I was on the B&H website scoping out new equipment. Just need some feedback from some of you guys. Bogen / Manfrotto | BO525MVB503K Video Tripod | 503HDV,525PKIT (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart_accessories&A=details&Q=&sku=493691&is=REG)

Not a fan of the 503HDV. I have it and it is a step up from my previous one, but there are much better ones out there. The sticks are nice.

If you're serious about dropping upwards of a grand on a tripod, I would strongly suggest looking at Vinten or Cartoni, or even Libec. Also, depending on the weight of your camera, you can find some Miller or even Sachtler systems for around that price-- give or take a hundred bucks.

This one Libec | LS38 Tripod System- Supports 17.6 lb (8 kg) | LS382A (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/444588-REG/Libec_LS382A_LS38_Tripod_System_Supports.html) will preform as good or better for $300 less.

I can attest that the Libec is much better.

T

I'll chime in with good words for the Cartoni. I upgraded from a $400 Libec and I was over the moon. Pans and tilts smoother than I ever could have done before. Great balancing. Very flexible.

Spend the money now and it will last you until you are old and it will make you a better shooter. My Focus cost about US$1,600. I was seriously tempted by the Vinten but my New England frugality (some would say cheapness) wouldn't let me part with those extra hundred dollar bills.

There's also a higher end Libec that's gotten some good reviews. Search the "Support your camera" list and you'll find some of them in there.

Good sticks are like speed (velocity, not the drug). Like they say in racing, "Speed costs money. How fast do you want to go?"