probably true. The design of the Berlebachs is very basic and simple. But that doesn't affect the performance.I suspect that the Ries falls into the same camp. It is indisputably superior in engineering and componentry but I doubt it will do a better job in the field.
Too, the leg locking mechanism with screws of the Ries adds to the weight. The Berlebachs use a simple rotating wheel so that you can lock the legs at regular angle, a wider angle (to bring the camera to a lower position) or to unlock the legs completely if desired.