Manfrotto or Gitzo tripod for my needs?

[devil350]

Hi all,

I just get a 1D III few weeks ago, and it's now time to get a new tripod, the Velbon I have will not do the job now...

I've read many articles regarding tripods, like the one of Thom Hogans. So Id like to save money and made the good choice the first time… That’s why I need you help now.

I've made some search on high end tripods and we have on one side the Gitzo's (which looks like the leader in the “pro” market) and on the other hand Manfrotto with the model 055CXPRO4 that interest me.

I'd like to get in the near future a new Canon 500mm f4 IS. So I want to be sure that my current purchase will support it like it should. (Have a look at my gear to know what I already have). Currently the max load is approximately 6lbs (3kg) body + heaviest lens.
I like Macro photography, and landscape photography, si I’m also interested in a tripod that can do the job.

My question is, would the Manfrotto/Bogen 055CXPRO4 support correctly the 1D + 500 without vibrations… Or I better spend the difference of money and get a Gitzo?
Apparently it’s one of the best tripods of Manfrotto. And the center column offer many great possibilities for landscapes, macro (of flowers…). That why I’ve an eye on this one. And don’t think there is an equivalent in Gitzo series?

Following the configurator tool of Gitzo, my needs (body + lens, height…) will point on the following models:
- G1500
- G1505
- GT3530LS
- GT5541LS

The last one is not the same budget as the Manfrotto but apparently after reading many review (like the recent one of Richard Peters) it will do the job for my all life of photographer.
But this one is heavier, larger and taller than the Manfrotto. So it’s more convenient to travel with.

(I already have a Manfrotto 393 gimbal head (http://www.richardpeters.co.uk/blog/2009/04/19/manfrotto-393-review/), I know it can go to a Manfrotto or Gitzo legs, so no problem on this side). I also have a 488Rc2 that I’ll certainly have to replace soon when I’ll get the 500…

So may I kindly ask you to help me in this difficult choice?
I need comments of people having a 500mm, and their advice, recommendations…

Thanks you all for your reading in my POST, and for your help.

Regards,
Laurent.

Sorry, for my English ;-)

[NYPhotog]

Any of the Gitzo models listed will outperform the Manfrotto. But, you are all over the place with the models listed. The Gitzo 1500 and 1505 are both aluminum with no column and are VERY heavy (the 1500 nearly 10 lbs.). The 1500 is 3-sections, the 1505 4-sections. Four section tripods fold down shorter (easier to travel with) than three section models and that is the primary difference between the two. The 3530LS is a three section CF, 3-Series, also without column and the 5541LS is a CF, 5-series and the most rigid Gitzo tripod, also without column, but weighs over 6 lbs. The Gitzo CF "Systematic" models are modular and can be fitted with an accessory center column, if desired. A center column will reduce the stability of a tripod, especially with long lenses and IMO you should not consider using one.

Your choices are aluminum vs CF: weight, cost; 3-sections vs. 4-sections: folded down length; series 3 vs. series 5: load capacity, weight. IMO, the best all-around Gitzo tripod is the CF 3541LS, which is 4-sections, weighs 3.8 lbs, is rated to support 39.7 lbs., is 57.5" tall, and folds down to 21.7" (the 3530 is 3-sections, same load capacity, folds down 5 inches longer). However, if travelling with a tripod is not a primary consideration, go with the 5541.

[edgar-Junior]

If you have the budget do the right thing here is my combo recieve a few

days ago no dissapointed love it .......;) have Canon 300mm 2.8 plus Canon 500mm F/4



Gitzo + Wimberley Head II + Wimberley Flash Braket II

580EX II + Better Beamer + Canon Flash coard + all lens coat stuff

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2428/3838723392_3e0e30a799_o.jpg

[Wilt]

You want to 'save money'...the Manfrotto is plenty good enough. Question really is, is the light weight worth it to you, to fund a Gitzo?! I don't thing a Gitzo 1xxx should be considered for the size lens you mention!

[NYPhotog]

You want to 'save money'...the Manfrotto is plenty good enough. Question really is, is the light weight worth it to you, to fund a Gitzo?! I don't thing a Gitzo 1xxx should be considered for the size lens you mention!

He didn't say he wanted to save money, he said he wanted to save money in the long run by purchasing the right tripod the first time around. Perhaps you should read Thom Hogan's article that the OP referenced: http://bythom.com/support.htm

He didn't list a 1-series Gitzo, but the 1500 and 1505, which are aluminum 5-series legs with load ratings of 44 lbs.

