The Manfrotto 503HDV professional video head weighs 1.9 kg and supports payloads up to 8 kg. Bogen Imaging said the model updates its predecessor technically, ergonomically and visually for HD and HDV production.
A four-stage counterbalance can be set to off, 1.3 kg, 2.6 kg or 3.9 kg, allowing operators to balance different camera weights and configurations.
Locks and drag controls for pan and tilt are positioned on the left and rear of the head. The control knobs and levers use different shapes to support operation by touch.
The continuously variable fluid cartridges for pan and tilt are retained from the previous model. Manfrotto strengthened the pan-handle rosette and added a replaceable intermediate rosette that users can exchange if it wears. The 3/8-inch threaded base mounts on 75 mm or 100 mm half-balls. A quick-release system and reversible pan handle are also carried over.
The 503HDV,525PKIT tripod combination provides a working height from 43.5 to 167.5 cm and weighs 5.45 kg. Its recommended price including VAT is €890. The 503HDV head alone costs €369.
