I've finally gotten tired of my cheap tripod, and by tired I mean that I want to chuck it off a building, so it's time to upgrade.

My budget goes up to $300, but I want to keep it around $200 if possible. I'm leaning towards carbon fiber legs and a Manfrotto 488 ballhead. My heaviest gear is a 20d and 70-200, but that may increase. I plan on going to a good photo store near me and playing around with the equipment. But I will buy the equipment used. Just looking for some more info and recommendations now.

Thanks,

I just asked the same question.

Here is my thread: http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/644569

I bought a 190XPROB for my 20d and 70-200f4. Whilst the tripod was generally excellent, it just was not stable enough in anything but perfect conditions. I am now upgrading to a gitzo.

Alex

Yea, I realize that this question has been asked a lot; but I couldn't find anything talking about entry level carbon fiber legs. The 190XPROB legs are heavier than I want.

Ideally, the total weight (ballhead+legs) would be around 3-4 lbs. Is this too much to ask for considering my price range and also to insure good stability?

My friend uses Feisol 3401 legs + Manfrotto 488RC4 ballhead, and he's had no problems with it. I got my hands on it for a little while and enjoyed it.

I dont know about feilsol tropods, but certainly that is a pretty tall order. That would be an incredibly cheap CF tripod for $200-300. As you willl find people here genally say you can have 2 of: stability, lightweight, low cost. You may want to look at second hand too, the buy and sell is a great place for that.

Alex

I just picked up a Feisol 3401 myself and was extremely impressed by the initial impressions of quality. Pretty sturdy for the price and weight.

Obviously I have no idea about long term quality. Seems nice, though, and the price is great.

Ditto, don't goo cheap or buy used. It will be an investment well spent.
Gene

It's been posted here many times, but it's still true. You can have cheap, light, or stable, but never all 3 at the same time. Obviously, one of those factors should be paramount, regardless of circumstances involved. Think about why you're using a tripod - stability.

also interested in this question..

one option....have no experience with it...any one does here?

From - http://www.bythom.com/support.htm

"If you need a less expensive solution and know you won't be shooting with lenses over two pounds (basically under 300mm),

Hakuba HG-503MX or HG-404MX carbon fiber tripod (US$290-300). "

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/258642-REG/Hakuba_HG503MX_HG_503MX_Carbon_Fiber_3_Section.html

Thanks for all the input. But for now, a new Feisol 3402 and a Manfrotto 488RC2 ball head are winning. I just can't validate going over my price limit, and this seems like the best bang for the buck. If there are any other alternatives to this setup or if anyone has had bad experiences with this equipment, please post it.