Help selecting a Tripod Head

[Kevinch]

Hi folks. First post from a new member, although I've lurked here for a while.

By way of a Christmas gift from my fantastic wife, I recently graduated to a DSLR & I'm the happy owner of a Nikon D60. Now, I definetly need a new tripod.

I've looked over the threads here on TPF, & think I've settled on the [URL="http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/cache/off/pid/13145?livid=68|69&idx=71[/URL"]Manfrotto 190XPROB[/URL]. I also think my first head will be a ball type. But beyond that I'm a little confused & could use some help deciding.

My next lens will probably be the Nikkor 55-200 DX VR, so I will need a head to hold the camera secure whith that lens mounted. Sticking with Manfrotto, the 468 series looks to be outside my price range. The [URL="http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/cache/bypass/pid/2305?livid=80|81&lsf=81&child=2[/URL"]488[/URL] is more to my price point; also the [URL="http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/cache/bypass/pid/2309?livid=80|81&lsf=81&child=2[/URL"]490[/URL]. Is one more appropriate with my setup than the other?

Beyond the ball, I'm really confused over the QR systems. There seems to be a lot to pick from - there's an RCO; RC2; & RC4 system. Then there's all the different plates...I really don't have a clear picture & it's difficult to decide. Does the higher RC# mean a larger or more robust mount? Any help is appreciated!

 

[soylentgreen]

You are pretty much on the right track. The RC2 is the standard quick release plate that is a small rectangle. It will support most items up to 8-10 lbs or so. The larger RC4 is a octangonal plate designed for much heavier equipment. Medium format, super-telephoto lenses. Quick release is a convenient feature nowadays. Each manufacturer makes their own in a variety of sizes to suit everyone's needs. You should be fine with the RC2 since those lenses you have do not have a tripod collar. You will jsut attach the plate to your camera body.

 

[Warren_G]

Unless you are gonna get really heavy glass, the 486-RC2 Manfrotto ballhead is pretty much the perfect head. I use one with up to a 300mm zoom and it is rock solid without being too heavy or bulky. The 488 is a step up, and gives you a panning lock, but the 486 is all I use now.

 

[Kevinch]

...thank you!

 

[Johnboy2978]

Might also check the 322RC2. That's what I use with the same legs and it's rock solid and the pistol grip makes changes to the setup effortless. I also added a panning base from FEISOL Technology Corporation to aid with panoramas ($30). Works like a charm

 

[davebmck]

I like that panning base, but now it is selling for $39 plus $19 for shipping. Does anyone else sell one?

 

[Johnboy2978]

I think that's as cheap as you'll find. It works rather well and has a really smooth action.

 

[Iron Flatline]

I love geared heads.