Need Tripod Head Recommendations Please

[Krioni]

I have a serviceable set of tripod legs, so I just need a tripod head right now.

I would like to stay $75 (US) shipped or less. Less would certainly be nice.

I would also prefer a ball head... I think... but I could be talked out of it I suppose.

My camera is a nikon D50 and currently my longest zoom is 200mm.

I would like to use it for landscape/nature photography and general family use. Basically, it's going to be my only tripod. So, I'll be using it for any kind of shooting you can think of.

Thanks in advance for your recommendations!

UPDATE
If you've read the thread, you know that I ordered the Bogen/Manfrotto 488RC2. Well, I cancelled my order. I went to a local shop and saw how big that thing is... it's ginormous!!!!!!!

So, I am again open to any suggestions. I'm certain there are many of you out there that have tripods... tell me what you're using.

 

[soydios]

I have the Bogen-Manfrotto 486RC2 ball head. It works great for my needs. I've put an AF-S 400mm f/2.8, TC-20eII, and D50 on it and locked it down for astrophotography, and put my D50 with 50mm f/1.8 on it for stage photography. It's very versatile, and Bogen-Manfrotto has a well-deserved reputation for top-notch camera support equipment.

 

[Krioni]

Originally posted by: soydios
I have the Bogen-Manfrotto 486RC2 ball head. It works great for my needs. I've put an AF-S 400mm f/2.8, TC-20eII, and D50 on it and locked it down for astrophotography, and put my D50 with 50mm f/1.8 on it for stage photography. It's very versatile, and Bogen-Manfrotto has a well-deserved reputation for top-notch camera support equipment.

At this point, I'm leaning toward the Bogen-Manfrotto 486RC2. I was hoping to either get some other options or to get my current choice confirmed (which you have done).

Thanks!

 

[Alyx]

I'm also using the 486RC2. It would be perfect for your use I think. Mine is a little older and I don't treat it very well and its still holding up like a tank.

You might want to purchase a tripod ring/mount plate for your 200mm zoom, I tried mounting my 70-200 F/2.8 a few times just with the camera and the droop was pretty annoying. After purchasing a second plate for the lens tripod ring I've had no problems.

 

[Krioni]

Originally posted by: Alyx
I'm also using the 486RC2. It would be perfect for your use I think. Mine is a little older and I don't treat it very well and its still holding up like a tank.

You might want to purchase a tripod ring/mount plate for your 200mm zoom, I tried mounting my 70-200 F/2.8 a few times just with the camera and the droop was pretty annoying. After purchasing a second plate for the lens tripod ring I've had no problems.

Mine is the cheaper (lighter) 200mm zoom... I think f/4.0-5.6 (something like that). Do you think it would be fine?

If I get this tripod head, I probably won't be able to afford anything additional for a while.

 

[Alyx]

Originally posted by: Krioni

Originally posted by: Alyx
I'm also using the 486RC2. It would be perfect for your use I think. Mine is a little older and I don't treat it very well and its still holding up like a tank.

You might want to purchase a tripod ring/mount plate for your 200mm zoom, I tried mounting my 70-200 F/2.8 a few times just with the camera and the droop was pretty annoying. After purchasing a second plate for the lens tripod ring I've had no problems.

Mine is the cheaper (lighter) 200mm zoom... I think f/4.0-5.6 (something like that). Do you think it would be fine?

If I get this tripod head, I probably won't be able to afford anything additional for a while.

I used mine without the tripod ring for a few months, it does work. I'm sure you'd be fine doing the same and see how noticeable it is with your lens.

 

[Krioni]

Well, I ended up ordering the Bogen 488RC2 (this one)

Anyone have experience with that?

Damn, my wife is going to kill me!

 

[Krioni]

Well, I cancelled my order for the 488rc2. I went to a local shop and saw how big that thing is... it's ginormous!!!!!!!

So, I am again open to any suggestions.

Thanks

 

[soydios]

again, I :heart: my 486RC2. it's not as ginormous as the 488. just perfect in my book. though make sure that it will screw onto your tripod.

 

[Krioni]

Originally posted by: soydios
again, I :heart: my 486RC2. it's not as ginormous as the 488. just perfect in my book. though make sure that it will screw onto your tripod.

Yeah, I think I'm going to just get that one. I keep getting tempted by cheaper knock-off type ball heads... but I fear I'll regret that and end up buying the 486RC2 in the end.

Thanks!

 

[soydios]

once you pick up a Bogen-Manfrotto product, you realize what you've been missing by buying cheaper knock-offs. build quality is superb.

 

[Krioni]

Well, I just went during lunch and bought the Bogen/Manfrotto 486RC2.

Can't wait to get home to test it out.... maybe some decent sunset pictures.

Thanks to all who replied and helped out!