I only have the 38CL which is the longer leg section version.
The 38CL on level ground puts the camera at eyelevel for me at 6ft 2 with out having to raise the centre column. I have removed the centre column and replaced with the stubby column that comes with the camera as it shaves 6oz off
An occasional photo companion has the 48 which we compared side by side when he first got it hence I know the top is slightly larger.
For me the 48 is too heavy and bulky for long carrying - i dont carry it strapped to a bag - and I do not find I need the 7.5ft plus hieght of the 48