Monfrotto Tripod

Hi,

I would like some advice please.
I have ordered a tripod for the first time as I am just starting out with my K20d.

I ordered a Monfrotto 190xdb + 486rc2 tripod kit for general landscapes etc and they sent me a 190xprob with an 494rc2 head.
I have had a little look at the 494rc2 on-line and it said it can take up to up to 4kg. I know the camera is only 750g and my tamron 70 - 300 is not that heavy. Do you think I should send it back or will I be ok to use the head with the k20d safely?

Thanks

Lee

I'd say 4kg is ample for your K20D and most (if not all) lenses you'll ever use it with. By the time you get to lenses that weigh more than 2-3kg then you're in the realms of the super-telephotos that cost as much as a small car and you'll probably want a dedicated gimbal-type tripod head with them anyway.

It's down to you I'm and pan head man my self with a 804rc2 x2

I to own a k20d and the tamron 70-300mm f2.8 and a Grip and I wouldn't put any of my kit on a ball head but that is just me

James

I wouldn't have used a ball head until I got a Benbo tripod and ball head. Rock solid so I would expect a Manfrotto to be equally as confidence inspiring.

Mike

The Manfrotto ball head I had with my Bembo was absolutely fine (until one of my crew managed to loose it ) and coped happily even with a medium format camera. I prefer a three-way head though as I find it easier to get level but that is really down to your style of photography and personal preference.

K.

Thanks chaps

I will try using it and an added bonus is the tripod and head they sent me is about £40 more expensive than the one I ordered

Lee

I am not sure about the 494, but I suspect it replaces the 484 which I have. I have K10D plus the tamron 70-300. It is ok, but not as rigid as the pan and tilt head (ie have experienced some very slight shake with it). I also experienced a bit of 'creep' when I had the camera in portrait mode - ie 'hanging' to one side on the ball joint - however that could be my error. I am a bit torn as the 484 is relatively light to carry around when on a long walk, but I imagine the 486 being heavier is a bit more substantial and rigid.
Hope that helps

Andy