Suggestions for good tripod in the $500 range
 

I'm looking for a good solid tripod in the $500 - $600 range. I already have a pan head which is fine for my intended use with my GL-2. I've been using a carbon fiber photo tripod, but it's a bit more "wiggly" than I'd like when panning etc. Fine for the still camera, but...

Weight and max extension are considerations, but no specific requirement. The camera is really light, but I'd want a tripod that would be OK to weight down a bit for stability. I'd generally be using it within a few hundred yards of a vehicle, so ultra light weight isn't necessary, although it would be nice.

I'd also want a levelling ball, but no strong feeling re 75 vs 100 mm.

Any suggestions much appreciated.

Sorry to post again - I just forgot to click the "subscribe to replies" button.

Libec
 

I'm happy with my Libec tripod.

Which model do you have?

In case you're interested, there's a similar question here where someone asks about tripods in a similar price range:
http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=90821

From that thread:

great sub $500 (us) tripod
 

if you are looking for a sub $500 tripod have a look the Manfrotto 351mvb2 with 503 head, great tripod for the price. I paid $495 from Adorama (sorry not one of the sites advertisers but it would be available for BH). http://www.adorama.com/BG503351MVB2....1mvb&item_no=2

libec
 

I just bought a Libec T58 legs with an H22 DV head from www.zotzdigital.com (sponsor!) It was $400 with the HX A1, ($450 without, I think). I like that it has a ball mount for easy leveling. It came with the floor spreaders and a carry bag. With the adjustable plate, my HX A1 balances well on top.

I had the opportunity to use a $6,000 Sachtler this weekend, too. Besides being built for a heavier camera than an HX A1, it had 8 settings for pan drag and 8 settings for tilt drag. Obviously a very solid tripod. By comparison, the Libec has a medium touch on the drag but just as smooth.

My first tripod was a Bogan with a 3130 head. It didn't have a true fluid head, so it would grab a little. Also, the legs were actually designed for still photography with a flat plate head, even though it had a bubble level.

By contrast, the Libec is very much a performer. Set up the legs, loosen the ball, level and attach the camera. It is a true video tripod.