Recomend me a STURDY tripod + ball head for ~$200

[Nielsen277]

Lately I've been downright FED UP with my current tripods... I have an old Velbon VGB-3C and a newer Vanguard VT-214 (my mom bought it for me recently because it was marked down from $60 to $20 at Cabella's).

Neither of them are stable. The legs slip in the clamps just from holding my gripped XTI, 50 1.4, and 430EXII. If I put any weight on the camera they slip even more. They also twist and flex A LOT. They both have pan/tilt heads and the locks are horrible.

I'm looking for a set of legs that won't twist or slip under the weight of my set-up. Later I plan on upgrading to an xxD body and some bigger lenses, and I don't want to have any problems with that set-up. I like to buy things once so I end up having what I need later on.

I'd like to spend around $200... Less would be nice, but a little more really wouldn't hurt. I don't care about brands or fancy materials. Aluminum will do. Weight really isn't much of an issue, but I'd rather not lug a cinder block around with me all day. I'd like to be able to frame my shot with one hand and tighten the ball lock with the other while looking through the viewfinder and not have the framing change.

I've been having a little trouble sifting through all of the info on Manfrotto's website and would like some real suggestions. Photos be greatly appreciated! Oh, and I'm 5" 11'.

Thanks!!

[Bubble]

with that budget, look at benro line up.

[Nielsen277]

Well I'm actually looking at the Manfrotto set-ups... I've increased my budget to around $250 LOL.

I think I'm going for a 488RC2, but I have no clue which legs to get...

What are the main differences between the 190XPROB and the 055XPROB legs?

[Tempo]

Well I'm actually looking at the Manfrotto set-ups... I've increased my budget to around $250 LOL.

I think I'm going for a 488RC2, but I have no clue which legs to get...

What are the main differences between the 190XPROB and the 055XPROB legs?

Bigger.
It weighs 2.4 kg up from 1.8.
Height 142 cm with column down vs 122
tube diam 29.4 mm vs 25
Max Load 8kg vs 5

[René Damkot]

Most recommended tripod / head here is the 055/488.

Have a read in the Sticky (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=53864) for some more ideas / reviews.

[Cpt.Vanquisher]

I have a Manfrotto 055CLB and am very happy with it. It's way more sturdy than the 190-series. I use a 3-way head, the 324RC4. It works a bit slower, but that doesn't bother me for landscapes, architecture and models.

[Nielsen277]

Bigger.
It weighs 2.4 kg up from 1.8.
Height 142 cm with column down vs 122
tube diam 29.4 mm vs 25
Max Load 8kg vs 5

So which is bigger?

Thanks.

[Tempo]

So which is bigger?

Thanks.

055 is the bigger.

[lucky04]

Most popular(at least at the moment, and in my opinion) is the 055xprob setup with the 488rc2 setup. I'm not gonna lie, i shot for the same setup after reading the review on it posted up earlier in the post. and i love it to death, a big improvement on my last couple tripods, just an amazing setup, you cant go wrong.

It is heavier duty, and bigger, than the 190. I'd read that review, then continue your research from there.

[Wilt]

Find a used Bogen 3021/3221...precursor to the Manfrotto 055

Find a used Bogen 3001/3201...precursor to the Manfrotto 190

The 3001/190 is 'the hiker tripod' where light weight wins over tripod height and stability.
The 3021/055 is the 'tall photographer tripod' for those 6' who dislike bending over to achieve optimal composition, or for those not compulsive about tripod weight.

All mainstays of the affordable-but-suitable-for-a-lifetime photography world, for decades!

[mechengr154]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?ci=0&shs=BO055XPB486K&sb=ps&pn=1&sq=desc&InitialSearch=yes&O=jsp%2Fworkaround.jsp&A=search&Q=*&bhs=t

[gooble]

It looks like you can get the 055 legs and 488RC2 head for around $250. I have the Manfrotto 3021B Pro and the 488RC2 head and they have worked well but I need to upgrade now and if I were to do it again I'd spend the extra money on the "right" equipment from the get go. I plan to get the Really Right Stuff BH-55 with lever release clamp ($455). I think either of the aforementioned legs will work fine with this head but I plan to get some carbon fiber and/or bassalt legs in the future.

[Nielsen277]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?ci=0&shs=BO055XPB486K&sb=ps&pn=1&sq=desc&InitialSearch=yes&O=jsp%2Fworkaround.jsp&A=search&Q=*&bhs=t

I think I'm going to go with the 488, I really like the way you can pan without unlocking the ball.

