The best tripod/head etc for panos

[ChrisSearle]

I've decided to get a really good tripod and to hell with the cost ( within reason). I want a strong stable platform for my 5D3 one that's lightweight and can be packed in my check in luggage ( I fly A Lot) . I also want to get a head plus accessories that will enable me to mount at the nodal point for panos as well as general use. I guess I'll get an L plate as well.
There are so many options available! I'm thinking RRS but before I commit does anybody have any other suggestions?

[Scatterbrained]

Personally, this is the ballhead on my wishlist:http://acratech.net/pages.php?pageid=24

Although, if you want to do multi-row panos they've got that covered too....:http://acratech.net/product.php?productid=84

[Indecent Exposure]

That was like watching Kung-Fu Theater, but the dude speaks English. Nice dub track, Grasshopper.

On topic, RRS's MPR-CL II nodal slide paired with a PCL-1 panning clamp is a rock solid foundation for panos. And the system will expand to do multi-rows without wasting a piece. Built like a tank, silky smooth action, and it only costs an arm and a leg.

[Yno]

I don't know why everyone has to beat up on the Acratech videos. Well, maybe I do! But I would wager that a lot of other company presidents could not do as well, and he is very informative.

Anyway, I have two of the GP heads, one a GP-s on my Gitzo 1541T. I have used them both for single row panoramas and they work very well, without having to carry any other gear. I have also used the GP as a gimbal head, but only up to a 400 f5.6. I highly recommend them.

I am sure RRS is good, too, but we all have to make choices sometimes.

[tvphotog]

I use a Gitzo series 3 tripod with a Markins Q20 ballhead. I use the RRS lever release and an RRS nodal bar. This is a rock solid combination.

I have the Series 3 Systemic tripod, and swapped the standard head it comes with for a leveling base head, which works for panos and anything else.