I'm looking for a geared head to replace my (stolen) Cube, but, before pulling the trigger on another Cube, thought I'd search around and see if any alternatives had been released since I bought my previous Cube.
Now, the Cube is a fantastic piece of gear, but, nevertheless, has a few shortcomings. Firstly, the clamp isn't replaceable on the current model - I'd much prefer to use a RRS lever clamp, but, instead, am stuck with Arca-Swiss's substandard flip-lock clamp since. (If anyone's found a good, reliable way to replace the Cube's clamp, let me know). Secondly, it's heavy when hiking. Thirdly, the gears are, perhaps, a bit vulnerable to damage from sand and dust, being exposed as they are.
I looked at the D4, but it looks like it might have more scope for vibration or instability when using long lenses. But then I saw the KPS T5 - it's around a third lighter than the Cube, can take a RRS clamp and gets good reviews. As a bonus, it also works as a ballhead for when that kind of thing is more convenient (e.g. wildlife).
But what is it like stability-wise compared to the Cube? I need a head that can hold long and heavy lenses (at least 100-400 f/4.5-5.6 @ 400mm, preferably even 200-400 f/4) perfectly still for long exposures (still enough for multiple exposures for image blending or pixel shift) - any head which can't do that is out. It also needs to have independently-adjustable axes with fine control and no 'droop', hence the need for a geared head. At the same time, the massive load-bearing capacity of the Cube may be overkill.
Anyone here tried both first-hand? I've read the reviews, but am not prepared to pull the trigger on it without direct comparisons, when there's a tried-and-true solution available.