Good value video tripod/monopod/handheld stabliser?

[RichwiththeS2000]

Any suggestions, folks?

I've read good reviews on the Velbon DV-7000 tripod, but it's slightly out of budget.

I'd just like to be able to get some fluid pans with my new video camera for a low price! I don't really mind if its a trip/monopod or a handheld stabilizer style device, as long as it can pan smoothly.

[checkmate91]

Think you might struggle to get anything cheaper than that Velbon, I use a manfrotto 055 classic with a 701hdv head for my 7D, depends I guess on what size video camera you are using?

[peter tdci]

There is a basic Manfrotto monopod that might do the job for horizontal panning. It's the 560B-1 Fluid Video Monopod and it seems to retail for around £100. It has a fluid joint at the bottom of the stick to enable smooth movement.

It has a big brother (the 561B) that has a head to allow for better vertical panning, but this a quite a bit more expensive.

Disclaimer - I've only discovered this today while looking for ideas for myself. Ive got a Manfrotto tripod and a 501RC2 head, but find it awkward when doing 180 degree pans. A search for the monopod throws up some video review links which I plan to check out over the weekend.

[RichwiththeS2000]

Thanks

That Manfrotto 561BHDV-1 looks really good, expensive though! The 560B might be OK although it lacks the pan handle and vertical pan options.

I think I may just have to except I need to spend a few quid if I want decent results ;]