Pro video blog…Produced by Philip Johnston DoP/Editor


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Manfrotto have just sent me their new MVH-500AH tripod head to review…here are my findings.

500-side

Firstly unlike the latest range of “bridge technology” tripod heads who all have a 75mm – 100mm ball head the MVH500AH is the first of the new generation to sport a flat head.

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The flat head design is very useful for all of us who use sliders like the glide track GT hybrid and for DSLR users.

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The tilt is locked in position using this nice large rotary button on the side and note the “Easy Link” 3/8” connector to allow an external monitor or other accessory equipment to be fitted.

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You also get a “500P LONG” tripod plate which travels to balance the latest interchangeable lens cameras. The entry-level 500 ensures smooth shots and fine control with up to 5kg (11lbs) of equipment. It’s the most compact head in the Bridging Technology™ range and it replaces the Manfrotto 701HDV video head.

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A perfect partner for your DSLR or a Sony NX30 as shown above, I really like Manfrotto’s new range of tripods, very light weight and smooth though given a choice I still prefer the 504HD as my choice of run and gun tripod head.

504HD

Given the price of the MVH 500 AH at a £130 it’s a great back up or main head for your DSLR and if weight is the issue for aircraft luggage you could easily use the Manfrotto MVH 500 with a JVC HM GY-650 for ENG work.

author

Having been working in the video business since 1988 I have amassed a great amount of knowledge of both the kit and production values over the last 30 years.

2 thoughts on “The Manfrotto MVH-500AH tripod head £130

  1. How does the 500AH differ from the MVH-502AH except from being a little lighter and having a lower profile?

  2. @Petter,

    You bring up a good point. Manfrotto has, indeed, been releasing flat mount versions of all their 500 series, unbeknownst to the author. The change comes in the placement of the adjustment knobs, the ability to adjust friction (not available with 500AH), as well as the QR plate being a top mount with the 500AH, rather than a slide mount as the other heads. However, I heard from a Manfrotto rep that all of the Bridging Technology heads will soon get the ‘upgrade’ of the top click mount. I’m pretty certain they grabbed this concept from the more professional Sachtler models, which is owned by the same parent company as Manfrotto.

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