[ben_r_]

1D and 500mm you say? IMO nothing other than a Gitzo 3 or 5 series should be considered....

[devil350]

Hi All,

Thanks for your advices.

edgard-junior, which Gitzo do you own? You did not specify the model.

NYPhoto, you're right I can afford any of those tripods, I wan't (like you said) to do the right choice at the first time. I don't want to have few tripods at home...

Laurent.

[foxbat]

Definitely the 3531LS. For use with the 500 avoid anything with a center column - the flat plate on the Gitzo systematic tripods is a far more stable platform. I bought a 5530S for use with my 500mm and 300-800mm unstabilized lenses and I definitely made the right choice.

[Wilt]

He didn't say he wanted to save money, he said he wanted to save money in the long run by purchasing the right tripod the first time around. Perhaps you should read Thom Hogan's article that the OP referenced: http://bythom.com/support.htm

He didn't list a 1-series Gitzo, but the 1500 and 1505, which are aluminum 5-series legs with load ratings of 44 lbs.
I understand the position of that link. I simply think that not everyone needs to spend an EXTRA $300 on a tripod, depending upon need. There ARE very sturdy Manfrottos

[jhom]

If weight is not an issue then get the 5541. Otherwise, the choice is the 3541LS or the 3530 for a 3 section legset. Definitely get the Systematic version because you can add a center column if you need it. For the 500, a Wimberley II is a must.

[edgar-Junior]

My Gitzo is 3541LS

[René Damkot]

If you want a Gitzo with additional freedom of motion, an Explorer (http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/accessories/gitzo-2227.shtml) might be the ticket.
It's heavier though then it's Mountaineer counterparts, and there's no 3 (let alone 5) series. So it won't be stable enough for the 500mm.
It is the most flexible option for macro though.

You can get a "lateral arm (http://www.gitzo.com/Jahia/site/gitzo/pid/4765?kindOfProductCollectionRequest=productDetail&productCode=G535&productDescription=Lateral%20arm&curBrandId=BGI&market=MKT1&actualPathCategoryKey=1CAT:AAA1:2CAT:BB59:3CAT:CCC 1:4CAT:DD62&curMarketId=MARKET:MKT1)" for a few Gitzo series (1,2 or 3) by the way.

For a 500mm, I'd consider the 5 series, unless weight is more important then stability.

In that case: 35x1(X)LS depending on what (folded) length you want.

Neither of the CF ones you mention are anywhere near the price range of the Manfrotto 055 I'd think. The Alu Gitzo's weigh a ton.

[sonofjesse]

I just traded my Manfrotto 055PRO Alum for the Manfrotto 055CXPRO4. I"m pretty happy with this lens. (I have no idea with the lens your going to use since currently I don't have one)

My suggestion is to find a POTN or go to a camera store that will let you take the tripod outdoors and mount your lens. And see if you like it.

If the Manfrotto 055CXPRO4 can support it I would say save the cash, if you have doubts or dont' like how the 1d and lens sits I would get the gitzo.

[malla1962]

I would go for the Gitzo 3541 if you are going to use a 500f4.

[devil350]

Hi all,

Thanks for all those inputs. It's now clearer to me, which one I have to choose.

Apparently when reading all your post I should get the Gitzo GT3531LS or the Gitzo GT5541LS.

BUT, there is one thing that confuse me:
When having a look at the poll, I can see than more people (in total 9, out of 17, so more than 50%) have voted for the Manfrotto, than for the Gitzo's, but I don't see all those 9 users comments here, why ? I only see (in the majority of the post)the person that advice me to go for a Gitzo, why?
You, who voted for the Manfrotto, do you own a 500mm f4 IS and use it with this tripod?

René, the lateral arms are a good solution to replace the new central column of the Manfrotto, but they are expensives, almost the price of the 055... (You've have to get the central column first to install them, so that's why it's so expensive.), May be I'd better get the 055 and a Gitzos then... But my wife will kill me if I can back with 2 tripods at home... :-D

Thanks in advance for your answer.

Regards,
Laurent.

