Hi All, first real post, so thanks for the advise in advance.

I'm looking at purchasing the Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 Carbon Fibre along with the 498RC2.

I've chosen the 055 over the 190 for the little extra height and stability and the CF over Aluminium for the weight and material quality. I've read differing views on stability though, has anyone had experience with both CF and Aluminium, which would you suggest and why?

Open to comment on either piece of equipment.

I do a lot of walking with my camera gear in a backpack.

Cheers.