If you keep the cost under $700, then you are keeping the heavier items as your only options. I use a Gitzo G1325 Carbon Fiber tripod with a Markins Q20 ballhead. I add a Wimberly Sidekick when I want a gimble head. The Markins doesn't have any of the slippage problems with the Sidekick that Artie has mentioned using other heads. My tripod & ballhead weigh 5.75 lbs. which is less than my previous tripod without a head. If you skimp on the tripod, you won't be as happy with it and will not use it as often. You should read this article by Thom Hogan .