the head of course accepts a threaded mounting stud. Plus the head is pretty reasonable at under $400. But it is no Sachtler.

I am curious as I just received the setup from B&H and could still swap out the head for something better if it didn't cost a whole bunch more, if there is anything higher quality that accepts that kind of mounting stud rather than being ball style? I don't have the funds and won't be using this tall setup often enough to justify spending a lot more for a head and would welcome any suggestions.

Thanks very much

Ron

After setting everything up with the new Bogen 3258 "supertall" and figuring best balance spot for the quick release plate, I played with all the drag and tilt friction settings with both a Sony DSR 300 SD and JVC HD200, and it seems like the 503HDV head will be servicable for the not too many times a year I'll need to use it. EXCEPT that annoying fault of lesser, not true fluid heads, of there being now after awhile, a tiny bit of play when starting pans. What's up with that? The head is screwed down tightly and anchored well with the set screws. Tilts are fine. It didn't seem like there was any play on pans at the outset, but now after about 20 minutes of movements with the camcorders it is there. Does anyone have any tips on what that is about and how to get rid of it?

Thanks

Ron

Hi Ron...........
 

When you say "play", do you mean the head actually moving without any apparent drag and then the drag kicking in?

If so, is it possible the culprit is the geared centre column on the 3258?

I've got a Velbon stills tripod with the same sort of arrangement, and unless the column lock is jammed on really hard it will display the same sort of "play" doing a pan (not that I use it for video).

It is, of course, possible for it to be the head itself. Ashok Mansur, another poster in these threads, has just reported similar play in a Manfrotto 519 head.

The best way to find the culprit is to set the head pan lock on hard and move the pan bar back and forth.

If the play is there with the pan lock on, it would appear to be a sticks problem.

If the problem refuses to show itself with the pan lock on, it looks like a head issue.

Best I can do for the moment.

Good luck.


CS

Bogen 503HDV / 3258 "Tall" Tripod Combo
 

Yes, I was referring to "very" slight travel on pans before the friction. The center pole is not an issue as it is all the way down and locked and very solid, unlike most other pole implementations. BTW, I can't say enough about the build quality of this Bogen 3258. It is a rock solid, "very" fine looking piece of equipment that will get you up to 104" if you need it. Over 7 feet without the pole!! This is the only one I was able to find that gets way up there, and only because I had borrowed one like it in the past. Very impressed. Plus it was like $470.

I think I may have improved the play situation last night by reseating the 503HDV head again. I loosened the set screws and this time really put some pressure (again with the pan lock engaged) on turning the head down as far as it would possibly go on the main threaded mounting stud, and then retightening the set screws.

At first it seemed as if that had taken care of any pan play, but then I again felt a couple times a very small movement. But this morning, due to your question about the pole, I just figured I would double check that and it is totally tight. This morning however, it seems I have no play at all on pans, and as long as the performance hovers between "zero" and "very slight" I will consider the Bogen 3258 / 503HDV to be a very fine, cost effective combination for TALL tripoding needs.

Tripod Help - Need Sound Advice ASAP
 

I need to pickup a tripod ASAP for a variety of gigs - however I still don't know which direction to go.

The Cartoni HiDV1 is the most I could possibly afford.

I currently have a 7.5lb rig but will be getting a matte box/rails/35mm adapter/etc. in the future.

So the question becomes 3-fold.

1. Seeing and all I will be needing a tripod that will be able to handle more weight down the road -- would anythign within my price range be future proof?

2. If not, which would be the best option for handling my current payload?

3. Would it be possible (as I still need to buy some more goodies for my cam and am now broke) to be able to use a 500 dollar setup functionally for weddings? If so what tripod would be best -- some people swear by the 503hdv, some say it is crap. Others say that Libec makes a professional product, etc.

Also -- I have seen online a Gitzo 1380 head with the 11lb spring setup which was moderately affordable. Does anyone have any experience with this head and have advice based upon my needs (my main concern is being able to professionally pan in telephoto for weddings) ? Does anyone know where to get replacement springs - as the one I found only has the 11lb variety? Does anyone know what would be a good cheap leg selection to throw under this head? (all of these other questions are based upon whether or not this head is any good)

Thank you immensely - Alex.

Can't afford Sachtler
 

I need to pickup a tripod ASAP for a variety of gigs - however I still don't know which direction to go.

The Cartoni HiDV1 is the most I could possibly afford (ruling out vision 3/all sachtler models/etc.)

I currently have a 7.5lb rig but will be getting a matte box/rails/35mm adapter/etc. in the future.

So the question becomes 3-fold.

1. Seeing and all I will be needing a tripod that will be able to handle more weight down the road -- would anythign within my price range be future proof?

2. If not, which would be the best option for handling my current payload?

3. Would it be possible (as I still need to buy some more goodies for my cam and am now broke) to be able to use a 500 dollar setup functionally for weddings? If so what tripod would be best -- some people swear by the 503hdv, some say it is crap. Others say that Libec makes a professional product, etc.

Also -- I have seen online a Gitzo 1380 head with the 11lb spring setup which was moderately affordable. Does anyone have any experience with this head and have advice based upon my needs (my main concern is being able to professionally pan in telephoto for weddings) ? Does anyone know where to get replacement springs - as the one I found only has the 11lb variety? Does anyone know what would be a good cheap leg selection to throw under this head? (all of these other questions are based upon whether or not this head is any good)

Thank you immensely - Alex.

Try the Support section of this site.

gitzo and b&h
 

alex,

since you're at westchester, go to B&H and try out all the legs and video heads they have on display. the pro video section also have them with camcorders and stuff. many reps are there to help too.

i just got the EX1 and ordered the 503HDV manfrotto head to go with either Gitzo 3540LS or Gitzo 3530S legs. both legs can handle 39lbs and the 503HDV can do 17.6lbs. that's plenty for my EX1, even with shotgun, lights, remote, and shade.

paul

I will undoubtedly be trying out whatever tripod is recommended to me before I purchase -- however want some advice for some people who have used them in the field to see how they hold up/perform in real world situations (not the bh floor).

Sachtler FSB 6 (I have) or maybe DV 6 head. I have the quick expanding legs (forget the name) but the SOOM legs seem interesting/versatile.

I could be wrong but isn't the FSB an extra few hundred from the cost of the cartoni?

Normally I wouldn't care -- but this budget is tighttttttttttttttt.

I'm not sure how Sachtler FSB compares to an equivalent Cartoni but the FSB series is less expensive than the Sachtler DV series. My head and legs were about $1700 at B&H.