buying legs and head separate

Looking at this one that CyberDyne posted up. http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …203_carbon_8x_t​ripod.html

Are there any concerns about compatibility for a ball head to be put on top? Don't have one in mind but bugeting $150 for a ball head. Or is are they all pretty universal?

Also, I have an older but still functional three way video head, a Manfrotto 701rc2. http://www.opticsplane​t.com …to-701rc2-video-head.html
Is it practical to remove a ball head (say once or twice a year) and use the video head when desired? I'm wondering if I'd have to give my new tripod some surgical operation so it could accommodate the manfrotto center column in addition to possible compatibility issues with plate size(s).

thanks

Should be compatible, unless the head is too proprietary.

The sirui ball heads are nice and will fit your budget nicely. The tripod has, I believe and 80mm flat plate with a 3/8-16 bolt poking through it. Most heads use the 3/8" bolt to fasten and 80mm is larger than almost any ball head base.

Those legs and a Sirui K30 would be a killer setup.

So what's the deal with big balls? Who likes big balls??

In reading reviews a few people say they wanted at least Xmm ball diameter--does this make it easier to use or something? I guess this is a basic question, but all I've ever had is my three way video head. I ask because that Sirui K20 is about $15 cheaper and its a 38mm ballhead instead of 44mm on the K30. Both are far higher load capacity than I'll ever need.

Silver-Halide wrote in post #17804109
So what's the deal with big balls? Who likes big balls??

In reading reviews a few people say they wanted at least Xmm ball diameter--does this make it easier to use or something? I guess this is a basic question, but all I've ever had is my three way video head. I ask because that Sirui K20 is about $15 cheaper and its a 38mm ballhead instead of 44mm on the K30. Both are far higher load capacity than I'll ever need.

Its all about stability. A bigger ballhead will hold more weight more stably, especially at odd angles.

Ok thanks.

It's nice to start out with something nicer rather than cheaper. If you buy what you think it oversized, you'll end up being more content with your purchase. With those Sirui heads, you are only talking a few dollars difference.

Silver-Halide, you said it yourself... a difference of $15. Unless you are worried about every ounce, choose the K30 over the K20. If you are like me, you'll immediately notice the difference when using the Arca Swiss compatible quick release system on the Sirui..and a good set of legs. In my own experience, I struggled with the Manfrotto RC2 quick release/clamping system. You have one on your Manfrotto head. I always got droop, sag, etc. on all my Manfrotto heads because of the tolerances within the clamping system. That said, it's easy to change out tripod heads so if you decide to use your Manfrotto video head, you'll have no issues switching over.

This Forum costs me money because I'm exposed to better gear..... but it sure saves me lots of mistakes when I follow the excellent advice given. Not that all advice is good, but so much of it is... because others made mistakes along the way and are willing to share these experiences.

Haha ok guys and gals. Thanks all

LOL

Silver-Halide wrote in post #17804109
So what's the deal with big balls? Who likes big balls??

In reading reviews a few people say they wanted at least Xmm ball diameter--does this make it easier to use or something? I guess this is a basic question, but all I've ever had is my three way video head. I ask because that Sirui K20 is about $15 cheaper and its a 38mm ballhead instead of 44mm on the K30. Both are far higher load capacity than I'll ever need.

The Markins Q10 has 44mm diam., and the Really Right Stuff BH-40 has 40mm ball size, just for comparative reference. Both heads are considered to be excellent products, so you can begin to assess alternatives in comparing specs. But, like tripods, there is NO COMMON STANDARD of test for claims of capacity for working load, so buyer beware. Both handle lenses to 300mm, and most folks agree with the suggestions for FL range from both RRS and Markins. if you have longer lenses you want the next larger products (although the RRS BH-55 has long been critiqued for needing a trip to the Fat Farm, compared to the Markins M20).

Silver-Halide wrote in post #17804109
So what's the deal with big balls? Who likes big balls??

In reading reviews a few people say they wanted at least Xmm ball diameter--does this make it easier to use or something? I guess this is a basic question, but all I've ever had is my three way video head. I ask because that Sirui K20 is about $15 cheaper and its a 38mm ballhead instead of 44mm on the K30. Both are far higher load capacity than I'll ever need.

Bigger balls mean bigger surface area for clamping. So your balls get held more securely.

Silver-Halide wrote in post #17804109
So what's the deal with big balls? Who likes big balls??

I've got big Balls,.

The FLM and Graf Studio ball I have are both HUGE!

With the 203 legs I think the SIRUI K30 is the best fit. (of the SIRUI heads)

Ok guys... I ordered the Induro & K30 and the B&H rep said I got the last Induro

I'm a little nervous to be going away from a tripod with a center column but I'm really excited to have a ball head. Trying to do vertical shots on my three way video head was a comedy of errors. I don't have any shoots that I need it for so I'm going to open it Christmas morning with the kiddos.

Merry Christmas all!

You're gonna' love it!!!!