First Tripod - Suggestions needed.

Hi POTN, well not really my first tripod (I have a Modo Maxi) but my kit has way outgrown the 1 KG limit, and it isn't the most stable tripod as it is.

I have a budget of around 200 pound (give or take) to spend on a good tripod and head.

I was looking at:-

Manfrotto 055XPROB Tripod

http://www.warehouseex​press.com …/default.aspx?s​ku=1019760
Manfrotto 322RC2 Horizontal Grip Action Ball Head

http://www.warehouseex​press.com …ct/default.aspx​?sku=10912

I'm open to other suggestions and combinations, I would prefer getting a ball head (with handle), because I quite like the handle/grip on my Modo Maxi.

Should take a minimum, of 3/4kg I guess (a 1/1.5 KG lens, a gripped 5DMK II, and then some)

Any suggestions are much appreciated.

My personal opinion is that the Manfrotto 488RC2 is a far more versatile and useful head than the 322RC2.

You don't need to keep one of your hands on the grip to make adjustments. Merely loosen the main knob a little and then, with two hands, adjust the aim.

The 488RC2 has a separate pan release that is very useful when making a simple panoramic series of shots.

The 488RC2 packs and carries a LOT better than the 322 with its handle sticking out.

the legs have been well documented to be nice, cant go wrong. the head however I hated, no matter how tight id force the "friction knob" you coudl still move the head by hand quite easily. Just get a 486/488RC2.

I had posted some information in this thread along with some photos. It is about the 10th post down in the thread.

https://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthre​ad.php?t=718631

Thanks fellas, this is just the kind of advice I needed.

Well guys, I bought the Manfrotto 055XPROB Tripod and the 488RC2 Ball head in the end, and yep it is good, don't really miss the handle etc. Thanks for the suggestion.

any comments on its weight ?

The weight of the tripod? It's defo not one I would recommend if you need some quite light, to use often and go hiking/walks etc - I was really tempted to just op for a lighter, more compact 190, which one be more suited for carrying often.

But I guess the slightly more sturdy/weight capacity of the 055XPROB swung it (I know it will handle all I have, and for the foreseeable future) I still would of really liked something a lil lighter, carbon fibre is way out of my budget for now. Plus I won't carry it often. I bought the bag for it, which kind of makes it easier to just grab and go.

I don't use my 322 RC2 often because you have to hold the grip to move it. I would not get another one. I keep it in my vehicle attached to a window mount. It would be OK for a studio, but not for action.