I got a benro gimbal head to replace a manfrotto ball head that wasn't sufficiently stable for big lenses. not exactly "compact" or "unobtrusive", but it works really well and provides mobility in all axes smoothly. doesn't work with K-1 with battery grip attached, though, because the grip has the mounting hole offset in a way that results in inadequate side clearance.

cheapest such thing (new) at b&h a few minutes ago was about $70.

[MossyRocks]

I have a useless extra plate laying around somewhere because I forgot to sell it with the pan head.

I would be interested in it if you want to unload it.

[Kerrowdown]

My Favourite is the RRS BH-55 ball head

+1

[monochrome]

I would be interested in it if you want to unload it.

I’ll dig it up and PM you. It’s in a shoebox.

[TaoMaas]

I would be interested in it if you want to unload it.

As long as you're on the subject of quick release plates, here's one you might want to consider at some point. It's almost like an L-bracket in that it negates the twist when you need to turn your camera vertical.

Manfrotto 030ARCH-14 Architectural Quick Release 030ARCH-14 B&H

[MossyRocks]

I’ll dig it up and PM you. It’s in a shoebox.

Sounds good. I'm in no hurry but at least this way it will get put to use instead of collecting dust in a box.

[MossyRocks]

As long as you're on the subject of quick release plates, here's one you might want to consider at some point. It's almost like an L-bracket in that it negates the twist when you need to turn your camera vertical.

Manfrotto 030ARCH-14 Architectural Quick Release 030ARCH-14 B&H

That does look interesting too. I may have to pick one of those up to have for the rare time when it would come in handy for me.

[ZombieArmy]

I was about to recommend this very head. Used it for years until I switched to ball heads. The QR plate is very secure, but unusual - I don’t think many other heads use it. I have a useless extra plate laying around somewhere because I forgot to sell it with the pan head.

There are some real cheap examples on ebay without the QR plate if you wouldn't mind selling me that one

Edit: oops didn't read the conversation above.

The 3047 does seem to fit the bill in terms of functionality and price however. Thanks for the suggestions guys!

[MossyRocks]

Edit: oops didn't read the conversation above.

If you get the 3047 without a quick release plate I I would't be upset or anything if monochrome offered his to you instead. I'm just always on the lookout of gear that would be of use to me.