Much thanks for all the responses to my previous post - sub $1000 options. I've just landed a big contract with a new client, so I've upped my camera stabilizer budget to $3000. Again, I have a Canon XHA1 w/ the Redrock M2 lens adapter, and Varizoom 7" 16:9 LCD, so all in all, a bit heavy. Any consensus on what would be the best product for the money?

Thanks in advance,
Luke

How do you plan to control focus during your shots?

- Mikko

Hey Luke,
At a budget <$3000 there's a good chance you won't be able to fly the rig with your M2. A remote follow focus (cheapest is the Foveas at http://www.foveas.com/rff.html ) is more than $1k and with all that equipment I don't think there's a sub-$2k stabilizer out there that will meet the load requirement. Besides that, flying a rig and pulling focus is a two man job, so if you work alone...it's a no go.

Sounds like it's a lot more involved than I realized. If I can match the lens adapter footage with stuff shot without it, perhaps I could just get a rig to fly the XHA1 and not use the adapter for stabilizer shots?

That would be the best bet, yes.

Definatly much easier (and a better idea if you ask me) to leave off the 35mm adapter.

When you adapt to 35mm lenses, you have to be prepared to take on all the responsibilty/trouble of the 35mm format, not just the benefits. And focussing 35mm is bear - especially on a Steadicam.


So.. for just the XH-A1 (you don't need to fly the monitor either - the camera's LCD is just fine for framing) I'd recomend the Steadicam Merlin, and then the Merlin Arm and Vest when they are available later this year. The Merlin is 800, and with the Arm and Vest you should still be well under your $3k budget, and you'll have the best system available!

- Mikko

Thanks so much! I don't know what I'd do without all of you! (other than make a lot more mistakes and waste a lot more money)

Cheers!

I am very curious to check out the Merlin vest and arm -- but until then, this is a great option for the dollars:

http://www.glidecam.com/product-smooth-shooter.php

1500.00 + 500.00 for the 4000 Pro

Take a look at this one http://fsprostabilisateur.com/index.htm. I have ordered one for me, I can't find a better solution for the same price.

Same opinion here. It is a bargain.

Terry is always very quiet trying not to run afoul with the rules. You should really look at Indicam too. http://www.indicam.com/

Hey, what rules are foul?

Yes, We have to rely on customers to make recommendations unless someone ask us specific questions.

Our customers are our greatest advertisements and we try hard to make and keep them happy.

Thanks George.

Tery
Indicam

Hey, what rules are foul?

Chris' very appropriate advertiser links rules :D

And Terry being shy :D