503HDV or 516 Pro for XL2
 

I am about to order a fluid head for my photo tripod (Giottos MT9370). I am using an XL2 with the 20x most of the time, but I also use it with the adpater with a 70-200mm f/2.8L IS. I am not sure of the actual weight, but it is a pretty heavy rig and I may eventually want to add a small (5.6) monitor.

My question is: would the 503HDV handle it or should I spend the exta $$ for the 516?

Least Expensive Tripod for XL2
 

I plan on getting an XL2 and am wondering if my Manfrotto 128LP fluid head ($90 link below) and Velbon EL carmagne 530 tripod legs ($200 link below) will hold-up OK with the XL2 or do I need to up-grade???

fluid head
Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging | 128LP Micro Fluid Head | 128LP

tripod legs
Velbon | EL Carmagne 530A Tripod Legs | ELCARMA530A | B&H Photo

If this setup is to weak please tell me what the least expensive setup is that will work with the XL2.

THANKS A LOT
CJ

Tripods
 

Hi Caleb,

I've only owned one tripod to use with our XL2, and its this one:

Libec | LS-22(2A) Professional Tripod System | LS-22(2A) | B&H

The weight capacity of the legs are just fine. (As I even use the legs with our Kessler crane setup.) What I get into trouble with is any camera movement whatsoever, panning or tilting. With our Libec LS22 setup, I struggle sometimes moving the heavy XL2 (with stock 20x lens, wireless receiver hooked up, and sometimes an on-cam light). The pans are okay, but the tilts can be a pain.

In my experience specifically with our tripod setup, I wished I would've bought at least the next model up:

Libec | LS-38M(2A) Professional Tripod System | LS-38M(2A) | B&H

Generally, you want a tripod fluid head that more than supports the weight of the XL2.

Best,

I've happily used the "Sunpak 7575" since i bought my XL2. It can handle the weight of the XL 2, it has two quick release plates and a smooth 3 pan system. The online pix don't do it justice.

It's only $80.00 It's big brother is $90.00.

When it comes to tripods, if your planning on being a pro camera guy someday, it would do you well to invest in a good pair of Sachtler or Vinten sticks. They're a lifesaver. Cheep sticks are cheep for a reason.

I've been using the Davis & Sanford ProVista V12 with the V12 Fluid Head, the fluid head makes a world of difference.