An AFFORDABLE Workhorse Video Tripod || Manfrotto 290 Xtra 128RC Review

Are you looking for an affordable workhorse tripod that is ideal for videography?  I picked up the Manfrotto 290 Xtra legs and 128RC fluid head tripod combo (MK290XTA3-2WUS) a little over a year ago, when it was time to upgrade to a setup that could accommodate my mirrorless cameras (e.g. Sony a7S III, a7 III), larger lenses like a 70-200 f/2.8 telephoto, and more built up camera rigs.  In this case, I really needed something that could deliver smooth pans and tilts, while being rock solid and within an affordable price range at just a little over $200 US.

In this review, I'll discuss many of the key specs of the tripod, along with some of its various quirks and lesser-known features.  I'll also mention my experience using it within the past year, and what gigs and scenarios it's most commonly served me well in.  Finally, I'll give my take on the overall tripod, and if I'd recommend it or not.

Overall, if you're looking for a tripod that is principally designed to accommodate video shooting on DSLR and mirrorless cameras, I would definitely add this tripod to your shortlist of models to consider.  This tends to be a somewhat lesser-known model in Manfrotto's family of tripods, but given its features and what it delivers for the price should not be overlooked.

Manfrotto 290 Xtra 128RC (Legs and Fluid Head Combo): https://amzn.to/3o8bPpV
Manfrotto 290 Xtra (Legs Only): https://amzn.to/3gomSah
Manfrotto 128RC (Fluid Head Only): https://amzn.to/3AHSRLB

0:00 - Intro, and why I purchased this tripod
0:53 - Tripod main features and specs
2:31 - My experience using it
2:57 - Quirks and lesser-known features
4:08 - My recommendation
4:44 - Conclusion

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My Current Kit:
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Cameras & Lenses:
Sony a7S III: https://amzn.to/3Gd87kK
Sony a7 IV: https://amzn.to/3g3Ipoq
Sony a7 III: https://amzn.to/3GcEX5x
Sony 20mm f/1.8 G: https://amzn.to/3AE7pMt
Sony Zeiss Sonnar 55mm f/1.8: https://amzn.to/3r6Lo5M
Sony 24-70 f/2.8 GM: https://amzn.to/3HfLIoy
Sony 70-200 f/2.8 GM: https://amzn.to/3He70Ts

Audio:
Rode VideoMic NTG: https://amzn.to/3AJwTrW
Tascam DR-10L: https://amzn.to/3AIRA7l
Zoom H6: https://amzn.to/32HCgep

Lighting:
Aputure LS 60x: https://amzn.to/3Gc04og
Aputure Amaran P60c: https://amzn.to/3ob7qm6
Aputure Amaran AL-F7: https://amzn.to/3g3IzMy
Aputure MC: https://amzn.to/34l8DzS

Tripod/Monopod:
Manfrotto 290 Xtra 128RC: https://amzn.to/3o8bPpV
iFootage Cobra C180-II: https://amzn.to/3r8kfPY

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