I wanted one too... It's a very nice tripod. But I settled for a 55 pro series instead. For me, a little extra convenience wasn't worth 2x the price, and I'm going to be beating it up outdoors.
I have one - along with a couple of their Neotec monopods.
I also have several other monopods and tripods for when we need several to handle large events - but the Neotech models are the ones that everybody grabs first. Then, once they use them for a while - they end up buying one for themselves.
Yes, the Neotec tripod is more expensive, but there is simple no faster way to extend the legs than just pulling (they lock automatically). Then, pressing ONE button per leg, you can collapse the leg (letting go locks it again) - or by pressing all three buttons and pushing down, the whole tripod minimizes.
It can lay completely flat very quickly by taking off the extension, or the extension can be mounted sideways or upside down. It's a VERY versitile tripod (as many expensive ones are), but this one does it so much faster and easier than any other one out there.
Granted, if you don't need this ease and speedy flexibility, then by all means get a cheaper one. But if you see the need for simplicity and efficiency, then the extra price is worth it IMO to save time on fumbling with gear to get the shots.
I can only comment on the Neo-Tec monopod, which I really like. The fast deployment action is very useful. The one-handed collapse action is especially good when working with a heavy rig in tight quarters. For me, the most negative aspect of teh Neo-Tec is it's a lot longer when closed than many other products. So, I use the Neo-Tec when I'm traveling by car, and I use a Feisol CM-1471 Rapid when traveling by airplane or foot. I use a 676B Digi monopod when travelling light. I prefer the Neo-Tec action over the Feisol (which is similar to Gitzo, which I have in tripod), but the Feisol collapsed length fits in my suitcase, while the Neo-Tec does not (55cm vs. 74cm).
