So, after disassembling my current tripod (a Propod style, old and heavy), I'm looking towards upgrading the head. After hearing the numerous rave reviews about the RRS BH-55, I thought I would look at Real Right Stuff's gear.
So, the camera system in question is a Nikon D40x, with the current heaviest lens being the 55-200mm VR, weighing in around 335 grams. There is no 70-200 f/2.8 in my near (next 5 years) future. Likely future lenses will be a wide angle and maybe another prime.
As to the topic at hand, the gear I'm looking at is:
RRS BH-25 ball head with their B2mAS clamp system. This is not the quick release clamp, rather the screw based on. This was done with pricepoint in mind. Those that have used both the screw and quick release, what are your thoughts on this?
Multi-camera plate for Nikon D40/D40x. This is considered as a result of the pricepoint, I'm thinking that the L-plate will not receive enough usage to warrant the extra $70. Thoughts? I realize that for a portrait shot, I would have to put the camera over, potentially destabilizing the tripod and having the recompose the shot.
Total cost for all this is $200 American dollars. This is before shipping to Canada.
What are your thoughts on this system? Will it last for many years, and will the ballhead, with it's pull out adjustment only, suffice for most shots? At this moment in time I'm shooting landscapes, but that could change with time. Would it be worth the extra $130 and step up to the BH-30 or even the BH-40?
In addition, is there Canadian retailers for RRS gear or is it strictly available from their website? My research is by no means complete, as I'm visiting local camera stores for further opinions tomorrow morning. If you have suggestions, I welcome them.
Thanks.