RRS BH-55 that much better than Bogen 488 RC4?

I'm comparing ball heads, and there are a number of fans here of the Bogen 488 RC2 and RC4. Here and elsewhere, I also see high praise for the RRS BH-55. To configure an RRS BH-55 LR with the several plates I might need looks to be about $500 more than the RC4. Can anyone explain what I'd be getting with the BH-55 that might justify the additional cost? I'd be especially interested to hear from anyone who has seen them side by side. Thanks.

That's like comparing Apples to gumdrops. It makes no sense.

The RRS stuff uses the Arca Swiss plate and clamp system which is many times better overall than the manfrotto rc2 and rc4 systems - which are proprietary to manfrotto. you have to use their ballheads, clamps and plates.

There are numerous differences - like independent panning base, like friction control etc...

J.

I say buy one of each and see for yourself.

I have the Bogen 488RC2 and I removed the RC2 plate and added the RRS plate. Much better now. I love Bogen products, but like the RRS plates and brackets better, so now, as I see it, I have the best of both.