[devil350]

Hi all,
My heart still balance between the Manfrotto 055CXPRO4 and the Gitzo GT5541LS

Why the 055CXPRO4?
- Because of the versatile center column;
- Light weight;
- Length when close;

Why the Gitzo GT5541LS?
- Very well known, and I read many reviews with big, heavy lenses use;
- Robust;
- Can support anything Canon made;
- Will certainly resist to my all photographer life (if I don’t destroy it, lost it, or someone theft it…:(
- Is compatible with my Manfrotto 393 grimbal head (Of course the 055 is also compatible).

I don’t choose the Gitzo GT3531LS simply because the step to the Gitzo GT5541LS is only at 100$, so at that level I can go to the best one, even if it’s almost twice heavier than the GT3531LS. I hope it’ll not be to boring to take it when walking in the woods…

Anyway I don’t think I’ll get the Manfrotto, only because I don’t have found any review of someone using it with a 500mm f4 IS or equivalent. Even if the tripod can support up to 8kg, 1D + 500 + grimbal must be approximately: 6,7kg. I’m not convinced that the 055 will be sturdy enough. I think I’ve read somewhere that the tripod must be able to support twice the weight of the gear…, maybe I’m wrong?

This is may be stupid as the 055 May perfectly do the job and be a smaller, lighter, and cheaper choice.

Thanks in advance for reading, and for your comments.

Have a nice day,
Laurent.

[Dave R.]

I see that a Gimbal Head is recommended. Here is one I spotted in the classified. http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=743557

[devil350]

Thanks Dave.

Currently I've the Manfrotto 393. Which is good for me, even if not so good/pratical as the Wimberley is.

Laurent.

[dolina]

I have the 055CXPRO4 with a Wimberly II, 800/5.6L IS , 5d2+grip and it can only accommodate 8kg of equipment weight. I've maxed out my setup and it oscillates in on the slightest of winds. I believe your setup would be maxing out your tripod. The 3541LS would be a better fit for your needs. If you're planning to upgrade your lens the 5541LS may be a better bet.

I'm in the process of choosing between the 3541LS and 5541LS and may go with the 3541LS as the gross weight is just 200 grams more than my 055CXPRO4 and I've known some photogs using it with a 800 even though it isn't recommended by Gitzo.

[andydajo]

I use the Gitzo GT2941LLVL Leveling Tripod + Kirk King Cobra Gimbal to suppoort my 1D MkIII + Canon 500mm f/4 L IS with no issues.
Just my 2 cents worth. Link to said tripod on B&H Photo http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&sku=568873&Q=&is=REG&A=details

[jhom]

For several years I had Manfrottos, 3001, 3021, and 055MF3. They are decent tripods, but imo they don't match up to the Gitzos. I now have a Gitzo 2530 and a 3541LS. My heaviest lens is a 400 f2.8L IS. I can't imagine mounting it on a Manfrotto after my experience with Gitzos. If there is a 500 in your near future, a Gitzo with a Wimberley Gimbal is the way to go.

[Todd Lambert]

I agree with Jim completely.

You seem to recognize that you want overall quality in your next tripod, and you seem to want to make it your last tripod. If so, I think Gitzo is the way to that. Especially if you plan for growth in your lens selection. I didn't need a 3531s when I got mine, and I still don't (my biggest lens is a 70-200 2.8 IS) but I figured this would be my last tripod (yes, I have plan to be buried with it) and I wanted something that would be modular (systematic) and that would grow with me, if I decide to do something crazy and get a 500 or 600.

[devil350]

Hi all,

Thanks you all for your last comments.

Currently I haven’t made a choice, (I had too much stuff to do, and could not decide currently, as I consider it as a difficult choice, and don’t want to make any mistake, and don’t want to regret my choice).

What makes me still hesitating is:
- I sometimes use my current tripod for Macro, and I'm scared that it won't be possible anymore with a systematic tripod (I read it's possible in the Gitzo's catalog... but maybe by adding accessories, central column, and lateral arm... which are very expensive).
-The 055XPro 4 is really versatile and can do macro (thanks to is central column system…), portrait, landscapes…

BUT I know it’ll not be the right/best choice for a 500 f4 L IS. Even if I’ll first have to spare some (I mean a lot  ) of money before being able to purchase it, I think I should already think about future and get the best tripod the first time, I don’t really want to change in 2 years for a 700€ tripod…

If I could be sure the Gitzo 3531 or 5541 are great all around tripod (mainly wildlife, portrait, landscape, Macro), I think I'll go that way and definitelly forgot about the Manfrotto/Benro one.
My only concern at that time would be the weight of the tripod.

