So I finally broke down and spend the money:
Bogen / Manfrotto | 055XPROB Tripod Legs (Black) with 488RC2 
The legs:
055XPROB Tripod Legs (Black)
Maximum Height
70.3" (178.5 cm)
Maximum Height w/o Column Extended
55.9" (142 cm)
Minimum Height
3.9" (10 cm)
Folded Length
24" (61 cm)
Load Capacity
15.4 lbs (7 kg)
Leg Sections
3
Leg Lock Type
Flip levers
Independent Leg Spread
Yes
Center Column Sections
1
Center Column Type
Rapid sliding
Center Brace
No
Spiked Feet
No
Head Type
None
Head Mount Thread Size
3/8"
Weight
5 lbs (2.268 kg)
And the ball head:
488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect
Maximum Camera Supported
Medium format, 35mm or Digital SLR camera system
Load Capacity
17.6 lb (8 kg)
Height
4.25" (10.8 cm)
Quick Release
Yes
Spirit Level
No
Tension Control
No
Tripod Mount Thread Size
3/8"-16
Weight
1.5 lb (670 g)