Thanks everyone! Looks like I'll be going with the 055PROXB and 488RC2 for $234.90 at B and H!!

[jhom]

You may save some money on a Manfrotto setup by looking at B&S. It is not uncommon that the Manfrottos go up for sale as members upgrade to better setups. Try FM also.

[SYS]

I think I'm going to go with the 488, I really like the way you can pan without unlocking the ball.

Thanks everyone! Looks like I'll be going with the 055PROXB and 488RC2 for $234.90 at B and H!!

Good decision. I just received my 488RC2 today to go with the 3021BPRO which is the earlier version of the 055X.

[dogwalker]

Did I miss a sale? I see that at B&H for $273 atm.

[SYS]

Did I miss a sale? I see that at B&H for $273 atm.

I don't know whether there was a sale at BH or not, but right now you can get both for $250 (sold separately) at Amazon with free shipping. So whatever the BH had on sale, if you include their shipping charges, you might end up about the same or even better.

[dogwalker]

Thanks. I want to research the 488RC2 a little more, too. It seems the majority really love it, but several have complained of creep. I'd like this to be my last tripod and head if possible.

[SYS]

I'd like this to be my last tripod and head if possible.

That's what you'd like to think... but if you stay around POTN long enough.... :lol:

[dogwalker]

haha - I need to make sure my wife never sees these threads...

[matonanjin]

Lately I've been downright FED UP with my current tripods... I have an old Velbon VGB-3C and a newer Vanguard VT-214 (my mom bought it for me recently because it was marked down from $60 to $20 at Cabella's).

Neither of them are stable. The legs slip in the clamps just from holding my gripped XTI, 50 1.4, and 430EXII. If I put any weight on the camera they slip even more. They also twist and flex A LOT. They both have pan/tilt heads and the locks are horrible.

I'm looking for a set of legs that won't twist or slip under the weight of my set-up. Later I plan on upgrading to an xxD body and some bigger lenses, and I don't want to have any problems with that set-up. I like to buy things once so I end up having what I need later on.

I'd like to spend around $200... Less would be nice, but a little more really wouldn't hurt. I don't care about brands or fancy materials. Aluminum will do. Weight really isn't much of an issue, but I'd rather not lug a cinder block around with me all day. I'd like to be able to frame my shot with one hand and tighten the ball lock with the other while looking through the viewfinder and not have the framing change.

I've been having a little trouble sifting through all of the info on Manfrotto's website and would like some real suggestions. Photos be greatly appreciated! Oh, and I'm 5" 11'.

Thanks!!

Thanks for starting this thread. I am shopping for a new/used tripod/head setup myself!:D I am also using a crappy old aluminum Velbon that is about 2 decades old!

[matonanjin]

Find a used Bogen 3021/3221...precursor to the Manfrotto 055

Find a used Bogen 3001/3201...precursor to the Manfrotto 190

The 3001/190 is 'the hiker tripod' where light weight wins over tripod height and stability.
The 3021/055 is the 'tall photographer tripod' for those 6' who dislike bending over to achieve optimal composition, or for those not compulsive about tripod weight.

All mainstays of the affordable-but-suitable-for-a-lifetime photography world, for decades!


I have searched but can't find the difference between the Bogen 3021 & 3221?:confused:

Anyone?

[SYS]

I have searched but can't find the difference between the Bogen 3021 & 3221?:confused:

Anyone?

Both are older models.

3021, which I have, was replaced by Manfrotto 055XPROB, and 3221 was replaced by Manfrotto 055XWNB.

055XPROB: http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-055XPROB-Tripod-Legs-Black/dp/B000UMX7FI/ref=wl_it_dp?ie=UTF8&coliid=IHWMYB00L99GQ&colid=3H5LRX20WOEUJ

055XWNB: http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-055XWNB-Aluminum-Wilderness-Protectors/dp/B000UM1ZJ8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=photo&qid=1236718347&sr=1-1

[Wilt]

30nn is anodized clear aluminum
32nn is anodized black aluminum

...in the old Bogen model numbering scheme

[rang]

I have the 190XPROB and the Bogen 488RC2 combo...works great...no creep with a 5D+ 100-400 + 580EXII + Bogen flash bracket + Better Beamer.

However if you want smaller/lighter yet just about as steady...take a look at the Induro aluminum A103/A104. I use this for a quick grab and go with the same Bogen head and rig setup. Course...if you want to spend big bucks ...buy any mfgs Carbon fiber models.

