Recommendation for tripod and head

[dfoo]

I have a Manfrotto 725b digi which I quite like. However, the tripod head isn't strong enough for my current equipment. I use the tripod primarily for my hasselblad and (don't kill me) Canon 5D w/ grip and some longer lenses. The head obviously isn't built for such a heavy camera, and it slips which is annoying.

What I want is a tripod with a head strong enough for these cameras, but doesn't weigh a ton! I'd also like a built in level (something with the manfrotto lacks). Any recommendations?

 

[Uhner]

A friend of mine has a Berlebach Report tripod that works really well. In due time I will buy one for myself.

Take a look at http://www.berlebach.de/

 

[Laurent]

I have a Berlebach report (8023 I think) for my LF Camera, which is absolutely fine (but the camera isn't that heavy as it is a Tachihara).

In 35 mm, I successfully use a Manfrotto 055 with 141 RC head. It's not exactly light, has no nuilt-in level, but is really up to the job with my EOS-3 + BPE2 + Sigma 300 mm.

 

[Fotoguy20d]

I asked a similar question not too long ago. Here's the thread:

(there was a url link here which no longer exists)

 

[Anupam Basu]

Look at the Feisol tripods and Markins heads if those are within your budget. You could get a setup under 1.5 kgs that can comfortably hold your gear.

 

[panastasia]

....What I want is a tripod with a head strong enough for these cameras, but doesn't weigh a ton! I'd also like a built in level (something with the manfrotto lacks). Any recommendations?

Acratech ball heads are rated for 25 lb loads and weight about 1 lb - that's hard to beat. I recommend one w/rubberized knobs. I have one that can hold my RB with any lens, focusing rails or whatever, in any position. (no built in level).

 

[haris]

I have Manfrotto 055 nature and 029 head, I use it with Mamiya RB and it is more than enough for the job. I think it can hold even 8x10 camera... It is heavy. For EOS3 I use Slik 500DX pro (weight 2,5 kg), my Manfrotto combo is not for carrying it around

 

[2F/2F]

Bogen 3033 is my favorite "smallish" but "good" tripod. They are not the easiest to find, but I feel that they are worth the search due to the quick action of the simultaneous expansion of the legs from the center column, as opposed to the 3021. I also find them to be wonderfully lightweight considering how well built they are. I wish I had not sold mine. I also wish that the 3050 had the same quick-expanding legs. This is the only thing I do not like about the 3050.

The 3047 head has never caused me to complain or to wish I had something different; ever. They are sturdy, easily found, inexpensive, and can handle many times the weight of the equipment you mentioned. I personally dislike ballheads (and think they are crazily overpriced), but I suppose they might be useful to some.

I would buy used. I would never buy a new tripod. They lose so much value once originally purchased that it is disgusting...but good for buyers. Very little ever goes wrong with them as well; the good ones, anyhow.