I did not understand this thread.
1) A Manfrotto 190 and 055 are quite different. As are Manfrotto 057 or 535. Where the 190 is a starter (I would not put my 500 or 600mm on it), the 055 is for wildlife, portable + sturdy but not only.
2) Gitzo is good, but you probably also need to go into the 4 or 5 series. RRS might be better, but that is Rolls Royce level, I want it, but I do not want to spend the money.
3) There are alternatives in the other brands, the important is:
- Carbon fibre (mainly for vibration reduction)
- Large legs (stability)
- For me no centre column (issue with Manfrotto) = no monopod at the end
- light to carry
- can carry more (double) of what you want to put on it (extra stable)
- brings your gear on the right height for you
I did some research for myself here:
http://nikonites.com/other-photography-equipment/32537-tripod-truth-myth.html#axzz3rYP5bgXX