[dogwalker]

Thanks, Rang. Do you ever tilt your camera, etc while it's on the tripod, and still get no creep? That's probably a stupid question, but thanks for your patience and input.

Right now, it looks like the 488RC2 is the head I need; next I'll need to decide on the legs. Probably the 055XPROB.

[rang]

Thanks, Rang. Do you ever tilt your camera, etc while it's on the tripod, and still get no creep? That's probably a stupid question, but thanks for your patience and input.

Right now, it looks like the 488RC2 is the head I need; next I'll need to decide on the legs. Probably the 055XPROB.


Yes...all the time- and I have to admit...there is a bit of creep ...I grip all my bodies...for the controls on the grip in portrait mode. Plus the added balance with longish glass.

However to address that slight amount of creep with all that stuff (the flash bracket, the flash unit, the Better Beamer, the gripped XXD body) I use the Bogen Junior Elbow bracket...so all you do is flip the lever and lock the "other" QR plate into the mount. (A poor mans RRS plate).

[e_shade]

There's a $35 instant rebate at B&H for this (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/560832-REG/Manfrotto_by_Bogen_Imaging__055XPRO) setup. 055XPROB/486RC2

[talz13]

I just ordered the 055 & 488rc2 from adorama for $244.80 with free shipping

[dorkiedoode]

is it this one? http://www.adorama.com/BG055XP484RC.html adorama seem like its cheaper then B&H even after the rebate.

im looking for one too but i know nothing about tripod..like totally nothing. looking for something to use in the same condition as OP and car shoot.

[rang]

is it this one? http://www.adorama.com/BG055XP484RC.html adorama seem like its cheaper then B&H even after the rebate.

im looking for one too but i know nothing about tripod..like totally nothing. looking for something to use in the same condition as OP and car shoot.


NO...the head is wrong...the 484 is way too small. The moment you add *anything* longer than the kit 18-55IS lens to your body...you will regret it.

The 488RC2 is much, much beefier and has a drag pan adjustment knob so you can vary the amount of grip in one plane only *without* having to loosen the ball head.

[john-in-japan]

Probably too late but....

A tripod is forever. It is a little like a 75cc motorscooter. Soon you will want a 125cc, then desire a 250cc, need a 500cc and covet (drool over) a 1000cc bike. Trash heaps are littered with the 75cc bikes. Scrimping on a tripod is a short term solution. Once you get those big white lenses those scrawny toothpick legged ElCheapo tripods will be a source of embarrassment, girls will experience nausea and ducks will flare. Go BIG, put it on plastic or home lay-away. Tongue-in-cheek......
John

[Roy Webber]

Most recommended tripod / head here is the 055/488.

Have a read in the Sticky (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=53864) for some more ideas / reviews.
Mine arrives shortly, and can't wait to use it :)

[_aravena]

NO...the head is wrong...the 484 is way too small. The moment you add *anything* longer than the kit 18-55IS lens to your body...you will regret it.

The 488RC2 is much, much beefier and has a drag pan adjustment knob so you can vary the amount of grip in one plane only *without* having to loosen the ball head.

Nonsense. The 484 is not that bad. I got it as a gift because it was cheaper than the 488. :rolleyes: I enjoy it though and have used my 70-200 on it via monopod and tripod.

What's the biggest difference in the 190 and 055 tripods. I see it's only a $30 difference but I'm still curious. $30 these days is everything. I'm really looking into upgrading my tripod.

[dogwalker]

However to address that slight amount of creep with all that stuff (the flash bracket, the flash unit, the Better Beamer, the gripped XXD body) I use the Bogen Junior Elbow bracket...so all you do is flip the lever and lock the "other" QR plate into the mount. (A poor mans RRS plate).
I don't know what that is, but if/when I get this combo, I'll be sure to ask! Sounds good.

[AdamC]

Thanks everyone! Looks like I'll be going with the 055PROXB and 488RC2 for $234.90 at B and H!!

Yay for sucky exchange rates. They're $430-odd here, and that's discounted from normal.

[fungry]

:( Our exchange rate sucks...

[rang]

Nonsense. The 484 is not that bad. I got it as a gift because it was cheaper than the 488. :rolleyes: I enjoy it though and have used my 70-200 on it via monopod and tripod.

What's the biggest difference in the 190 and 055 tripods. I see it's only a $30 difference but I'm still curious. $30 these days is everything. I'm really looking into upgrading my tripod.


