I've read other posts on this topic but the answers didn't seem to help...

I’m in the market for a good TRIPOD for my Sony-HDR-FX1 and Beachtek DXA-FX Audio Adapter. I’m looking for very fluid motion. This tripod will be used outdoors a lot for my narrative film in different weather so I’m looking for something pretty sturdy!

But, I don’t have a lot of money and $450.00 is my limit! I’d prefer to spend less but I really don’t know what to buy or to expect. Am I being unrealistic at that budget limit? Should I buy different parts from different companies? Where to buy and what to get? It’s all so confusing!

For the size of your cam and your needs at about 450 bucks, try looking at the bogen/manfrotto 503 head. Then stick the sticks you can afford under that head. At least that way you will get the value where it's needed: Slick smooth pans and tilts.

Jimmy - I'm in the same boat as you. I've been shooting on a DSR300 for the last 5 years and recently picked up a Z1 and need a tripod for it
I have bogen 3046 legs with a 516 head for the 300 but the spring is to tense to handle the z1 and kicks back on the tilt bigtime.

I am stuck because I need the "center geared column" on the 3046 badly and no other tripod really provides that except for a few Gitzos and some really high end pods out of my budget.

I am probably just going to get another 3046 with a "503" head. I've seen that combo before - and its a good cost effective and quality solution. The two units are not half balls - just flat.

This is about $474 - and a pretty solid setup.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart&A=details&Q=&sku=309002&is=REG

You other option is to go to a ball head/legs

You could go with a 3460 legs and a 503 head for about $459.00
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=359569&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

Or the 3181 with 503 head for about $494.00
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=369369&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

Just a few thoughts :) I am actually finding that getting the right tripod is more of a pain then the actual camera. At least with the camera you have like 3 choices - tripods - thousands. :(

Paul

I'm saving up for a Vinten Vision 3. It's expensive but so worth it.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=234288&is=REG&addedTroughType=search