Comments about Sony VCT-R640:

I've had this tripod for a few years. For what I've paid for, I think I got a great product. The tripod is lightweight and sturdy enough for occasional uses with the big video cameras (e.g. HDR-FX7). I use this with my tiny Cybershot cameras, so this product in lots of ways is overkill. One gripe I have with this product is that the center beam part is made of plastic that seems to break with relative easy. I've attached a photo showing the problem area. With that exception, the bubble tool helps me level the tripod perfectly. The tripod can extend pretty tall, and it is lightweight where I take it with me on most of my travels. The legs are made of aluminum so they last.

Comments about Sony VCT-R640:

i recently purchased this tripod and so far thoroughly impressed. considering i did not want to spend hundreds of dollars on a tripod, this tripod has all the bells and whistles for a reasonable price. yes the more expensive ones will be even more durable and more features, but for the money, and for what i want to do, it is perfect. unfolding it is a cinch, take out the legs, and there is a knob to adjust every position or angle you want to move the head in. my hdr sr12 and trv138 fit snugly on the removable head, which locks in firmly, and as long as you screwed your camera in tight enough, no worries about it falling off.
overall, if your on a budget and want a reliable tripod, this is the way to go. The cheaper sony tripod just so you know is considerably shorter, so look at the height numbers to make your choice. the only thing that would make this better is if it had a small bag that once folded up it could be placed in.