I dunno...I tried using the 484's with a gripped XTi + 70-200 + 430EX with a Better Beamer and in portrait orientation...it slipped.

The 466's no problem, 488 no problem.

YMMV. That's what I found. And I got tired of loosening and then re-composing and re-tightening cycles.

[dogwalker]

That's very important. I don't want an initial slip, and even more importantly, I don't want the gradual creep. I imagine these would be most likely in portrait mode or when using some weird angle.

[dogwalker]

Anyone know why B&H isn't carrying the 055proxb now? I'm looking at tripods and heads now, and checking threads here, and thought I'd look at the 055proxb and 488RC2, but they no longer have any combos with that head and don't have the legs.

Is the 055proxb being phased out?

I see Adorama has both, I'm just not as familiar with that store, though.

[Wilt]

Adorama is a fine store. Just as ethical and honest as B&H, not a bait and switch con job like many other phone order sweatshops with even lower sucker prices, but a real brick and mortar store.

[Jon]

I'm (almost) as likely to buy from Adorama as from B&H. IIRC, both my last 2 purchases were from Adorama in fact.

[cochranjd]

I am looking for about $200 (maybe $250 if the wife is occupied with our baby while I check out) setup so I started reading this thread.

I got pumped about the 055XPROB/488RC2 combo and thought "I can stretch to $250".

Then I looked:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/504845-REG/Manfrotto_by_Bogen_Imaging_055XPROB_055XPROB_Tripo d_Legs_Black_.html ($179.95)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?ci=0&shs=488RC2&sb=ps&pn=1&sq=desc&InitialSearch=yes&O=jsp%2Fcatalog.jsp&A=search&Q=*&bhs=t&Go.x=0&Go.y=0&Go=submit ($114.95)

~$295!!!

Am I missing something?

When I got my 50mm 1.8 prices had shot up (from $85 to $115 when I bought mine a few weeks ago) and now this.

No wonder I've read that photography is expensive!

[cochranjd]

As for Adorama - after I got my wife an Xsi, I caught the bug and bought a used 30D from Adorama not too long ago for myself.

E+ rating and they weren't kidding - thing was immaculate, price was great, shipping was prompt.

Bought my wife's from B&H, my stuff from Adorama and I'd use either of them again in a heartbeat for whatever purchase need I have.

[dogwalker]

When I got my 50mm 1.8 prices had shot up (from $85 to $115 when I bought mine a few weeks ago) and now this.

No wonder I've read that photography is expensive!

Yeah, it is weird. I'm so glad I bought my 50mm 1.8 for $85, too. The combo is cheaper at Adorama, but we've definitely missed out on the best deal. I don't know if it's a weak dollar, a weak world-wide economy, the time of year, or what.

[Jannie]

Some product is carried infrequently in small amounts to keep stores inventory low in case they have a hard time selling them and in case their cash flow is slow, they want only enough items guaranteed to sell quickly. I think we can see this across the entire economy.

A lot of stuff simply is not being imported now; I would not be supprised if many manufacturers also are limiting production and eliminating at least for now, products which do not sell fast or that do not have high enough profit.

[Wilt]

Some product is carried infrequently in small amounts to keep stores inventory low in case they have a hard time selling them and in case their cash flow is slow, they want only enough items guaranteed to sell quickly. I think we can see this across the entire economy.

A lot of stuff simply is not being imported now; I would not be supprised if many manufacturers also are limiting production and eliminating at least for now, products which do not sell fast or that do not have high enough profit.

And in these times, the stores might simply not be able to buy because of tight credit. Before they filed for bankruptcy and then closed, my wife spoke with a Mervyn's store manager who said business was terrific except they couldn't get stock because of tight credit!

[Foggy]

I had the 055/488 combo before. Sturdy tripod. It was so heavy to lug around even with an optec tripod strap that I ended up not using it often. Ended up selling it - I seem to be a big fan of Benro these days.

[cochranjd]

I ended up getting the 055/486 combo the other day at my local camera shop (they didn't have the 488 and the 86 seems good enough for my 30D - I have no big lenses right now and my budget was tight to begin with).

[KristineLe]

Need new recommendations.

Budget: max 250.

I am 5'1, around 115lbs. I think I can't nor do I want to jug around a heavy tripod set and a camera while hiking or where ever I may go...

I hope (might) upgrade to full frame (looking at 5D Mark II). Currently, learning from a XSi.

Quality is a must. I take good care of my gears but that does not mean they won't give up on me early cuz they were made poorly to begin with. I know $250 might not be much but that's all I can afford now. :D I don't care for brand. If you guys say it's good, I believe you. :D

Thanks....


