I'm looking for a tripod system with adjustable pan and tilt drag. Can you recommend one, or two, or three?

I come from the still world, so I started with a Manfrotto 055X tripod (about $140 at B&H), and later added a Manfrotto 502HD head ($170 at B&H). I'm very happy with the combo. B&H has a kit, sticks and head and carrying case, for $330. I found the head used, but barely, on eBay for a bit less.

Disclaimer: I don't work for B&H or Manfrotto!

It would help to know what you plan to mount on said tripod and how you intend to use it. Mostly locked off, attaching slider, etc.

I'm going to use the tripod with a camcorder, a Canon HF-G10 to be precise (It's the same as the XA10).

Weight wise, since I'm going to be attaching an XLR adapter and a portable audio recorder, the weight will most likely add up to about 4 lbs.

I would like to be able to do a lot of pans and some tilts.

I had a Manfrotto 501 head until a couple of years ago. It was OK, but I'd like to have something that is less bulky, but provides more precise control.

Has anyone had any experience with Dracast tripods? They appear to be well-built, but reviews are scant online.

I recently picked up a Manfrotto flat base 502HD head to go on my 3221WN sticks, and am pretty happy with this compromise setup. Leveling the thing without a proper ball blows, but they have an adapter that can be added to the head in the future when I get a proper set of video sticks.

The head itself is insanely large, but pans and tilts are decent enough for a head that's well under $200.

Have you looked at the fancier 270a I think it will be right up your street and price.