Is this a quality tripod for the money? Its close to 300.00 in Canada for both. The store I am dealing with primarily carries Manfrotto and they suggested this was my best bang for the buck with my gear:
d70
70-200 vr
300 f4
18-70
50 1.8
The tripod I have now is a Velbon. Its very lightweight but I definitely need to spend money on something quality. I want an all-purpose tripod and weight is not an issue.
I believe that the Manfrotto 488 Ballhead replaces the 168 ballhead. Currently the heaviest equipement that I place on my Manfrotto 055B and 168 head is an F5 with a 70-200 AFS VR. My tripod does hold the weight but I see that the weakest link is the ballhead ( it holds the weight but doesn't feel as re-assuring as when I have an F5 with my 50mm f1.8) that is why I am looking to upgrade mine to a Markins M10.
So my answer to you is try spending a bit more on the head but the legs should be fine. Hope this help is not too late for you!
I think the Manfrotto 055 is an excellent set of legs. It is strong, durable, and very versitile.
The 486 head is more on the entry level for ball heads, and from Manfrotto, you have several good choices. The 488RC2 is an excellent head, with independant controls for tilt and swivel. It is a few dollars more, but worth the extra in the long run.
I have had the 055 for many years and I'm happy with it. I don't know about the ball heads, but I use the new 322 rc2, and consider it very versatile. I also have a 405 gear head for telescopes in my astronomy hobby. My longest lens is the Canon 100-400 L IS, sometimes paired up with the extender 1.4X II, on a 10D. No problem, but I advise mirror lockup at slow shutter speeds.
Hope this helps.
Dave Williamson
I just bought the 055 BPRO tripod w/ the 486RC2 ball head and plate. So far so good. The pod is a bit heavy but sturdy and well built. The head is on the lower grade but I don't have any large heavy lens so it works out fine. Also it has one control for tilt and swivel, and for me this makes it simple and easy to adjust quickly. For the value you can't go wrong.
