NAB2000: CineTech & more
My friend Karl Horn, of CineTech, owns what may be described as The Ultimate XL1 Handheld Rig. Except it's not truly handheld... the camera is mounted on Karl's HipCam Support System, which combines a waistbelt, monoshock, and shoulder support with dual handgrips.
Karl's swing-away matte box allows for fast lens changes (that's the Canon 14x manual lens in the photo). The stylish follow-focus system includes dual knobs on both sides of the camera, with easy-to-use rack-focus stops and (not shown) a mounting point for a AAA Mini-Maglite, so you can see your focus marks in the dark.
This view more clearly shows the shoulder support. This is an extremely impressive set-up. It's quite expensive, however... these accessories cost more than the XL1 itself. For more information, contact Karl Horn directly at CineTech (serious inquiries only, please).
This is the DynaPix wireless video transmitter, sandwiched between an Anton Bauer battery pack and battery mounting plate. It sends a composite video signal to an equally compact receiver. Although the signal is only composite video (limited by bandwidth), it's useful for directors to monitor a handheld camera operator's shot. I do not currently have technical specifications, contact info or price points for this unit, which is one of several makes of wireless video transmitters available on the market.
The Scuba rain slicker, if I remember correctly, is priced below $100. I do not currently have contact info for the manufacturer.
The Watchdog notes: Please be advised that I've tested none of the products on this page personally, and have not had business relations with any of the aforementioned companies. Proceed at your own risk... these images are meant only to give you an idea of what's available out there, and should not be construed in any way as a product endorsement. If you do contact a company based on what you see here, please tell them the XL1 Watchdog sent you (I could really use the reference). For information concerning Watchdog product reviews, manufacturers are invited to contact me directly at chris@dvinfo.net.
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Thrown together by Chris Hurd