David,
sounds like you are looking for a full size tripod rather than for a lightweight hiking/traveling tripod?
Some of the research Brant has done probably still applies: Gitzo legs are great, heads are better from Markins, Arcatech and others. RRS is great all around. Ball diameter should be 38mm or more

Carbon is said to dampen vibrations better than aluminum, so it is not only about the weight.

What height are you looking for? RRS has a nice guide: http://reallyrightstuff.com/mmrrs/Im...ImageGrid.html
Always look at the height with the center column not extended.
I personally am happy with 58'' height, and I'm 6'2'' or 6'3''. I found Sirui (M3004 or M-3204 for carbon) to be a good alternative when on a budget - but I have to admit I cannot compare to any of the others, so I don't know how much I'm missing. It folds down to about 20''