The Promaster brand

[Curtis N]

Both of my local camera shops sell lenses, flash units and other accessories with the Promaster brand name. Their stuff is generally less expensive than similar (but maybe not comparable) merchandise from other makers. I don't see that brand mentioned here very often, and they aren't available at B&H or Adorama, so my curiosity is aroused.

Do they just sell low-budget stuff for casual shooters? Do they actually manufacture stuff or just throw their label on other companies' products?

I have their 7500DX flash unit which is the top of their line. It works fine, but mechanically you can tell that it was built with economy in mind. At this juncture, my budget does not allow for "L" lenses, Bogen tripods, etc. and would like to know what I'm sacrificing if I go the Promaster route, especially where lenses are concerned.

Any insights or experiences would be appreciated.

[jfrancho]

I saved a few dollars by purchasing Promaster legs. I have a Bogen 3030 head and Bogen ballhead, can't remember the model, and the combo works great. The only difference I could see was that the quick release legs were not as smooth as the Bogen. It may be a little heavier as well. I have one promaster UV filter, and I cannot tell the difference on my Tamron 28-300, with or without a UV attached. I'm sure it would be apparent on a sharper lens, but I have better filters for those.

[cfcRebel]

If u r looking for tripod, I just got one of these (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7525772611&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&rd=1) from eBay. It says it can support up to 11 lbs and the body and head look pretty solid. It offers the height(expanded) that I want too.

Mine should be arriving next week.

[jfrancho]

That looks a lot like my promaster legs. You'll have to let us know how it works out. My problem with the less expensive heads is that slight bit of movement after locking it down. There wasn't a single off brand head in the shop that didn't do this. And it isn't even a consistant amount of movement. Seems different every time. For $13, I wouldn't mind chucking the head, if the legs are good.

[felix21685]

cfcrebel..can you give us a short review on the ebay tripod ive been leaning towards something like that for a while..

[cfcRebel]

Sure JF, Felix. I'll post something as soon as i receive it. Although it costs as little as my current Walmart tripod did, but i think the amvona will outperform it for sure, just not sure how far. Based on the specs and pictures, it is not as flimpsy as my walmart tripod. ;)