I am looking to bite the bullet and spend a little $$$ on a "decent" tripod/head combo. I have access to a Sony DSR-300, which would normally weigh in at about 15 pounds and occasionally up to 25 pounds if completely loaded with accessories I may get in a studio configuration.

I have been looking at the Vinten Vision 6, Sachtler DV8 & DV8/100, and the Manfrotto 519 heads. They all seem to fit the weight class I am looking at.

I was wondering if anyone had thoughts either way about these particular heads, and if there were any others I might have overlooked. Also, should I stick to legs made by the same manufacturer of a particular head or are there legs that I should consider that would work universally? I will add that I will probably pass on the carbon fiber option and stick to aluminum, based on my needs.

Thanks in advance!

I totally love the Cartoni Focus head. Very adjustable balance (no spring replacement), smooth, and stable.

At those weights I'd be inclined to go for the Video range rather than the Sachtler DV range. 25lbs is a well kitted Digibeta camera weight.