Oh... I like macro, landscape and sometimes portraits photography... not much into sports.


Edit: I am currently looking at this set up (pricing from Amazon):

$142.45 Manfrotto 055XPROB Pro Tripod Legs (Black) - Manfrotto
$127.30 Manfrotto 498RC2 Ball Head with Quick Release Replaces Manfrotto 488RC2 - Manfrotto

What do y'all think?

[J.Doe]

Maybe this?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270676856948&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

[Josh_30]

Need new recommendations.

Budget: max 250.

I am 5'1, around 115lbs. I think I can't nor do I want to jug around a heavy tripod set and a camera while hiking or where ever I may go...

I hope (might) upgrade to full frame (looking at 5D Mark II). Currently, learning from a XSi.

Quality is a must. I take good care of my gears but that does not mean they won't give up on me early cuz they were made poorly to begin with. I know $250 might not be much but that's all I can afford now. :D I don't care for brand. If you guys say it's good, I believe you. :D

Thanks....


Oh... I like macro, landscape and sometimes portraits photography... not much into sports.


Edit: I am currently looking at this set up (pricing from Amazon):

$142.45 Manfrotto 055XPROB Pro Tripod Legs (Black) - Manfrotto
$127.30 Manfrotto 498RC2 Ball Head with Quick Release Replaces Manfrotto 488RC2 - Manfrotto

What do y'all think?


If you're planning on taking it hiking, the 055xprob/498rc2 is a no-go unless you really like a workout. It's too long when folded, and too heavy for hiking (I own this setup, and just bought a carbon-fiber Gitzo traveler for hiking). Otherwise it's a great, stable tripod for all-around use. IMO, you'll soon be back to square one looking for a lighter setup if you choose that as a take-along setup. The 190xprob may be a better choice, since it's smaller and a bit lighter than the 055, but neither are going to be super-light for hiking. For that, you really need to go with carbon-fiber... but that busts the budget pretty quick.

The eBay link above is supposed to be a good knock-off of the top of the line Gitzo traveler series legs. I've heard the head isn't great, but I have no personal experience with it.

[themadman]

Maybe this?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270676856948&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Horusbennu is good stuff, but if their LX-1T is anything like their LX-2T it isn't super nice. I would recommend their FX-34Q traveler head or LX-5 regular head (if you don't need a traveler size head)

[cristphoto]

I just posted this a minute ago to another person. The pair shown (Manfrotto 190xprob/498) is about $250 from Adorama, B&H but you can knock off about $50-75 for the same basic setup with less deluxe features. Edit - I just noticed the original post of this thread was over 2 years ago. I assume the poster got a tripod by now.

[KristineLe]

The set up in the link looks good... :D I'll read more about it.

J-Doe, do you own it? If not, do you know anyone who does? HOw is it? Does it hold up?

Josh: Let's take hiking out of the picture then. What would you recommend? Honestly, I only prefer a backpack when I go hiking. :D I think that's all I can manage given my strength. :D

Cristphoto: Yeah... I went through this thread and clicked on most of the links... they're either dead or out of stock. In comparison, the Manfrotto and the HorusBennu, which is more durable ?

BTW, is it silly to ask... these tripods can stand on grass right? I meant, soft surfaces ..

[cristphoto]

BTW, is it silly to ask... these tripods can stand on grass right? I meant, soft surfaces ..

I only use Manfrotto tripods and light stands and have never had anything let me down. I've had my setup everywhere - snow, mud, beach, grass - the works. I just wipe it off before it goes back in the car and rinse it off and dry when I get home.

[Snydremark]

The tripods are great; the 4x8RC2 ball heads are only Ok. They suffer from some "droop" or slop when tightening them down, so your framing can get out of whack. This is more true for shooting macro shots than telephoto shots; but it's still annoying.

Tripods are like many other things: Cheap, Strong/sturdy, Light. Pick 2.

The closest I've seen to all 3 are units like the 190x series. I have the 055 aluminum legs that don't get used any longer except at home due to size/weight and the 055 4-section carbon fiber legs that now go everywhere with me. They're great tripods, but not cheap when you get into the CF models.

