The "Merlin" is out!
 

I just found this on Tiffen's website, people at NAB might have seen it already. It appears to be the replacement for the Steadicam JR and the new handheld stabilizer everyone's been waiting for.

It accepts cameras from 8oz to 5lbs and weighs 12.8oz.

Check it out:

http://www.steadicam.com/news041905-2.html

No details yet on price but it looks very very promising.

EDIT, found the brochure:

http://www.tiffen.com/Steadicam_Merlin_brchr_9.pdf

Any idea what it looks like? I poked around their web site but could'nt find a pic.

Looks like two tubes bent in the form of a jr, no monitor.

Looks like Tiffen has a press confrence setup for today, we might see something else.

Tim

AWESOME.

Please post any info as it comes available...this is much anticipated and a long time coming...

Flew it--it's nice.

I'll post more shortly.

Found a different press release with image and brochure!

http://www.tiffen.com/Press_Release_Merlin.htm

Thanks for the link!
I'm ready to order now. I wonder if it is actually ready to ship?
[I hope it really is "affordable" though...]

From the pix--JR users are going to love this thing..works exactly the same.

Can't wait to get one.

ADDENDUM:

Emailed Frank Rush of Tiffen...he says anticipates 90-120 days before shipping of the new Merlin.

B&H will have them...

Aw crap...I happen to need one in a month.

Any information about price?

The introductory price for Merlin is $899.00. For cameras above 3 1/2 pounds you also need the HeavyWeight kit $149.00.


Tim

Uhhh...really? Where did you find this information?

This is quite a shock, considering the Steadicam JR right now w/o monitor sells for $349 and w/monitor $549. From the looks of the Merlin, I'd say the right price should be more like $299.

$899 is nowhere near affordable. Guess I'll have to go ahead and buy the JR...

Email from Frank Rush. I'm thinking that's a pretty high price also.

Tim

Wheeeew.. nine hundred bucks.. must say that does seem a little steap.

But it does look preaty decent too :-)

I wonder if there will be an optional monitor for it?

- Mikko

I think there's still life left in my jr. Unless the Merlin does wonders, and maybe Tiffen will have a coupon day.

Tim

Any demo video shot by Merlin by an experienced steadicam operator?

Regards
Leigh

The Merlin should deliver similar operating results as a JR, as the gimbal is essentially the same. The more rigid construction suggests that it will resist vibration better than its prededecessor. The lighter weight means less fatigue.