Settings for Rebel T1i on a Merlin? at DVinfo.net

Jonathan Bufkin · June 27th, 2009, 07:44 AM

Anyone balanced a Rebel T1i on a Merlin and care to share their settings? I have found the setting for a 5d mkII but not for this Rebel.

Sean Seah · June 27th, 2009, 10:11 AM

Hi Jonathan, the best way is to do the balancing from scratch. Reason is the balance depends on the lens used and the zoom position if it is a zoom lens. Below is a method I use . I recommend to use a quick release like the one below as i have experienced the 5D2 rotating in the midst of a move. Its very low profile and anti slip which is key, as the Rebel doesn't have an anti rotation pin like camcorders.

618711 Slik DQ-L Magnesium Quick Release Adapter Set with DQ-L Plate, Large

- Find the CG of the camera with a pencil
- Mount the plate with the hole H closest to the camera CG
- Open the spar to the maximum position and mount about the same counterweights as the load
- Adjust for static balance, slide the plate to a middle or slightly to the rear position (too much to the back may cause the some of the merlin to get into the frame)
- Hold the handle and move the merlin side to side. If you get swaying, start closing the spar. The stage will tilt and you have to rebalance statically
- Keep repeating the above step until the merlin doesn't sway. If it still swings with the spar very closed up, remove one weight
- Once it is ok, u can test the drop time. About 1.5 sec is ok for me

I used 2 end weights with the 5D2 and 16-35mm without a quick release the last time.
Good luck.

Jonathan Bufkin · June 27th, 2009, 10:33 AM

Thanks Sean for sharing your method. You're right about the lens weight and this will give me a good place to start.

June 27th, 2009, 07:44 AM	#1
Jonathan Bufkin Major Player Join Date: May 2006 Location: Nashville, TN Posts: 253	Settings for Rebel T1i on a Merlin? Anyone balanced a Rebel T1i on a Merlin and care to share their settings? I have found the setting for a 5d mkII but not for this Rebel. __________________ Jon Bufkin focalpointcinematic.com

June 27th, 2009, 10:33 AM	#3
Jonathan Bufkin Major Player Join Date: May 2006 Location: Nashville, TN Posts: 253	Thanks Sean for sharing your method. You're right about the lens weight and this will give me a good place to start. __________________ Jon Bufkin focalpointcinematic.com

June 27th, 2009, 10:11 AM	#2
Sean Seah Trustee Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Singapore Posts: 1,498	Hi Jonathan, the best way is to do the balancing from scratch. Reason is the balance depends on the lens used and the zoom position if it is a zoom lens. Below is a method I use . I recommend to use a quick release like the one below as i have experienced the 5D2 rotating in the midst of a move. Its very low profile and anti slip which is key, as the Rebel doesn't have an anti rotation pin like camcorders. 618711 Slik DQ-L Magnesium Quick Release Adapter Set with DQ-L Plate, Large - Find the CG of the camera with a pencil - Mount the plate with the hole H closest to the camera CG - Open the spar to the maximum position and mount about the same counterweights as the load - Adjust for static balance, slide the plate to a middle or slightly to the rear position (too much to the back may cause the some of the merlin to get into the frame) - Hold the handle and move the merlin side to side. If you get swaying, start closing the spar. The stage will tilt and you have to rebalance statically - Keep repeating the above step until the merlin doesn't sway. If it still swings with the spar very closed up, remove one weight - Once it is ok, u can test the drop time. About 1.5 sec is ok for me I used 2 end weights with the 5D2 and 16-35mm without a quick release the last time. Good luck.