[J.Doe]

Tripods are like many other things: Cheap, Strong/sturdy, Light. Pick 2.
According to this (very true) assertion,I suggested the Horusbennu C-2540T/LX-1T combo,as sold on eBay.Looks like it's in your ballpark as related to price/weight.Agree,the LX-1T isn't the greatest but it does the job.Of course,you can pick the tripod only and look at another ballhead wich is eventually better tailored for your needs/biased opinion/price range.
J-Doe, do you own it? If not, do you know anyone who does? HOw is it? Does it hold up?
No,I don't own this combo but I had it recently borrowed for three weeks and it looks/behaves OK.A closer inspection didn't reveal any constructive flaw (for what it costs) and in terms of normal use@abuse makes a good figure...nothing spectacular but also nothing wrong.
I'm in the "find your tripod/ballhead" drama too :rolleyes: and before pulling the trigger I tried and tested all the Manfrottos/Giottos/Gitzos I could borrow from friends.My specific problem is that where I live,the prices for a good/known brand are outrageous and the products' lineup and offer is rather modest...the second-hand market is like inexistent,too.Besides,I cannot afford (and,frankly,I don't want to) paying big bucks just for the sake of a brand name (looks like I opened a "can'o'worms" with this...feel free to begin flaming me about it).
Currently,I'm inclined towards a HorusBennu C-3540V/LX-5 combination as I see it being the best bang for buck and because I can carry it.;)

[SkedAddled]

You can't go wrong with a Manfrotto 055 legset paired with a Manfrotto
498 ballhead. It's just about the most budget-conscious and stable rig
available, though it does weigh a few pounds more than CF options.

If you've got your mind set on carbon-fiber options, there are a lot more
choices for you to make.

[Wilt]

If you're in your 20's and 30's, I highly recommend the aluminum Manfrottos...fits the budget better and helps to turn you into a fit stud and keep you a fit stud, in those years where attractingly nice looking ladies is most important. After you are in your 40's and 50's which are your peak earning years (and you have won the lady of your heart) you can afford to splurge on CF tripods and the lighter weight which is easier on those aging joints and weakening muscles. Then as you move into your 60's you can share your wisdom, and leave the long treks into the nature wilderness to the younger, fitter, and more foolish! Of course, even if you are 40-60 yo, you might want to continue to carry an even heftier aluminum tripod, to turn you into a fit stud worthy of those trophy brides! :lol:

[AzzKicker]

I purchased a Benro A2970F with Benro BH1 Ballhead (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004E9SWMQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=t00c-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004E9SWMQ) all for under 210.00 through Amazon. Awesome setup and very happy with it. The legs are sturdy!

[KristineLe]

Finding the right tripod is more work than I thought.

What is more durable/preferred aluminum and carbon-fiber? Does it matter?


Edit: LOL @ Wilt.

[Wilt]

Carbon fiber is more high tech (read 'more status'), lighter, better for vibrational dampening...at the expense of high price.

Aluminum is lowtech (read 'less status'), heavier, not as good for vibrational dampening...at the benefit of low price.

Mass (weight) has one benefit, vibrational dampening has a very different benefit.

You pay your money and take your pick.

[GeeMack]

I'm leaning in this direction currently. But the wind seems to push my lean from time to time....
.
http://cgi.ebay.com/HorusBennu-C-2540T-Camera-Carbon-Tripod-LX2-Ball-Head-/270676862721?pt=US_Tripods&hash=item3f05992701
.
Not ready to pull the trigger yet, but close.

[AzzKicker]

You may like this one too. (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002CVTUG0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=t00c-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002CVTUG0) Just need to get a Ball Head

[Korak]

Hello People.

This is my first post in this forum, and would like to get a little help for choosing Ball Head

At the moment I have this tripod http://www.cullmann.de/en/detail/id/magnesit-525m.html
very nice and feel solid, but my friend got a little accident on my balcony, and broke the head part, so its little loose at the moment. And 1-2mm loose from the start, is miles and miles at Jupiter :)
I didnt first notice that when using my 15-85 Lens... but today, when I tried to use my 70-200, it was impossible to even focus to the moon.

So I was thinking this one http://www.rajalacamera.fi/manfrotto-mh054-mag-ball-head-q2/23128RCcolor-copy/dp?openGroup=687
or
http://www.rajalacamera.fi/manfrotto-498rc2-midi-ball-head-with-rc2/23M498RC2/dp?openGroup=687

Pics would be mostly landscapes, and now that been reading a few days this site, I want to start to practise some starphotos.

EDIT: and the difference with "normal" ball head to hydrostatic ball head. Forexample this http://www.productreview.com.au/p/manfrotto-468mgrc2-hydrostatic-ball-head-with-rc2-rapid-connect-system.html#details