Bogen 521 Pro and Sony Z1U? at DVinfo.net

George Yousko · August 16th, 2006, 10:43 AM

Pretty much have decided on the Bogen 521 Pro. Hoping to get some feedback on this unit in working with Sony's Z1U prior to purchase. Could anyone share their experiences with this setup? Or would the Zoe be a better mousetrap for this camera? Any input would be appreciated.

Todd Eichel · August 20th, 2006, 09:49 AM

I tested a Bogen 521 (non pro) on what I'm almost positive was a Z1U. It was for sure a Sony HDV camera. In any case, it worked perfectly! Don't waste your money on the more expensive ones if all you want is zoom control.

George Yousko · August 29th, 2006, 08:51 PM

Hello Todd,

Thanks for your input - I did order and just received the Bogan 521 and yes I did get the pro model. I can see where you're right that the 521 will get the job done and quite nicely too.

This is an excellent unit - naturally more bells and whistles than the 521. You have progressive zoom speed as well as the ability to lock down to a constant speed of your choice based on Sony's lanc zoom setting - about 30 seconds on the slowest and 2 or 3 seconds on the fasted - either way incredibly smooth. That majestic slow zoom of 75+ seconds can only be achieved by using the rocker on the camera itself. Camera on/off (standby) - placing the camera lens on manual allows the controller to operate the focusing and also put it into quick auto focus mode - very nice indeed.

George

August 16th, 2006, 10:43 AM	#1
George Yousko Regular Crew Join Date: May 2005 Posts: 38	Bogen 521 Pro and Sony Z1U? Pretty much have decided on the Bogen 521 Pro. Hoping to get some feedback on this unit in working with Sony's Z1U prior to purchase. Could anyone share their experiences with this setup? Or would the Zoe be a better mousetrap for this camera? Any input would be appreciated.

August 29th, 2006, 08:51 PM	#3
George Yousko Regular Crew Join Date: May 2005 Posts: 38	Follow Up Hello Todd, Thanks for your input - I did order and just received the Bogan 521 and yes I did get the pro model. I can see where you're right that the 521 will get the job done and quite nicely too. This is an excellent unit - naturally more bells and whistles than the 521. You have progressive zoom speed as well as the ability to lock down to a constant speed of your choice based on Sony's lanc zoom setting - about 30 seconds on the slowest and 2 or 3 seconds on the fasted - either way incredibly smooth. That majestic slow zoom of 75+ seconds can only be achieved by using the rocker on the camera itself. Camera on/off (standby) - placing the camera lens on manual allows the controller to operate the focusing and also put it into quick auto focus mode - very nice indeed. George

August 20th, 2006, 09:49 AM	#2
Todd Eichel New Boot Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Pittsburgh, PA Posts: 9	I tested a Bogen 521 (non pro) on what I'm almost positive was a Z1U. It was for sure a Sony HDV camera. In any case, it worked perfectly! Don't waste your money on the more expensive ones if all you want is zoom control.