[SteveRamsden]

I am looking to buy a new tripod and head
It will need to support a Swarovski ATS80 HD, with DCB and coolpix 4500
Use includes digiscoping but also a lot of conventional birding, so weight and portability is an issue, as well as stability.
My budget is c. £200-300

I am think about a carbon fibre tripod and one of the video heads but to be frank I know nothing about them, so any help appreciated.

Thanks

[Kevin Mac]

I think the pound is worth a little over two Canadian dollars. A carbon tripod is about $350- 500 (before tax), a Manfrotto Video fluid head $100.
I have a Manfrotto pro 055 which cost $220. A very good tripod but up there in the weight department. Nice and steady though if you don't have to raise it too high(center column). I have the same scope as you, don't skimp on the support. Buy the best component you can afford. I bought a very expensive ballhead - Markins M-10- and love it. Next I'd like to get a carbon tripod. Maybe you should buy the tripod now and save for a good head later, just get top notch stuff, you will never be sorry!

[IanF]

I use the manfrotto Carbon One (443)+ 128RC head for the same scope and camera but with the DCA adapter.

I also have the 055NAT which I'd say was a more stable tripod in windy conditions but is obviously haevier to carry about.

Both tripods are eminently suitable for the combo.

[simon]

Steve
I use exactly the same setup as you and use the manfrotto 443 with the 701rc2 head. I find this head superb for digi scoping especially the sliding top which really does help counterbalancing the extra weight with the camera etc on the back. There is a review on Andy Brights digiscoping website which you may find worth reading. I agree with Ian the 055 is more stable in windy conditions but is considerably heavier

[pete schofield]

Hi Steve if weight is an issue go with Simon's suggestion I have just changed myself for the same reason. I used to use a manfrotto 190 with 501 head and although I have only had the 443 and 701rc2 head for a week it looks as though it will do the job just as well as my old set up and significantly lighter.

Pete

[SteveRamsden]

Thanks all

Have ordered a 443 + 701RC2, sounds like just the job

Steve