I have the sony hdr-hc9. Can someone recommend me a good fluid tripod head for around $150. B&H has the 3130 and legs for around $170 I believe. Is this a good setup? Thanks

It would be a good idea for you to try it out. You get what you pay for (more or less) with tripods, so you need to find a price/performance level that fits your needs. I'm sure it will support your camera, but only you can decide if its durability and the smoothness of it's movements are good enough for you.

Best wishes,
Peter
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http://www.parkfilms.com

I am using the Velbon DV-7000 Video Tripod with 2-Way Fluid Head- Mfr# DV7000 $110.

It's fairly large and heavy, but does a great job.

B&H: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/366741-REG/Velbon_DV7000_DV_7000_Tripod_with_2_Way.html

Hello
I found something for you

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=EjLsdUcWJY8

there was also a better review by izzyvideo but I cannot find it anymore.

i use the Sony VCT870RM Tripod w/Remote

http://www.google.com/products?client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&channel=s&hl=en&q=Sony+VCT870RM+Tripod+w/Remote&um=1&ie=UTF-8

light weight, but i use a sand bag (bleachers, sport)

the only thing i do not like is the fact, that the the pan handle is not adjustable for up/ down.
besides that. it's a good tripod for me.

Thanks you all! I just found out that my uncle has a fluid head that he is going to let me use, so im in good shape for now.

I have the sony hdr-hc9. Can someone recommend me a good fluid tripod head for around $150. B&H has the 3130 and legs for around $170 I believe. Is this a good setup? Thanks

I bought a Bogen 3130 many years ago and completely rebuilt it for better performance. I removed the main pivot shaft, re-bored it and put one about twice as big in diameter in its place. I fitted it with Bogen's dual-arm kit and replaced the sticky goop they use for the so-called fluid action, with some waterproof marine grease, that allows for much smoother and easier panning. I put on a heavier tilt-locking lever and in the end, got a very good tripod for a total cost of about $120. (U.S.). I was able to use it quite nicely with a full-sized Beta camcorder (17 lbs.) and about 10 more lbs. of monitors, mikes and extra battery. With an HC9, it would support it easily, but without the removal of the standard lubricant as I described, it wouldn't give very smooth panning.