I looked for something that would be easy, exactly fixed and stable. The spoke for a carbon tripod, but also can be expensive very easily. Actually I wanted to buy myself tripod with standard center column of a tripod Induro (Alloy 6 M AT Series 2 AT 214) or a Giotto carbon. Then I looked at the commercially more accurate. The Induro's great processed, but no carbon - and rel. difficult. If you want to take it often a small venture. On top of that a ball head or 3-way pan head of Induro not exactly cheap. Who can afford it, of course, choose a Induro carbon! The Giotto is supposed to be good, in the trade was not in range and should have an aluminum standard center column. The head should also be good.
Then I made up my mind that Vanguard Alta 263AT. Super processing and legs covered with foam. The center column can be completely extended and then eye folds horizontal at any angle. So you can go anywhere - even from above for Macro Photography. His legs are adjustable at any angle so extremely.
The part is remarkably light - and stable. Standard 3-way pan head is also available, but I opted for a proven Neiger of Manfrotto (804RC2 3-way pan head with removable disk). This is a rel. Neiger normal at a good price, adjusted well and has great, thick and soft handles. Not quite like the top echelon of Induro but moving the same time in areas that are three or four times as expensive. Did it then immediately taken from the merchants.