I bump this thread in order to get more opinions and recommendation for a tripod/head combo for the ATS 65 in order to navigate the sea of infinite number of options of tripods and heads.
I'm trying to narrow it down to actual specs, like the following.
Weight: the scope weights 1370 g. My previous scope (a MM3 ED 60) was a hair under 1 kg and my current tripod at 1,2 was ok, but it is clearly not enough for the heavier, longer and more capable ATS. So I'm thingking of something in the region of 1,5 - 1,6 kg. That should provide a more stable stand to begin with, right?
Material: Given the example above (a 1,6 kg tripod). Then should I guess that a 1,6 kg of carbon fiber tripod is bigger/more-stable than a 1,6 kg tripod of aluminium? I'm just speculating, since I've never used a carbon fiber tripod. Any reason to have or not to have one above the other?
Number of sections: my current tripod is a small travel one, which is really convenient because it takes no space, but it has 5 sections (4 locks per leg) which I think not only makes it more flimsy but also a bit of a pain to set up. I guess the lesser number of sections, the stronger the body, but also longer when folded. I've seen that many 3 section (2 locks) tripods measure a respectable 60+ cm, which is more than my backpack can hold (so maybe I should get used to carry it outside the backpack; I kind of like the fact that, when not in use, no one knows that in my little backpack there is a really capable scope).
Head: when it comes to the head again several considerations come to mind. First is the weight and bulk. One of the reasons to choose a 65 mm scope is the fact that it's compact and relatively light, so I guess that has to also be reflected in the head. I was very interested in the Manfrotto 128 RC, given the fact that you don't need a plate for the Swaro scope, because it fits directly (I find that really attractive: less pieces, less problems, less weight), and also it seems quite inexpensive and easy to get (even second hand), but I've just discovered that it weights around 1 kg (wow, that's the weight of my Opticron MM3). So I'm kind of confused now. So the scope and tripod try to shave some really appreciated grams... to end up with a head that weights almost like the scope itself? The MVH500 comes a little lighter at 900, and the Sirui VA 5 is even lighter at 600 g.
So, any other brands, models, previous experiences, regrets, comments are more than welcome. Thanks!