Gitzo GT1348 vs GT2542LS vs GT3530LS which one?

I have the chance to buy any one of the above. I have been able to handle the GT2542 in a shop and liked the feel of it. But i have read the 3 series are better if you have a choice between the 2. The GT1348 mountaineer is the cheapest, followed by the GT3530 then the 2542 (by about £40).

Has anybody had any experience of these and have a preference? I quite like the 2542 and 3530 because they are systematics and neither come with the centre columns. I will be using it for still life, landscape and panos so needs to be sturdy (maybe the 3530 would be better?)

I will be using a Mamiyaflex with paramender and ball head, and nodal slider, so the load isnt going to be massively heavy.

For that kind of load, either the 2 or 3 Series tripods would suffice. Heck, even, the GT 1348 may be good enough. But, IMO, of the options you listed, I'd opt for the 3 Series. I have a GT3532 Mountaineer.

A ballhead for panos?!

How are you going to measure the rotation angle or keep it horizontal? A 3 way head would be a more sensible choice.

 

I wouldn't call the Mamiyaflex with paramander and nodal slide a lightweight load either.