Tiffen announces new low cost Steadicams at NAB 07 - *** Now Shipping! ***

[mikkowilson]

Tiffen/Steadicam is announcing multiple new options in the low-cost stabilizer market at NAB 2007.

http://nab.mikkowilson.com/PilotMerlinArmVest.jpg
Steadicam Operators Peter Abraham (left) and Mikko Wilson (right) demonstrate the new Steadicam Pilot and Merlin Arm & Vest systems at NAB 2007


The new Steadicam Pilot (pictured, left) is a low cost (around $4,000) Steadicam for cameras weighing up to about 10lbs. It features:

A double section silky smooth Iso-Elastic arm with an amazing 28" boom range - which is equal to or more than any other arm on the Market except for Steadicam's own higher end arms. The arm uses the same technology as the highly regard Flyer and G-series Steadicam arms.
A telescoping carbon fiber sled that is internally wired for 12v power and Composite video.
A tools free micro adjustable X-Y camera stage with removable camera plate.
The Steadicam Pilot is available initially with a choice of a 3.5" color 4:3 LCD monitor and a 12v AA battery back (The "co-pilot"), or a 5.8" 16:9/4:3 color LCD and V-mount/Anton Bauer battery mounts (The "pilot").
The sled base is highly adjustable for quick and easy balancing by moving the monitor, battery, and entire base. PLUS the base also accepts standard Steadicam Merlin counterweights to be screwed on in various locations as necessary to quickly add stabilizing mass.
The Pilot comes with a super light weight low profile vest with standard features for fast adjust-ability of fit, a fully adjustable "socket-block" to trim the arm to fly level and the option to mount the arm on either side of the operator.
The sled and arm both break down into components for light and compact transportation. You can fit the whole system into a backpack.When you don't need the capacity and features of the Steadicam Flyer, the Steadicam Pilot is the perfect rig for most 1/3" cameras.


The Steadicam Merlin can now carry more weight thanks to an optional upgrade of an all-metal gimble that allows the Merlin to carry cameras weighing up to 7lbs. (this would get tiring quickly, so...)


The same arm and vest from the Steadicam Pilot system, are available as a kit with the metal Merlin Gimble and additional Merlin counterweights, as the "Merlin Arm & Vest" system (pictured, right) which allows the operator to shoot with a 7lb camera payload on the Merlin for (quite literally) hours! It's so light and comfortable that the camera will run out of tape before the operator tires..

The same arm as the Pilot provides for that huge 28" boom range - that can be increased by simply flying the Merlin off the arm into "handheld mode" mid shot (I tried this today myself, takes a bit of practice but very doable).
The arm breaks down into 2 pieces for fast transportation with the folded Merlin and the packed lightweight vest.Prices:
The official list prices:
The Steadicam Merlin Arm & Vest. Includes metal gimble upgrade for Merlin and some extra counterweights. (Does not include the Merlin itself) - $1995

The Steadicam "Pilot". With 5.8" 16:9 monitor & professional (V-mount/AB) Battery mount. (Includes all you need, including the dock - but not the stand itself [as many people allready have a stand) - $3995

The Steadicam "Co-Pilot". With 3.5" 4:3 monitor and 12v AA battery pack. Includes the same other gear as the Pilot. - $3750


- Mikko

[lucidz]

Mikko if you're in NAB, come by the booth and say hey.

[mikkowilson]

Which booth?

- Mikko

[ecking]

Merlin Arm and Vest looks so f**king awesome. I'm too excited for that!

[MattDavis]

The new Steadicam Pilot... is a low cost (around $4,000) Steadicam

Boggle!

Can I seek a little clarity - in that the Flyer has dropped in price based on the 2007 Tiffen price list to about $4k? Even if the battery & monitor system are additional, then that's an amazing price cut (was about $7.5 - $9k). Or is this a smaller Flyer?

Second question: are you saying that the Merlin combo uses the Flyer arm? IIRC, I saw a Flyer arm and the CES Merlin arm side by side in a pic - the latter being a 2/3 scale replica. But if a Merlin (albeit with uprated components) becomes a sort of quick release Sled/Shoulder Mount, I can see sense in that too, especially combined with the idea that the new Flyer is smaller...

Or perhaps I should stop blathering and let NAB take its course. :-D

[mikkowilson]

The Flyer has not changed. It's still $7k+

The Pilot is a totally new rig that uses the same "mini-Flyer" arm (and vest) as the Merlin arm/vest


So, You've got the Merlin for handheld at $850 [MSRP]
The Flyer (up to 15lbs) at $7k, the Pilot (<10lbs) somewhere around $4k, and then the arm&vest for the Merlin (<7lbs) somwhere under the Pilot.

Once I hear more exact pricing, I can make up a little chart of the options.

- Mikko

[MattDavis]

The Pilot is a totally new rig that uses the same "mini-Flyer" arm (and vest) as the Merlin arm/vest


So, You've got the Merlin for handheld at $850 [MSRP]
The Flyer (up to 15lbs) at $7k, the Pilot (<10lbs) somewhere around $4k, and then the arm&vest for the Merlin (<7lbs) somwhere under the Pilot.

Serves me right for posting before the second cup of coffee. Pilot <--> Flyer - didn't get the pun, now 'by jove I've got it'.

Thanks for the clarity,

Matt - waiting on the third cup of coffee after a Sunday night FCP/NAB info orgy.

[mikkowilson]

Edit: Prices now added to the first post.

- Mikko

[MattDavis]

Great news, and 'on the nose'.

