WHAT - Manfrotto 503HDV fluid head
WHO - Designed for professional video producers using smaller form factor professional camcorders weighing up to about 10 pounds or so. Examples include Panasonic DVX100/HMC150/HVX200, Sony Z1/Z5, Canon GL2/XL2/XLH1/AH1.
WHEN - Previously owned a 503, I purchased the upgraded 503HDV in late 2008.
HOW - I use this tripod for virtually every production. It is just so versatile. It has so many useful features you just don't see on a cheap (er...inexpensive, I should say) fluid head in this price category.
As mentioned, I previously owned a 503 head and upgraded to the 503HDV head later on. The differences between the older and new versions made the additional cash output worthwhile.
It has a selectable load knob, which allows you to tailor the balance of the head to your total camera payload. There's even a setting to disengage the balance altogether. Some high end tripod heads incorporate this function but require moving springs in and out. Turning a knob is quite simple.
The controls on this head are in the right place, too. The tightening and drag knobs for tilt are located on the left side (which is where they should be).
One very unique and useful feature is the incorporation of a bubble level with an LED light. So you can actually view the thing in dark and dim working environments - not to unusual a situation.
I use a matched 2 stage tripod with this head, also from Manfrotto. Not much to say about the tripod, it does what it should do and did not break the bank.
Some things I don't like...the left pan handle (optional) does not mount directly to the head, at least mine didn't. A spacer (available from Manfrotto directly, cost of about $12) is required if you intend to use both pan handles. Also, the tightening knob/screw for the quick release plate is not adjustable. Many of these type devices - even on other Manfrotto heads - allow you to pull out the tightening screw and adjust the position by rotating around and releasing. Can't do that on this one, and it's a minor inconvenience but an inconvenience that should not exist anyway.
WHERE - A theme you will notice in my posts is that I pretty much always refer to B&H for equipment purchases. They are well known, trusted and usuallly the best price. And shipping is always very quick, very well packed and affordable (or free, in many instances). Used options are also available. In fact, if you can find a used one for 10% or more off of the cost of buying new, it's a good deal. These things don't usually wear out like a camera or other device might, so used ones are usually just as good as new.
I actually purchased mine as a used item...however, it had not actually been used, and was just one of these situations where a guy bought it, thought he needed it, then needed to get rid of it before he ended up using it. So I paid about $75 less than buying new, very good deal for me.
Overall, this head is the best bang for your buck. The similar but lower priced 501HDV head does not offer the same features (and is actually a friction drag, NOT fluid drag) and is better suited to shots that will be stationary. For good pan/tilt functionality and overall great features, I'd recommend paying the few extra dollars for the 503HDV.
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