Not another tripod suggestion thread!

[molested_cow]

Ok I've searched the forum for tripod related topics but I guess mine is a little more specific.

I am shopping for a tripod for my office. It needs to be sturdy (cast AL mounting head), 3-way pan head and light weight.

I am using my personal tripod as the bench mark, the Slik Pro 330DX. I've checked the Slik Pro line and there's nothing lighter than the 330DX. I have had this tripod for years and very happy with it, just looking to see if there is any other lighter option I can pick from. On BnH.com, the 330DX is rated at around 3.2lb(which I highly doubt). Every other Slik Pro tripods are heavier except those really small ones.

Purpose? Both in-house shots with DSLR or travel when we need to mound consumer grade DVs. The requirement on the head isn't really high, just don't want plastic ones. So the main thing is the weight issue.

So if you know of any light weight entry-level pro tripods, please let me know, thanks!


Edit:

BTW I prefer 3-way pan head because it's easier to make small adjustments. I won't mind ball head if the leg/combo's weight is compelling.

 

[imstuner]

What is your max budget?

 

[mikehaugen]

I don't know how it compares to the 330dx (gotta be lighter than my 700dx) but the bogen 055** series seemed pretty light when I looked at them. I know it's not metal but the 804rc2 head is actually pretty sturdy I think for plastic, and it will also keep the weight down.

 

[molested_cow]

Has anyone had experience with Benro?

452-058 Benro C-058EX C-Series EX Quick-Lock Carbon Fiber Tripod, Supports 8.8 lbs, Maximum Height 55"

I found the same CF legs on Amazon for much cheaper. We have an extra ball head that can go onto this thing, so I don't necessarily need the mount to come with the tripod.

Budget wise, I am looking at a max of $150, trying to keep it reasonable. Most of the CF legs are $200++. The Benro is the only one in the $100++ range that seems decent. Also, I like how it's got the quick release as opposed to the twist locks.

The reason why I avoid plastic mounting heads like STD is because my camera has fallen off one before. The entire release area broke off from the mount, sending the camera tumbling to the rock ground. Luckily I hadn't extended the legs yet so it was about 1.5ft of drop. Otherwise it would be a lot worse. I had to had my camera lens mount realigned and my telephoto lens overhauled. It wasn't pretty at all.

 

[imstuner]

This kit is $209.95

and weigh in at 5lbs with the included head but no pan.

Manfrotto 190XPROB Tripod Kit (Black) B&H Photo Video

Manfrotto 190XPROB Tripod Kit (Black)

I have that tripod with this head that pan and will make the total weigh at 5.34 lbs. ( Manfrotto 498 MAXI BALL HEAD w/RC2 QR PLATE - MA498RC2 + Manfrotto 190XPROB 3-SEC. ALUMINUM PRO TRIPOD - MA190XPROB ) total price $233.42 before shipping.

 

[mikehaugen]

The reason why I avoid plastic mounting heads like STD is because my camera has fallen off one before. The entire release area broke off from the mount, sending the camera tumbling to the rock ground. Luckily I hadn't extended the legs yet so it was about 1.5ft of drop. Otherwise it would be a lot worse. I had to had my camera lens mount realigned and my telephoto lens overhauled. It wasn't pretty at all.

I can understand that, but maybe it was a cheaper head? I mount my camera with 100-400L lens and may get just a little flex if I try, but I still feel confident with it. I even put it on my monopod sometimes and carry it around by that.