I think I've made my choices....

for a tripod/head combo and they are Manfrotto 190XPROB with 804RC2 head.
Any users of these here have some feedback before I pull the trigger?

There are lots of users of the 190XPROB out there and it is a very good tripod for the money. Now the 804RC2 on the other hand isnt so popular as most prefer ball heads over anything else.

What makes you choose the 804RC2 over something like a 488RC2?

I spent about an hour trying out different tripods and heads. I did try the 488 although a great head, I wasn't diggin it. I like the level on the 804 and plan to do a lot of panoramas and the 804 seem to operate the way I liked.

Well I would like to add that MANY of us started off with 3 axis heads like the 804RC2 and I think youll find like most of us did that a ball head is simply more convenient, lighter, and often stronger and will end up migrating to one eventually.

...but, I have been wrong before.

Thanks for the input Ben. That is what I want to hear. What I want most is to be able to get the tripod and head level. The 190 has a built in bubble level and so does the 804, the 488 doesn't though. I would find that I would be constantly fighting to get it perfectly level for multiple shot panoramas. Someone correct me if I am wrong or missing something about the 488.

I don't have that tripod or any of the heads mentioned but if your concern is ensuring things are level you could always pick up a hotshoe level. They seem to be reasonably inexpensive.

Yea I dont depend on a tripod level either, I use one of these when being level is critical: LINK

a hotshoe level was my first thought too but would that work for panos if the tripod isn't level?

ed rader

Thanks. I've been debating about a bubble level for some time. Haven't bought one due to price yet. Locally they are pricey.

Ed, I think you are correct. It the tripod isn't level, taking multiple pan shots is tough. Specially when trying to stitch them together.

ed rader wrote in post #6239453
a hotshoe level was my first thought too but would that work for panos if the tripod isn't level?

ed rader

Well the tripod legs themselves should have a level built in its column right? So once thats level the head (which ever is used) should be as well and the panning base should be all that needs to be moved.

Also, budget is a factor too. The 190 is $199.99 and the 804 is $92.99 locally. I wanted to keep it around $300. If I get the 488 I would most definitely need a bubble level. Which puts me well over the $300 range.

Why buy locally? Amazon.... Free shipping no tax for most.... $199 is expensive for the 190XPROB...

Ya, I agree, but to ship to Canada all said n done will cost me more then amazon by time I get. Then I still have wait. LOL Once I decide I want something I want it NOW! hahah I am looking at online places to order, preferable in Canada to save on shipping/duties.

Bogen 190XPROB from Amazon.com for $160 free shipping no tax: LINK

Bogen 488RC2 from Amazon.com for $110 free shipping no tax: LINK

Adorama 2 Axis Bubble Level through Amazon.com $20 shipped no tax LINK

There is your setup under $300.