What Kind of Tripod Do You Have OR: Help Me Pick One Out

[Taylor Genovese]

Hi,

I just bought an XL2 with mattebox/16x servo lens and I don't have a tripod. I'm just wondering what kind of make/models everyone has and how they like it?

I have a price range of around $200 for a tripod, so any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

[The Lone Banana]

For my XL-2, I got the Manfrotto 503,351MVCFK -- complete tripod kit in a bag -- and the 114MV dolly. (I think Manfrotto also goes by the brand name Bogen in the USA.) Nothing but good things to say about them. Alas for your budget, they were about $1,000.

I'd be curious what other people are using, too.

[peetdevos]

I use a Libec tripod (H37 head - not sure about the legs TC60?). Very very nice. I sure got respect for Libec products. But I think your budget may not be sufficient. I suggest to save for a good tripod - very important. Manfrotto is very good also, but Libec is amazing.

[Methane]

When I had my XL2 that was when I first realized a Best Buy tripod wasn't gonna cut it. I have the bottom end of the manfrotto line, a 501HDV head, and I can't remember the name of the legs, but they are basic manforottos too.

[moonlitnite]

Hi Taylor,

If you only have $200 for camera stabilization, you might want to use something like a bean bag until you can save some money for a real tripod. You're not going to find a suitable tripod to support a 10 pound camera for $200. Of course, if you'll only be using a 3X lens instead of the 20X and have the camera locked-down, you could get by with a cheaper tripod for now.

I consider my Bogen 503 acceptable/affordable - you can find them new on ebay for $500 including legs and a nice case. Someday when you're making $$$ you'll want to buy a high-end tripod like a Sachtler, Vinten, etc.

Good luck, Michael

[MarcoPolo]

This should become the defacto XL/ XH head. It will work with most legs/tripod with a 100 mm bowl.

http://www.varizoom.com/products/tri...rogravity.html