Hi, you've probably gone ahead and gotten something but I'll throw in my 2¢.

The tilt pan head is really no different than a ball head in operation - some folks prefer the way it works. I've got an older Bogen (Manfrotto) one, and still use it from time to time. Some Manfrotto ball heads are pretty "meh", and I could see your not liking ball heads if you've got one of these. I didn't like ball heads either (and have a Manfrotto) until I got a decent ball head and it was an epiphany.

If you're not looking at a rail for Macro work, or would like something to pair a rail to in the future, the Manfrotto 410 is an excellent unit. Very well built and accurate. IMHO Manfrotto seems to have "fiddly" consumer stuff (with too much plastic sometimes), and then some really high end equipment - this would be the latter. If you can swing it - this would be something you'll use for many years to come.