Sachtler S15 ou S18 ?

[Patrick Lavaud]

Hi Guys,

I'm into a dilemma, I need to buy a Sachtler tripod for my Scarlet kit that I will rent and also use myself, and was wondering if a Sachtler S15 will be enough or if I should I play safer and go with a S18. there is $1500 difference between the both (on second hand market) I will love to use this $1500 for more Red accessories !
What are you thoughts and experiences ?

 

[Paul Mortlock]

I have the old 18p head and legs. Great work horse sticks, and perfect for a lightweight Epic or Scarlet set up.

Personally I wouldn't go any smaller although plenty can and do.

Paul

 

[Patrick Lavaud]

Thanks Paul for your feedback.
I just unboxed my Scarlet today and put the accessories together and realize that the total weight grow quite fast ! I don't put yet all of them and not included the future I/0 module and come to a point that a S18 won't be too much... I think I will go for it !

 

[stu aull]

Have an 18II w/carbon fibre sticks (bought new in 90!) - going strong and has the jam to handle my Scarlet when fully rigged....

Stu Aull
S-X #00199
Alaska

 

[jamesbridges]

I have the 15SB, but I am getting the 18.

 

[Patrick Lavaud]

Have an 18II w/carbon fibre sticks (bought new in 90!) - going strong and has the jam to handle my Scarlet when fully rigged....

I actually bought a second hand S18 Caddy more than 15 years ago for my Sony Betacam SP at that time ! I sold it for few hundred bucks last years in condition, the head was bit fucked up, spreader dead, just the carbon sticks was OK, Now I need a new one !
I must say that I love Sachtler ! my previous one followed me around the world and worked in the worse condition ! I wish I can offer to buy a new one right now and keep it for the next 20 years but, well...other Red stuff to buy in priority !
Anyway, I love Sachtler and I will recomand it to all Red users !

 

[Paul Mortlock]

I used to shoot those huge Sony BVV 5's back in the day. Man they were a lump - Watch for the chroma head clogs!

Paul

 

[stu aull]

Yep - my 18II/CF rig was for beloved Betacam BVW400 (still use occasionally!!)-
Have hauled it all over Alaska. Head is on the heavy side, sticks are feather-weight - but the occasional rebuild at Sachtler USA and its like new!
Can't go wrong with 'em

Stu Aull
S-X #00199
Alaska