Which Gitzo monopod and head

[ipacmm]

I have narrowed my monopod search down to these two monopods:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart&A=details&Q=&sku=475916&is=REG

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=Search&A=details&Q=&sku=170895&is=REG&addedTroughType=search


I want to buy the best monopod so I would do it once and not have to do it again. I have heard good reviews about the G1588 but the GM5540 looks to be new so I really haven't heard that much about it.

I was also wondering what type of head you think I should buy, I was looking at the RSS ballheads or the Bogen 486RC2, do you think the RSS is worth the price difference or overkill?

Thanks.

[René Damkot]

No idea about the 'pods.
I think that the main difference between the Manfrotto and RRS is that the latter allows a 'friction' setting, which would be nice on a tripod, but not that much use on a monopod.
I'd save some money, and get the 486 or a swivel head.

[foxbat]

Go for the GM5540. The new 6x system replaces the earlier models and they're worth it for the new leg locks alone.

[iacas]

Go for the GM5540. The new 6x system replaces the earlier models and they're worth it for the new leg locks alone.

I agree. I just got my GM5540, a 2007 model, and it's superb. Now I just have to find a thicker, more padded cushion for the top and I'll be set.

I was also wondering what type of head you think I should buy, I was looking at the RSS ballheads or the Bogen 486RC2, do you think the RSS is worth the price difference or overkill?

RRS doesn't recommend using a ballhead on monopods. Too much going on. Rather, they suggest this: http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/tutorials/monopods/index.html . I've followed their suggestions and am happy with my monopod solution.

[JohnJ80]

I have narrowed my monopod search down to these two monopods:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart&A=details&Q=&sku=475916&is=REG

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=Search&A=details&Q=&sku=170895&is=REG&addedTroughType=search


I want to buy the best monopod so I would do it once and not have to do it again. I have heard good reviews about the G1588 but the GM5540 looks to be new so I really haven't heard that much about it.

I was also wondering what type of head you think I should buy, I was looking at the RSS ballheads or the Bogen 486RC2, do you think the RSS is worth the price difference or overkill?

Thanks.

of the two, go for the 5540. The 6X and ALR are worth it alone.

Do note this, the new 6X monopod has almost twice the load rating of the 1588. A comparable load for the 1588 can be had in the 2540 which weighs less than a lb but still has the 26lb load rating. Since Gitzo is so conservative in their load ratings, I think you can take that one to the bank.

What are you shooting that you think you need a head?

J