Best Under $400 Or So
 

I'm looking for a tripod system with adjustable pan and tilt drag. Can you recommend one, or two, or three?

Re: Best Under $400 Or So
 

I come from the still world, so I started with a Manfrotto 055X tripod (about $140 at B&H), and later added a Manfrotto 502HD head ($170 at B&H). I'm very happy with the combo. B&H has a kit, sticks and head and carrying case, for $330. I found the head used, but barely, on eBay for a bit less.

Disclaimer: I don't work for B&H or Manfrotto!

Re: Best Under $400 Or So
 

It would help to know what you plan to mount on said tripod and how you intend to use it. Mostly locked off, attaching slider, etc.

Re: Best Under $400 Or So
 

I'm going to use the tripod with a camcorder, a Canon HF-G10 to be precise (It's the same as the XA10).

Weight wise, since I'm going to be attaching an XLR adapter and a portable audio recorder, the weight will most likely add up to about 4 lbs.

I would like to be able to do a lot of pans and some tilts.

I had a Manfrotto 501 head until a couple of years ago. It was OK, but I'd like to have something that is less bulky, but provides more precise control.

Re: Best Under $400 Or So
 

Has anyone had any experience with Dracast tripods? They appear to be well-built, but reviews are scant online.

Re: Best Under $400 Or So
 

I recently picked up a Manfrotto flat base 502HD head to go on my 3221WN sticks, and am pretty happy with this compromise setup. Leveling the thing without a proper ball blows, but they have an adapter that can be added to the head in the future when I get a proper set of video sticks.

The head itself is insanely large, but pans and tilts are decent enough for a head that's well under $200.

Re: Best Under $400 Or So
 

Have you looked at the fancier 270a I think it will be right up your street and price.