Would you be interested in a massively strong tripod for @ $200?

[sk66]

I have an idea for a 3 piece "conversion kit" that would convert a transit tripod into a massively strong photography tripod.
The transit tripods can be purchased for $150 and less new ($50 used), the conversion kit should be able to be sold for < $100.
A converted transit tripod would be at least equal to a $800 tripod in stiffness, but heavier (@ 10# vs 6#).
The conversion kit would be high quality..Aircraft grade aluminum and stainless steel...an advanced DIY kit.

It's an idea I came up with and I'm trying to decide if I should pursue it.."market research". I've patented/marketed/sold a few designs before so I know what is involved.

I believe this would be a great way to get a VERY capable tripod for cheap (and with some compromises..size/weight). I believe this would be a great option for those on a budget or needing the maximum support (heavy long lenses/astro photography etc).

I realize this might be more of a "gear post", but I need the maximum feedback in order to decide if I should pursue it further.

BTW, how do you create a poll now?

You can get a pretty nice carbon-fiber tripod for that price, including a ball-head. I actually snagged my tripod at Best Buy for only $100 (clearance).

I think for most hobbyists, they usually get the cheapest thing they can buy. If they get more serious, they'll probably get a Manfrotto or other reputable brand.

I think you're getting into that middle area where you won't have the lowest price or the best quality...which is usually where ideas go to die.

[sk66]

Noted.
However, you can not buy a tripod that can support 30# rock steady in high wind for anywhere near that price.
A converted transit can. Plus, they are "tall" without column and can be set reasonably short.
My CF tripod cost >$350 without head, and is somewhat lacking (I've got 12# lenses in my kit)
I agree hobbiest often buy cheap....and it's a wate of money. At least this will always be "up to the task", although maybe not "ideal".

The reason I came up with this idea is I've found myself in a position of needing a set of $800+ legs...and I'm cheap....it is still just a hobby for me.

[FDCPR]

I think your idea is sound I just don't know how many would be interested. It would be limited to certain photography groups, the long glass folks. The biggest drawback is the weight and maybe how much the transit tripod would actually collapse. I guess maybe fifteen years ago I picked up complete transit set at an auction then adapted the tripod to work with my 35mm and long glass. I will say that I don't think I've ever had a more stable system, but the weight was such it was only usable in areas you could drive directly to the location. Now I would hope these tripods have improved since my experience, but they are still heavy.

[sk66]

Originally Posted by FDCPR

I think your idea is sound I just don't know how many would be interested. It would be limited to certain photography groups, the long glass folks. The biggest drawback is the weight and maybe how much the transit tripod would actually collapse. I guess maybe fifteen years ago I picked up complete transit set at an auction then adapted the tripod to work with my 35mm and long glass. I will say that I don't think I've ever had a more stable system, but the weight was such it was only usable in areas you could drive directly to the location. Now I would hope these tripods have improved since my experience, but they are still heavy.

They've definitely improved in the last 15 years.
I am hoping it would also appeal for those on a limited budget but wanting stability (something you definitely sacrifice with cheap tripods) and willing to compromise on weight rather than strength.

Sorry, I'm not trying to be negative, but as a business owner and recent MBA grad, I don't think your idea will go to far. I'm not saying it's a bad product, but good products don't always sell well.

You're trying to market a heavy, stable tripod for $200. Is there a market for that? What is your competition? Are you going to compete on price or be a differentiator (noticably different from your competitors)? Will customers chose stability in exchange for weight? Who is my target customer?

I think your product falls into that Neverland of not being a differentiator (your customer will not percieve a difference between your tripod and another of similar price) and not being the lowest price. Think of the mp3 player market...Apple is a differentiator, so it does well. Creative and Samsung are low cost, so they do okay. The MS Zune tried to get in the market, and wasn't low cost or different enough, so it did crappy. Don't be a Zune.

[sk66]

It's fine to be "negative" in this regard...it is "market research". I also own a business (my third actually) I was self employed for well over a decade (not now, it's a "side business").

Heavy is a relative term. A modern transit tripod weighs @10# . A stiff level 3-5 tripod (less sturdy but more compact and a touch lighter) weighs is the 6-9# range (CF/AL) so no, not terribly heavy for the support, but WAY overkill for someone with a D50 and kit lens. BUT, it will never be inadequate...and I think that is a selling point. You CAN buy a cheaper/as cheap setup...but you may soon find it "useless".

10# tripod + 12# lens and 3# body is not "convenient"....

One thing almost everyone will do is buy a cheap tripod/head combination and "upgrade" 2-3 times.....With this the next purchase would be "downgrade" for weight/convenience. A comparatively supportive tripod is going to cost $700-1200. A HUGE cost savings, but with some sacrifice ( a few pounds and size).

I don't think it's lost in the middle.....but then again maybe it is, based upon lack of feedback....But I will be doing at least one, for me. Then again, my opinion doesn't really matter when it comes to marketing something.