Recommendations needed for tripod and ballhead upgrade

Hi guys,

I'm looking to upgrade my tripod+ballhead, with the following criteria:

Tripod
- Vibration dampening is most important factor
- Fast to deploy - 2nd most important factor! (makes me want to use the tripod more frequently)
- preferably under 2.5kg/travel friendly/compact when collapsed
- under $220
- 3 or 4 section
- no preference for twist/lever lock
- must have flexible centre column (reversible + 90 degree horizontal)
- hook on column is a huge plus
- sufficient to hold 6D + 70-200 f2.8L IS [But would be used with 17-40L or 100L IS most of the time]

Ballhead
- should not creep after locking into position ( my current one creeps slightly when using liveview 10x)
- lightweight a plus, without compromising too much on stability (so that it can be shared with my gorillapod)
- separate knob for locking vs panning
- big plus if the combo allows me to do single/multi-row panoramas easily
- under $100


I've been flipping through a lot of guides and reviews and have narrowed down to the Manfrotto 190XPRO3, or the Vanguard Alta series. Currently leaning towards the Vanguard as it is cheaper, has a more flexible centre column and features a spring loaded hook for extra stability. I understand Manfrotto is a trusted brand but just curious - how far away is the quality of alternative manufacturers compared to them?

Would be more than happy to accept alternative brands/models that meet the criteria too.

Thanks in advance for your help!

I have Benro A2970F legs with a Manfrotto 322RC2 head, ~$300 for both and I love the set up. Many folks recommended the Manfrotto comparable on the legs but I went with Benro due to the better versatility of the center column. Have had it for about 3 months now and it's been a rock solid setup. No hook on center column, but I'd recommend these legs.

Take a look at the Benro C2680TB1.

Stay away from Manfrotto heads, they sag/droop.

Sirrith wrote in post #16779000
Stay away from Manfrotto heads, they sag/droop.

Don't we all

Whortleberry wrote in post #16779098
Don't we all

Some more than others

Whortleberry wrote in post #16779098
Don't we all

always thought Manfrotto is trusted for both legs and head - for example the 498RC2.

what other solid contenders do we have currently?

Sirrith wrote in post #16779000
Take a look at the Benro C2680TB1.

Stay away from Manfrotto heads, they sag/droop.

thanks for the advice. would likely head for alu options as I can't stomach the cost of CF

The only ballhead I have found that doesn't creep is rrs bh-55, and I bought and sold a lot of them before trying it.

rick_reno wrote in post #16779436
The only ballhead I have found that doesn't creep is rrs bh-55, and I bought and sold a lot of them before trying it.

that's almost 5x my budget for a ballhead - any alternative affordable option please?

Dear the.former,

Take a look at the Triopo RS3 ballhead. You can buy it along with a clamp that is compatible with both Arca-Swiss and Manfrotto quick release plates for under $ 100.00. I believe you will need a Desmond DBA01 clamp?

You'll need to convert the clamp yourself but there are videos out there that explain the process. Take a look at the review below and look at the other video on converting the top mount from a threaded connection to a QR compatible clamp.

http://www.scvphotoide​as.com …s-3-ball-head-review.html

Regards,

Tim Murphy

If you expand your budget just a little bit you can start looking at the Sunwayfoto brand of ball heads. I borrowed one (a *36 model) and I was quite impressed with it. An FB-36 with an Arca-swiss clamp is $146 at B&H, larger sizes (which you should consider) is a little more.

I suggest you try to go the "right" way from the start and don't make the same mistake I did - I got the Manfrotto quick release system some years ago and replacing it all with the more versatile (and in my opinion superior) Arca-Swiss style quick releases was an expensive affair.

Dear Hawkan,

That's the whole point of the Desmond clamp. You can get a dual purpose clamp and use both Arca-Swiss and Manfrotto plates until you settle on one style without having to go through the expense of switching everything over at one time.

http://www.amazon.com …A-01-Tripod/dp/B008G394U0

Regards,

Tim Murphy

jtmiv wrote in post #16779881
Dear Hawkan,

That's the whole point of the Desmond clamp.

Thanks Tim, I'll check it out. I haven't been impressed with the one Desmond brand product I have ever handled, a nodal rail. It appeared to differ some in dimensions so it wouldn't fit without adjustment to my RRS clamps (Sunwayfoto and Hejnar appeared to work better). I wasn't too impressed with it but this at least looks inventive!

the.forumer wrote in post #16779376
thanks for the advice. would likely head for alu options as I can't stomach the cost of CF

Your budget is $320, the C2680 is $350

http://www.holgacamera​.com …-carbon-fiber-tripod-kit/

And Manfrotto heads aren't known for being rock solid. They're known for not being that great, actually.

Another vote for the A2970F. It meets and exceeds (in some cases) your specs. I've had mine for more than 2 years and it can do the job required with ease. Because it is a 3 section pod, it is very sturdy but is about 26 inches in length (collapsed).

Did I mention it is only $154. Also comes in CF but is $200 more.


Check this out: https://www.youtube.co​m/watch?v=OiqD7v9mKPY