The 503HDV has a completely new ergonomic, easy-to-use, functional design; features include large ergonomic locks and knobs allowing for a more solid grip and better control. For enhanced ease of use, the tilt lock and friction controls are located on the left side of the head.

It has an improved and adjustable counterbalance capacity: a switch controls the different counterbalance settings, allowing the user to adjust the system to accommodate various payloads for different filming needs. The counterbalance system can be adjusted to four positions ensuring both smoother tilt movements and greater equipment safety. In addition, it has an illuminated levelling bubble - making it easy for shooters to level the camera in low-light conditions. In addition to the old 503, the 503HDV has also a replaceable pan bar rosette.

• The built-in, carefully hand-set bubble spirit level helps make sure your horizons really are horizontal
• Level of counterbalance given by either of the two springs supplied is adjustable, giving even greater control over the head's perfomance with different weights of camera equipment
• Adjustable drag for fine control over head movements
• Pan bar "rosettes" (toothed discs which fit between the head and the pan bar) are replaceable - if repeated use wears away the teeth and reduces the grip between the pan bar and head, simply substitute the rosette