I'm wondering how satisfied people are who've bought either the dm or vf shoulder mounts? I know there was discussion in this thread EX-3/Tripod base Plate--DM Plate vs.VFGagets - The Digital Video Information Network (http://www.dvinfo.net//conf/showthread.php?t=144559&highlight=dm), but I'm wondering specifically if either of them has "solved" the difficulty of hand-holding the ex3 or whether it's just another jerry-rigged halfway measure.

I have the Vortex Media VSB1 shoulder mount. While I like the shape and design, I ended up adding some of my own sliding plates and clamps. I wish the metal were twice as thick as the current brace flexes with an EX1 and bounces up and down. I understand that the makers wanted to keep the brace light, but I wouldn't mind a little extra weight in the interest of stability.

I just received the DM Shoulder Mount with the flip-out battery plate and IDX attachment. It feels rock solid, and seems like it's made the EX3 into a properly weighted camera. I'm going into the field about a week from now for a month of shooting so I'll definitely be putting it to the test. I'll report back here.

Hey guys.

I've been using the ST-7 shoulder mount with a Sony battery set-up. I like it. Balance is a bit off, a bit front heavy without wide angle, pretty front heavy with wide angle. It comes equiped with a V mount for the full size Sony batteries so no need to buy another mount.

The only problem is that you can't attach rails for a matte box.

Has anyone manipulated their ST-7 to accept rails? If so, what brand of matte box are you using? I was thinking about possibly welding rail guides on but since I live hours by plane from the nearest supplier, testing matte boxes before buying isn't an option.

Any thoughts?

Joe