Sub-$200 video camera tripod that doesn't suck

[slackerinabox]

I've been through 3 $100 tripods in the last 2 years - the legs are always made of some durable/awesome metal (titanium or aluminum) but the heads on cheaper tripods tend to be made out of plastic. with heavy use and heavier prosumer cameras (20 pounds with lens) these tripods tend to be disposable. I need a good sub- $200 tripod that has a nice fluid head and will last a few years.. Any suggestions? I can't quite afford a $399 bogen right now.

 

[Falloutboy]

under 200 you aren't going to get anything worth a damn. hell I can't stand my 500 dollor one at work and its a POS.

 

[daniel1113]

I would get a decent Bogen/Monfrotto for $400 that will last the average consumer a lifetime.

 

[gsellis]

Fluidhead under $200? Probably not. Try eBay and may a 503. A 501 is ok, but only semi-fluid. Look for Miller too

 

[slackerinabox]

OK, assuming I scrape up my pennies and go for a $400 one - what brands other than bogen are worth it? I'm asking because having more choice allows me to perhaps grab a deal on ebay for a lesser know but equally sturdy brand...
Thanks!

 

[Anubis]

what procuker camera are you useing the weighs 20lbs?????

sh!t i dont even think my 4x5 weighs 20lbs

 

[JulesMaximus]

Personally, I prefer tripods that are made of unobtainium. That's the best metal for tripods and bicycles.

 

[yhelothar]

Amvona makes some very good bogen knockoffs. I got one from ebay for $50, and the quality is phenomenal. I would easily say it's better than the $150 bogen/manfrotto one I use at work.
You can get carbon fiber ones for under $200 on ebay from Amvona. I would recommend that.
Here's a pic, the entire thing is made out of aluminum

Here's a carbon fiber/magnesium alloy one that went for $156

 

[Falloutboy]

Originally posted by: Anubis
what procuker camera are you useing the weighs 20lbs?????

sh!t i dont even think my 4x5 weighs 20lbs

the Xl2 I use at work with Anton Bower batteries ways pretty damn close to that

 

[slackerinabox]

Originally posted by: Anubis
what procuker camera are you useing the weighs 20lbs?????

sh!t i dont even think my 4x5 weighs 20lbs

I've used an XL2 with lens, battery pack and the added stress of the xlr hook ups - 20 is over kill but I'd rather be safe than sorry

 

[slackerinabox]

Originally posted by: virtualgames0
Amvona makes some very good bogen knockoffs. I got one from ebay for $50, and the quality is phenomenal. I would easily say it's better than the $150 bogen/manfrotto one I use at work.
You can get carbon fiber ones for under $200 on ebay from Amvona. I would recommend that.
Here's a pic, the entire thing is made out of aluminum

Here's a carbon fiber/magnesium alloy one that went for $156

Good to know! Thanks!