Need a good CF tripod $550 budget - Yes Ive searched.

Well I've done a bit of searching, but can not find what I am looking for.

I need a good tripod that is light and sturdy... (i know it wont be cheep ~the pick 2 rule~)

I currently use a Manafrotto 055xprob with 386RC2 Head. I want somthing lighter and more compact.

I'd like a tripod w/o a center column, as I often shoot low to the ground. and think it will be more sturdy w/o it.
Also I dont like tripods that fold over the center column.

Tripods I am looking at are:

FEISOL Tournament Tripod CT-3442

FEISOL Traveler Tripod CT-3441S

Gitzo 1 or 2 series tell me whats good.

Ballheads???
Not really sure, any recomendations for somthing light.
FEISOL CB-50DC Ballhead with QP-144750 Release Plate could work?

I shoot a Nikon D700 w/ grip and a 17-35mm. I do have a 70-200mm that I will probably never use on this tripod, but would like to be able to if I had to.

Thanks,

Joe

Well if you don't want centre column, why is the 3441S on the list? The 3442 should suit your needs just fine. I've used my 3441T for a while now, and its performed outstandingly. Its been soaked in salt water, used in sand, on rocks, on ice, fell into a river, and is still performing like it was brand new. The only differences between my 3441T and the 3442, are the spider which is bigger and the centre column which is absent on the 3442. For around the same price (a bit more actually) you're looking at the Gitzo 1542 I believe, not sure what other options they have in that price range, but I've played with a 1542, and didn't like it. The quality was superb, but the tripod itself was puny, and the legs too spindly and they bent very easily.

I've done just a little less torture to my Feisol 3441T than has Sirrith above, and agree it's a fantastic tripod. Please take a look at this review.

I think most travel sticks will have a center column, and you can't replace this one with a solid spider. But if you want sticks that won't fail, look at the Feisols. B&H and Adorama now sell them, which is a kudo to their quality.