Libec Tripods

I think the new bogen 501 and 503 are cheap as hell, the old model is where it's at if you're on a budget.

But, they aren't terrible by any means, they get the job done, haha.

Go with the carbon legs and 501.  Unless you're dead set on a ball head.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/549590-REG/Manfrotto_by_Bogen_Imaging__190CX3_Carbon_Fiber_Tripod.html

I would rather break my back carrying heavier sticks then have someone lightweight that isn't as beefy.

Here's why I'm so stoked on Libec's:

http://www.dvuser.co.uk/content.php?CID=150

Link fail.

http://www.dvuser.co.uk/content.php?CID=150

Well in that case, be different, go for the Libecs.  I've read good things about their affordable/cheaper line of tripods.

I think I may just go for it.

I just wanted an opinion from someone who has used a Libec.  I don't want to end up with another useless pile of metal.

i just got a 501, haven't got use it much at all, but seems nice and pretty solid.

So did I (kind of) until it started breaking on me?

You have low standards I guess.

kind of throwing this out there

If that is directed towards me, why would I want the same thing that just broke on me?  It has a 10 year warrenty so I can just get it replaced I guess.

I mean it is decent for your basic shots, but it CAN NOT handle advanced camera movements.  I need something that I can rely on, especially filming an action sport.

Lol no. I am aware of your problems with the provista. Just throwing it out there to someone else that might see this thread.

Oh yeah don't get me wrong, it is not the worst thing I've shot with....I'm ab;e to get some decent pans/tilts with it.

This is hopefully the last thing I filmed with it!

Black Friday Minute at Brad's from Fresh Perspective Films/ Steve N on Vimeo.

But it broke on me while filming.....

I have one of the cheaper libecs and i'm quite happy with it for ski filming.

Would you happen to know what model?

How do you like it?  Have you used a Bogen before?  What do you like better.

Sorry for all the questions and bumps, but this is a serious purchase for me.

I have this one: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/131444-REG/Libec_THM20_TH_M20_Aluminum_2_Stage_Tripod.html

Basically, if I didn't do any ski filming, I would probably own a different tripod. It does well for cinema stuff, but if I was using it strictly for shorts and stuff I'd get something beefier and smoother. However, the fact that it's reasonably light and easy to build up and take down makes the lack of a true fluid head worth it in my opinion.

The head is "semi-fluid" meaning that it's not a true fluid head but is pretty smooth.

When shooting skiing, I usually have the screws completely loose, which allows for a full range of motion. Sometimes I put a little weight on the spreader to keep it more secure, but basically when it's completely loose you can get whatever pans/tilts you want.

My style of tripod filming usually just involves me following the skier wherever he goes, rather than pans or tilts, but the tripod can do smooth pans as well, if you tighten it down a little more.

I absolutely love the tripod, but it's definitely not as smooth as the true fluid head, expensive ones. However, I've gotten every penny out of the $180 I paid for it.

i Have that bogen set up super legit and sturdy