OK, im convinced.
 

I bought a 501/3221 combo tripod for my XL2 a while back. It worked fine for starters. Now as my projects get more serious, so do the demands of my tripod. The 501/3221 combo is fine for vacation video. But it's not cutting it anymore. Soft wind blows, and my XL2 becomes a weather vane, etc. On zoomed in or close shots, the footage gets shaky if you hardly touch the camera.

I need a new tripod. I want something ROCK steady, and compact as possible with a mid level spreader. Weight is not an issue. Under $1500 would be nice.

Suggestions?

Hi Adam,

I've got the 3026 Head with 3011 Legs Combo. I've modified both, the Tri-Pod with a removable center tray (which can hold Batterys, Tapes, and/or a small Monitor) to lock the legs along with using leg weights, up to 30 Lbs worth -depending on situation. I mount the weights at the top of the legs.

For the Head unit, I've made up a telescoping control handle(s) set-up, along with a vertically articulating Cam to Head mount.

This set-up gives much greater stability and Cam control than the stock system.

I have no trouble when shooting Horse Shows outside in some rather good winds.

Check my posts for Pics of all these Mods. Very cheap and easy to make yourself, as compaired to shelling out lots more $$ for more equipment.

Harold

PS: Once I set up the Cam, I don't have to touch it, since I use either/or both a wired and Infrared Remote, along with an LCD Monitor. Usually have both remotes connected, to use with either hand.