Travel tripod: Cullmann Magic 2 vs. Gitzo 1540 vs. Gitzo 1550

[SunTsu]

Hello. I'm wondering if anyone has had a chance to compare the three of these tripods. I'd like a lightweight tripod to take on trips that will be enough to just hold a 5D and 24-105mm. I've tried to find different reviews on each and there is scarce info. The Cullmann doesn't have a rated weight load, but the 1540 seems to have a higher weight load limit (9.8lbs) than the 1550.

The price difference between the Cullmann and the Gitzo tripods is huge. I'm just not sure it's worth the difference. The Gitzo Travellers are almost the same price as their 3*** series!

If anyone has used these tripods, I'd be interested in hearing about your experience(s). Thanks.

[JohnWolf]

Sorry, SunTsu, I can't speak to the Cullman, but I got the 1540 for a recent trip to Japan. It's wonderful! Solid and perfect weight. I always used Manfrotto, thinking I liked their style of leg clamps better, but now that I've used the Gitzo, I'm a convert. I use it with a Leica M8 system, so weight is not an issue. But it's weight rating is plenty adequate for the combo you mention.

If you get the Gitzo, check out the ProMaster tripod cases. I got one that's perfect for this tripod with a head mounted. It straps right onto my Lowepro backpack, and I can even remove and replace the tripod without removing the case. The case also has a shoulder strap.

I've avioded Gitzo for years because of the price, but I now think they're worth the cost. It's an important piece of gear that you'll own forever.

[SunTsu]

Thanks for the info, JohnWolf. I'm still struggling with buying a tripod just for travel, but I think I might have to bite the bullet. If you don't mind, I'm still wondering:
1) Why did you choose the 1540 over the 1550?
2) What head are you using with the 1540? I am hoping to use the ArcaSwiss Z1 for both the 3540 and the 1540 so I don't have to buy two heads.

As for the ProMaster cases, can you please share where you bought yours from?