Can a good pod and head be had for $150?

That's what I've got to spend. Seems like the more sticky's and threads I read the more I get overloaded with what the drawbacks of each pod and head are .

Certainly a good setup can be had for my price range...no?

It will be used with my 30d and either a 17-55 IS or my 70-200 F4 (non IS) for both urban and landscapes (I like to hike so obviously lighter is better). Not a bird or sports guy.

Thanks in advance!

Chris

Slik 700 is a decent under $100 tripod.Don't know about a $50 ball head.

I'd try ebay for a used Manfrotto 190 or 055.
There are some other brands (slik, velbon), but getting tripod *and* head new for $150 is going to involve compromises.

I don't think I spent quite $100 on my pod and head. Monopod that is with the tilt head.

Good, study, reliable tripod that will last for years for under $150, Not likely, at least not new. Used maybe or check out Amnova.

This seems to be a popular one. Or a nice carbon fiber for $9 more here.

Thanks for the replies so far.

So a Bogen 190XDB with a 484RC2 or a 055XDB with a 3025 3-d head aren't decent setups? They're in my price range on BH. I've thought about going the amnova route.

The legs are decent, but about $200 if you want a better head...
(separate pan lock, sturdier ballhead).

I have the Amvona 828AT and can say it is a rock solid tripod. A little heavy, but thats the price you pay sometimes. Check EBay for Amvona as these tripods sell for 1/2 or 1/3 on auctions as what is shown on that link.

EDIT: looking at EBay it seems like Amvona has decreased their listings a bit as they used to have multiple tripods listed. Not sure if it is just an off time for them or if they have decreased their auction listings. I bought the 828At and a aluminum monopod for under $100 about 8 months ago. 828 had the "trigger" grip style head and mono has pan/tilt head. I see neither of them listed now.

I got a Manfrotto 190XPRO with 804RC2 for $150 on eBay. Local, so I just picked it up after work (actually the woman who was selling it worked at the same place I did, we discovered after I bought it!)

So they are out there. Mine's practically unused, from a deceased estate.