Tripod

I posted this on the beginners forum but decided to ask the "experts" as well.

I posted a question on the 7D board about trying to get a tripod setup for about $100 and after reading the responses and reading Kelby's volume books, I've decided to bite the bullet, but wanted your feedback first.

The combination I've chosen is:

Manfrotto 055XPROB (over the 190XPROB). I'm 6'3" so that helped with my decision.

Manfrotto 322RC2 ball head with RC2 Rapid connector plate

So, I went from $100 to just under $300.

I mainly shoot portraits and landscapes and I"m an aspiring amateur hoping to get better shots.

Good combination? Would this be money well spent?

Thanks.