What's a cheap yet good tripod???

[photaz]

Sometime soon I'd like to have a tripod. I thought of getting a Gitzo, but I saw how much money they are. I saw some Gitzo ones that were around $300-$400, but I didn't know how good those were, so I'm asking you guys. What's a cheap and yet good tripod???

[JWright]

The terms "cheap" and "good" are mutually exclusive when it come to tripods. There are three things photographers look for in a tripod: Light weight, stability and low price. Unfortunately, you can only get two of the three in any one given tripod.

[tvphotog]

Check Manfrotto tripods...heavy, but solid performers.

[robojack]

I have an older Manfrotto 190 (just plain vanilla 190, not XB or anything other letters after), is that considered a 'heavy' tripod (I haven't compared with any other tripods, in terms of weight)? As well, can that be considered a competent tripod?

[butugly]

hi try Velbon i've got 2x cx-660 ok to start with.

[Ralph Merlino]

You said cheap but good. I would tell to look in the $200.00
range as a starting point.

[sparksdjs]

Check out the Slik 700DX --

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/131427-REG/Slik_615_315_Pro_700DX_Tripod_with.html

I own it and really like it and you can check the forum for other good reviews on it. This is the $139.95 version with the pan/tilt head - you may want to consider getting the legs only for $99.95 --

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/168060-REG/Slik_615_900_700DX_Pro_Tripod_Leg.html

and buying a good ballhead for it (personal preference). It's not as light as many of the more expensive tripods but it is as solid as a rock.

Dave