Cheapest monopod for Cam + 70-200 2.8 + flash

[Headshotzx]

As per title, what's the cheapest monopod around? I know of the manfrotto 680B's, 679's etc etc, but I'm looking for something cheaper. Perhaps benro?

The purpose of the monopod is less of stabalising the setup, and more of letting it be less taxing on the arms for some shoots. Also, there are often times when I would like to mount a 400D + ultra-wide-angle + radio remote raised with a monopod to shoot above crowds-- gives a relatively unseen perspective sometimes. Oh, and to put my bare speedlights, shooting from above.

Anyone have some recommendations?

And should I get a ballhead for that, or a tilt head?

Cheers,
Zexun

[canonnoob]

what are you shooting most of the time. I find that with the 70-200 it isnt that heavy to need a monopod.. but I use the manfrotto 680b Its a great monopod...

[Headshotzx]

I definitely do not need a monopod for my relatively light/mid-weight gear. I shoot portraits and events both in the studio, outdoors, and indoor events.

However, there are many times when I would think of using a monopod for quick off camera lighting (via strobist or the canon flash cord), or above-crowds + uwa, but don't have a monopod with me.

EDIT: Would like it to be 3 section so that the last leg is thicker. Good for stability and or holding-the-setup-above kind of situations. Any material is fine, as long as it doesn't break the bank.

EDIT2: The cheapest benro I could find was SG$65, and the Manfrotto's cost about S$100. Hmm.

[4x4rock]

Also check out Dynatran one. I recently got one and from the look and limited used so far, I don't think it's going to break anytime soon. Very sturdy.

Benro is another good option as well as the wellknown Bogen. I think you should be fine with the Bogen 680b

[MSIGuy]

Bogen 680B. Cheap, well made, durable.

[SkipD]

I'll toss another vote in for the Manfrotto 680B. You won't find much of anything for less money that has the same quality.

I would NOT put junk under my equipment and trust it.

[ben_r_]

Just get the 680B, any cheaper and its probably not worth it.

[rang]

As per title, what's the cheapest monopod around? I know of the manfrotto 680B's, 679's etc etc, but I'm looking for something cheaper. Perhaps benro?

The purpose of the monopod is less of stabalising the setup, and more of letting it be less taxing on the arms for some shoots. Also, there are often times when I would like to mount a 400D + ultra-wide-angle + radio remote raised with a monopod to shoot above crowds-- gives a relatively unseen perspective sometimes. Oh, and to put my bare speedlights, shooting from above.

Anyone have some recommendations?

And should I get a ballhead for that, or a tilt head?

Cheers,
Zexun

I have various Bogen monopods (some with legs some without) But I have been using this one more often because it is light, short and very stiff.

Induro MA25: http://www.indurogear.com/products_details_MA25.html#2
I team it up with a Bogen 486RC2 / 30D or 5D griped+100-400L IS+580EXII+Better Beamer...works great. Never had an issue in two years of rough work ...cold and hot conditions.

I think I paid $65.00.
I should've bought it here for $50.00
http://www.amazon.com/Induro-Alloy-6M-Monopod-MA-25/dp/B0013ES6CG

[Roy Webber]

what are you shooting most of the time. I find that with the 70-200 it isnt that heavy to need a monopod.. but I use the manfrotto 680b Its a great monopod...
I agree, works well with my 100-400...shooting surfing, winsdsurf (http://roywebber.zenfolio.com/) etc

[Headshotzx]

Thanks for the replies everyone. It does seem like everyone is recommending the 680B. What about the 679B? I mean, what's the difference? the 680B's more compact, while the 679B is taller. Height might be important if I'm using step ladders or shooting from an elevated position.

I don't like how the benro / induro's last leg is so thin, though..