As far as tripods go, I personally like more than I need. Sturdy, no squeek, and stable as can be is IMPORTANT for any footage you even think might go to DVD/TV.

Fluidheads? A 3130 would work for a GL1/2, although it is NOT a fluidhead. It is a glorified panhead suitable for personal videoing with a small camera. It is nowhere near enough for an XL body camera.

Remote controllers.......the 523pro is the nicest, and most expensive one I have tried. You can get one for less. For me, the 523 is the easiest to use, but others will do the same thing for 100 bucks less.

IMO, the most important feature to get in a remote handle is the programmable zoom speed. Few things look worse than a really fast zoom, or pan back.