It is about time to start blogging again. The summer is (almost) over and spending time indoors is more likely for the coming period, hence there is time for blogging.

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This week I have become the glad owner of a new tripod-system, the Manfrotto 190CXPro3 with Ballhead 496RC2. In addition I also have a new mono-pod, the Manfrotto 680B.

For a while I have been searching the market and internet for a good alternative for my Cullmann 2600, which did not have a very flexible head, in my opinion. On various forums and blogs I have been reading about the requirements and pros and cons of the models available.

Since I am traveling quite a bit my requirements were set in the following order:

  1. Light, i.e. not more than 2 kg
  2. Easy to use, i.e. flexible, adjustable and preferably with a ballhead
  3. Sturdy, i.e. should be able to carry one of my DSLR’s with telelens
  4. Not outrageous expensive, i.e. below 400€

After thorough research my choice was made for the mentioned Manfrotto 190CXPro3 with Ballhead 496RC2. Manfrotto has introduced this new version in the 190-model range in 2009. The material is carbon fiber and therefore very light, it weighs only 1,29 kg, while still being sturdy enough to carry a max 5 kg load. The Q90 (quick release column) system and the ballhead makes this tripod combination extremely easy to use. The price remained under the target of 400€.

The size of the tripod is of less importance to me, but the Manfrotto 190CXPro3 is folded not more than 58cm and folded out it reaches a length of 156cm (including the ballhead).

Feel free to leave any comments if you have experience with this or other favorite tripod models.