Flexible tripod rig for GH2 + extras <$500

[God at play]

I've done some searching around here for tripod rig recommendations, but am still confused as to what would be a good option for me.

My budget is less than $500 for a tripod rig, ideally $300 to make room for other equipment, and I'm looking to invest most of that in the head to upgrade sticks later if needed.

Initially our shooting will probably be about 80/20 indoors/outdoors and maybe 50% tripod shots.

#1 priority is head fluidity
#2 priority is fast setup
#3 priority is quick-changing with an attached handheld rig

I don't want something with non-removable floor stabilizer bars or whatever.

We'll probably have some kind of shoulder or bracket rig in the future, and I'd like to just be able to stick on the tripod rig and take it back off on a whim.

Based on my research and budget, it seems like an ePhoto solution might be a good option? I've heard a couple people say the quality is close to Manfrotto but much cheaper. Cool by me, brand doesn't really matter as long as the solution is flexible for different rigs.

 

[m1rogers]

For a tripod head try the Manfrotto 501HDV Pro Video Head --> http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/481667-REG/Manfrotto_501HDV_501HDV_Pro_Video_Head.html

The price is attractive and the head is fluid.

 

[pomoville]

I was looking at the 501, but it actually isn't truly fluid. I was torn between either the Weifeng 717 (the taller version on ebay, the other legs are stubby,) and the Manfrotto 701. I ended up going with the 701, but if you think you'll need to put more than nine pounds on there, I think the Weifeng's a good choice. The Manfrotto + Bogen 3221 legs was $230, while the Weifeng is $180 on eBay.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=360305764080&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

If you want a more sturdy Manfrotto Head, you might be able to make it under $500 on a 503 or 504, if you went for relatively cheap legs. From what I've seen, the Weifeng is definitely smoother than the 501 (check youtube for a comparison between 501 and 701, they're pretty far apart.)

 

[God at play]

Thanks guys, this is a huge help. I think I might go with a 717, and then if our rig gets too big upgrade at that point.

The 718 quick release looks really nice, but alas not available right now...pity.