Regards,
Laurent.

[Digitally_Altered]

I have the manfrotto,(055cxpro4) I just got the 500 and its not sturdy enough, looking at the gitzo, just not sure yet if I want 4 section systematic or 3 section, there is also xtra long versions for not much more in wait

[devil350]

Hi,

Thanks for your feedback, this is very appreciated.

Can someone tell me about the versatility of the Systematic? Someone already use one for Macro?
Which additional accessories did you use/recommand? Central column, horitontal arm, head...?

Regards,
Laurent.

[jhom]

How about a two tripod system. A Gitzo 3541LS for your 500 and all around shooting. If weight is not a concern then the 5 series would be the choice. A smaller tripod for your macro shooting. I would consider a Gitzo EX series. It has an articulating arm that is much more versatile than the Manfrottos.

[devil350]

Hi Jim,

Thanks for the info. I'll have a look at the EX series.
Do you think central column and/or leveling base, systematic head are usefull accesories?

Regards,
Laurent.

[jhom]

Laurent,

I haven't needed a leveling head for my shooting, but the Gitzo leveling head is well thought of by many photogs. Also, I don't use a center column. In fact, I removed my center column from my 2 series Gitzo.

If the 500 is not immediately in your future, you might want to consider the 2541EX. Use it for awhile and see if it meets your needs with Macro shooting. When the 500 appears, then you might get a 3 or 5 series.

To save some money, you might want to search the various Buy and Sell forums here and on FM. You might be able to get one at a discount. Also, you might find one of the Manfrottos you have been considering. I see many of them for sale as individuals upgrade to other tripods.

[devil350]

Hi Jim,

Thanks for your help. I'll see if I can find a second hand tripod... As the 500mm is not in the near futur, but may be in one or two year, I'll better go for an in between tripod compromize, and change it when I'll get the 500mm. May be a lighter Gitzo tripod will replace the current 5541...

And I'll have a look at the 2541EX, as my heaviest lens are the 100-400 and the 70-200 f2.8 L IS (which are approx the same weight), it should be ok.

Thanks for your great help Jim.

Regards,
Laurent.

[mike_d]

Hi Jim,

Thanks for your help. I'll see if I can find a second hand tripod... As the 500mm is not in the near futur, but may be in one or two year, I'll better go for an in between tripod compromize, and change it when I'll get the 500mm. May be a lighter Gitzo tripod will replace the current 5541...

And I'll have a look at the 2541EX, as my heaviest lens are the 100-400 and the 70-200 f2.8 L IS (which are approx the same weight), it should be ok.

Thanks for your great help Jim.

Regards,
Laurent.

It looks like the load is carried to the side rather that directly above the intersection of the legs even when the column is in the vertical position. Are there any stability or vibration dampening issues associated with this?

[jhom]

If you are looking for a 5 series tripod at a 3 series weight, you might want to consider the new RRS tripod. It has been announced and should be shipping soon. It has some very interesting features and potential. The price is about the same as a 5 series.

[devil350]

I'll have a look at the RSS too.

Thanks for your great advices Jim.

Regards,
Laurent.

[devil350]

Hi all,

I've finally ordered my new set of tipod.
I've choosen the
- Gitzo traveler GT2541EX;
- Gitzo systematic GT3541LS; (The GT5541LS was too heavy and the section too big for me).

So finally I'd like to thank you all for your help in my tripod quest, I'm broken but very happy with the great gear I've.

Ciao,
Laurent.

[ben_r_]

:) Awesome! Youre gonna LOVE it!

Be sure to post back with your thoughts!

[328iGuy]

Hi all,

I've finally ordered my new set of tipod.
I've choosen the
- Gitzo traveler GT2541EX;
- Gitzo systematic GT3541LS; (The GT5541LS was too heavy and the section too big for me).

So finally I'd like to thank you all for your help in my tripod quest, I'm broken but very happy with the great gear I've.

Ciao,
Laurent.

After 2 years of this post? :lol:

[Indecent Exposure]

Congrats! Awesome sticks you ended up with.

[themadman]

Wow... that was a long quest... intense...

[devil350]

Indeed that was very long. A bit more than 1 year as I got the setup mid-january.
Not easy to order such expensive gear without any doubt. That's why it tooks me such a long time.
The setup is really amazing. Build like a thank and versatil. Currently I'm very happy with the setup.
I'll try to post a review about my setup.

Ciao,
Laurent.