Newbie light & non-wobbly tripod question

[Cui Xia]

Hi, all.

I've searched and researched extensively and would appreciate your help with a tripod choice. The background is that I have recently been given the chance to shoot news-type images using a PD150 as part of my work. However, the tripod that comes with it is a really heavy Sachtler that I have trouble carrying for more than 10 steps.

So my idea is that I should invest in my own tripod.

I've pretty much settled on a Manfrotto 503 head, but what legs should I get? My wish list is:

- just heavy enough for non-wobby shooting (PD150, Manfrotto 503)
- preferably with a spreader (even if it's an accessory/option) as I recently used a super lightweight Manfrotto and I got so annoyed by the legs going everywhere everytime I moved the camera!
- max height more than 160cm (that's just over 5ft)
- fast setup, eg. with latches rather than those twist locks.

Oh, and it has to be really cheap. I'll consider anything, not just the big brand names. I have to be able to attach the 503 head, though, if that's an issue...

I don't need something that will get really low to the ground as I am mainly in the city, indoors or just in the usual settings (outside buildings, in people's offices, etc.).

Any suggestions? I'm in Belgium and there isn't a big camera place where you can go and test all the available models so I am hoping someone here has a couple of recommendations.

Thanks a lot!

Cui Xia