[iconoclast]

seab3, hello.

I use a 055XProb tripod and a 410 head; both by manfrotto.

I like macro work so I chose a gear head. it allows you to incrementally shift the head on 3 axis. this particular one allows you to unlock the gear and turn it, not exactly paning like a pan-tilt but not so bad either when doing multiple shots for panoramic.
there are no open gears so walking through nature isnt an issue.
it's heavy and solid; it'll support a lot; esp since one often uses various focus rails with it.
I also find it very useful for landscape shots. I can adjust it little by little so that framing it just right in camera is not an issue.

I use the RC4 plates that are integrated into the head. some people have difficulty with this plate saying its difficult to unlatch but once you have it oriented correctly its very easy to apply the force needed. I bought an extra base and plate to attach to my focus rail setup and leave a plate on my camera at all times.

when discussing heads you really have to discuss the legs too. you can't put a heavy duty head on flimsy legs. I chose the 055XProb legs because they will last a long time, are stable and heavy (but not too heavy for me), pretty cheap (good bang for your buck here I think. aluminum is cheaper than fiberglass), and I got the larger one since I'm on the taller end. Also this tripods center column can adjust horizontally and I was stoked for the weird angles I could get for macro. (It takes some getting used to). Mind you they have the same model without the horizontal column. I prefer a non geared column due to wear and the time it takes to crank. Also this tripod has independent legs. From my research these are about the cheapest good quality, rugged legs you can get that aren't toys.

I think a head decision is really based on what you like to shoot, plenty of people rack up many tripods and heads based upon different needs.