My situation:
I am looking to get a new tripod, as the current tripod is not satisfactory (old n' loose). I am looking into Berlebach tripods, for view camera use (currently 4x5, mostly, with the anticipation of much larger cameras). However, I am concerned with two things, largely: Firest, eye-level or near-eye-level shooting (although tripods without the centre column are more stable, I have never needed more stability with my current centre column tripod, and am rarely in a shooting situation which would require much stability to begin with). Second, portability.
So, on to my question: The Berlebach 1022 model would give a shorter transportation length, lower weight, higher load capacity. The maximum height, however, is low. Would there be any large (or small) issues with using a longer center column? I realize the obvious, such as, less stability with more column height. I merely wish to have that capability.
Mostly, I'm looking for anything REALLY obvious I may have missed, as I'm new to this tripod-buying business! Suggestions in general, too, are quite welcome. If there are any other solutions, I'd be glad to know.