My budget for a new Tripod w/head is around $200... I know that in this range I'm not going to get something awesome like a Sachtler or O'Connor... Maybe once I really start making money at this, but for now I'm just getting started! I was just hoping to get anyone's opinion on the following holding up an EX1:

Matthews M25 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/502679-REG/Matthews_M25_M25_Tripod_System.html)
v.
ProVista w/FM18 head. (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/243272-REG/Davis_Sanford_PROVISTA7518B_Pro_Vista_Tripod_with.html)

I think the ProVista is the better buy as it is a 75mm ball with what looks to me to be a little better head. However, I'm just wondering what anyone's experience has been with either set of sticks...

Thanks for any input and I'll see you in the field!

What can I say but, better to throw away a couple of hundred bucks than any more while you save up for what is really the minimum. You really DO need to spend around $1400 USD before you get what is adequate.

I am sorry that I can't provide any more advice on your purchase more than this.