Libec TH-2000 Video Tripod Any good?

[Sebastian Cepeda]

Hello everyone,

I wanted to ask you if anyone has ever tested/used the Libec TH-2000 video tripod? As stated on BHPhoto it supports around 35lb/15Kg. Im planing on using it for RED ONE Batteries and Canon lenses?
For its price point i dont expect a super tripod, but is it useable?
here the link:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/411041-REG/Libec_TH_2000_TH_2000_Video_Tripod.html

Thanks for your comments.

 

[Alexander Ibrahim]

That looks to me like a steaming pile of self loathing.

If you are really desperate, and need a low price above anything else, then its better than nothing.

Truthfully, a tripod and head will outlast your camera system, and you invest accordingly. I mean, who cares if you shot on Red if you images are a shaky mess because you bought a cheap set of sticks. Why waste time shooting a $25000+ camera with a low end set of sticks like that.

I recommend 100mm ball heads. A lot of things either use or are easily adapted to 100mm. Every camera slider I have used supports 100mm directly, as do a number of Jib systems.

100mm heads start at the price for your whole support system, but if you buy intelligently will last you a very long time.

You can really skimp on the sticks now and upgrade them later.

The key benefit is that you can remove the head (unlike the system you linked) and use it on another platform - like say a Fisher dolly, or a jib.

Check out this combo that might be very interesting on the low end:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/459156-REG/Libec_T98_T98_100mm_2_Stage_Aluminum.html

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/687140-REG/Cartoni_F125_Focus_HD_Video_Tripod.html

You should grab the Libec BR-4 mid level spreader to go with the sticks.

My plan is to buy the set up I linked above and upgrade to these sticks- which I think could last the rest of my career barring physical damage.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/201203-REG/Sachtler_5590_Speed_Lock_CF_HD_Carbon.html

Which require a spreader:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/78857-REG/Sachtler_7007_Mid_Level_Tripod_Spreader.html

I haven't picked a head to upgrade to from the Cartoni's yet ... but right now I'm leaning towards Sachtler's DV-12, Video 15 or Video 20 head. (I like that they are flexible enough to work with a bare bones DSLR or a complete Red One kit with PL lenses.)

One final note ... I find that most camera crew aren't too picky about tripod legs, so long as they are sturdy enough and support the systems in use. Tripod heads though are a different matter. Every operator has a preference. So, I suggest going someplace where you can try them out for a while.

I also suggest renting tripod head combinations for your early shoots ... that way you can try some real systems in the field. You may annoy the rental house, but you should switch sticks and heads until you've used everything in their inventory - especially if its early in your career. Don't be silly - tell them you are trying to figure out what you like. Usually they'll help you out.

 

[Sebastian Cepeda]

Yeah thats what i though but it could have been one of those little surprises for almost no money a "good" solution. I normally work with the Sachtler Cine 40 or Video 18 and I love both, but too expensive for now.

But thanks for the info!