Libec TH 650 or 3182/501?

[Raoul Perros]

Hi All!

I am aware that the 'which tripod issue' has been here several times. But...

I was about to order a Libec TH 650 for only $180 and then started reading a lot of posts about tripods.

Now I am thinking of getting the Bogen 3182/501 combo ( with a 3502 for about $530) , as I found some threads in which this combo is recommended as a good start up, smallish budget alternative...

Is it true that the 503 is not so good to use with a camera as light as the DVX100A?

Basically, I am getting a DVX100A and some additional kit like a shotgun mic, a tripod, some filters... My budget reached it's limits already. I need the tripod mainly for still shots, but obviously will also be wanting to do some pans and tilts, not in extreme telezoom wildlife style though...

Does anyone know the Libec TH 650? What are the experiences? It's supposed to hold 4 kg...

And how heavy is the 3182/501 combo?

Any advice/comments much appreciated!

Thanks,

Raoul