I'm looking into buying my first tripod. I am trying to keep it in the $200-$250 range or so. The camera I'm using right now is panasonic dv852. Hopefully I will upgrade to a pdx10 sometime in the near future. This tripod doesn't necessarily need to last forever I suppose.

Will tripods work with just about any camera as long as it can support the weight.

I need a tripod now for the dv852 but I don't want to buy another one in a few monthes when I get a pdx10.

thanks.

Jake- In that price range, you will be looking at the Bogen 501 head, and some low end Manfrotto legs- If you go for the name. I did this, and have regretted it ever since. It is not very fluid, and the legs are very light and will sometimes twist with the panning.

If I were you, I would find a decent shop, even if it's an hour or so drive. Take your camera, and try out the tripods. Perhaps you will get a better deal with a Slick, or even a no name.

yeah, I'm sure I will have to try to find something in my area.

What about the libec mh20, or the bescor 650? I've been searching since I posted and noticed that there are quite a few complaints with the bogen 501 and some pretty good comments on the libec, but nothing on the bescor. On paper they seem similar if not the same except for the weight bearing spec.

Would either of these be worth a look. Can one find better in my price range.

The Libec has earned high marks from users on the forum. If you do a search, you find a great deal of praise. The Bogen also offers a good value.