Now for the next killer question: when will they be available?

[mikkowilson]

The Merlin Vest and Arm will be available prety much immidiatly.

The Pilot is still undergoing final development (the rigs at NAB are prototypes), there is no promised ship date (pre-orders are beeing taken), but it won't be very long.

- Mikko

[MattDavis]

it won't be very long.

I can barely contain my excitement.

In which case, here's a question for the Steadicam crew:

If I get a Merlin, plus a vest and arm rig, so I can fly NOW, is there an upgrade path to the Pilot sled? IOW, puchase a Merlin bundle, add the sled later rather than buy the full Pilot rig later?

I am assured by a good friend and Merlin user (Rick Young - he should be dropping by the booth today) that I'll want a Merlin anyway...

[LuckyStudio 13]

Thank You Mikko for the report !! The merlin rig is going to be very very popular !!

[Mike McNeese]

Wow, I think they hit the nail on the head with the Merlin Rig. I'll be taking a very serious look at that! Thanks for the thorough report!

[mikkowilson]

Matt; yes there will be an upgrade path to the Pilot from the Merlin / Arm / Vest. It'll probabaly simply involve buying the Pilot sled seperatly (price as of yet undetermined) and then either keeping, or selling off, the Merlin.

- Mikko

[gco]

Mikko,
any chance you can post a few detail pics of the arm, like the socket block connection, the elbow or connection to the Merlin end?
thanks,
g

[Emanuel]

Yes, I second the plead.

Gary,

I'm glad you're OK. After that tragedy in Virginia my thoughts were on you.

E.

[Mike@AF]

I have a Glidecam V16 and would welcome the option to switch to a Pilot for my HVX200. What options will be available? Any low mode option? When will more details be available? Thanks!

[arrestthisman]

Wait, so can you buy the Merlin with the new Gimbal WITHOUT the arm and vest?

I don't really need it since I'll be doing really short takes, and only occasionally at that. Plus I have access to a PA who is a body builder, so...

But I have an HVX so I gots to get that gimbal!

[AbracadabraFilms]

Mikko...any word or pix of the new dual arm smooth shooter? Upgrade kit available to smooth shooter owners for $700. Thanks, Craig

[gco]

Well, you can sort of see the socket block on page 3 of the atttached link but not too well. Looks interesting.
http://www.tiffen.com/userimages/SteadicamMerlinArmVest_0407.pdf
I wish we could have a really clear close up. As far as the upgraded gimbal goes, I'm willing to bet they offer that updgade by itself.

[mikkowilson]

I'll have pics up soon, however..

The Merlin & Pilot (having the same arm & vest) have a standard "Flyer size" Steadicam socket block. (You can use the Flyer arm & vest interchangably if you want) You have full trim control of the angle of the arm.

The pilot is a fully featured Steadicam, it uses the same low-mode kit as the Flyer, and other accessories (like the vehical mount kit). The Pilot is even built so that it can be retrofitted with a Tilt-Stage! (You won't find that on a Glidecam!)

And yes, the metal gimble upgrade will be available for the Merlin without the arm and the vest if you want (though it is included with them).

- Mikko

[gco]

Thanks Mikko.
look forward,
g

[arrestthisman]

How much for just the gimbal? do we know yet?

[for_mlove]

I wasn't expecting the Pilot, so now I have a tough decision between getting the Merlin setup or saving up a little more for the Pilot... anyone have any insight on what factors should cause a person to sway one way or the other?

[R Gale]

I wasn't expecting the Pilot, so now I have a tough decision between getting the Merlin setup or saving up a little more for the Pilot... anyone have any insight on what factors should cause a person to sway one way or the other? The cool thing is that Mikko said there will be an upgrade path from the Merlin setup to the Pilot (which is what I'm probably going to do)... so you can spend $2K now for the Merlin arm & vest, and later upgrade to the Pilot. (As Mikko said, it's already the same arm/vest as the Pilot.)

I wore the new Merlin rig at NAB, for over an hour. It's awesome-- the Merlin just floats effortlessly in front of you-- I couldn't feel the weight of it. :thumbsup:

[mikkowilson]

No word on prices for the individual parts that will be available (Metal Merlin Gimble, Pilot Sled...)

As for Merlin vs Pilot. The question is simply how much do you want to fly? Pilot holds more, but Merlin is smaller and can still go handheld whenever you want/need to.
Pilot does also have a monitor included, and a 12v power output at the stage.

For example:
A HVX with a screw on filter and a shotgun for weddings; Merlin with Arm & Vest would be better.
A HVX with a Vidled, a mattebox & filters, and a audio reciver; The Pilot would be the way to go.


- Mikko

[shm]

Flyer vs Pilot?
Mikko - How would you compare these two?

is the extra 5lbs weight limit worth the extra $$$?
the cams I would fly would mostly be in the HDV/ HVX type cam.

...Because the Flyer is slightly larger and heavier, is it inherently more stable than the Pilot?


How different are the vests?

telescoping post...is that a huge advantage to the Pilot?

is the stage the same?

any info/comparison between the two would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much, your info/insight has been great for those that didn't make it to NAB.

shm

[mikkowilson]

Good questions shm.

The 5lbs extra weight is worth the $$$ if your camera weighs 12lbs.
If you are absoloutly sure you arn't going over 10lbs, then the Pilot is enough.

Yes, a heavier rig is inherently more stable. Both rigs offer a multitude of balancing options. - For example, I think the Pilot can actually be made more resistive to motion than the Flyer due to how it's masses can be spread.

The Flyer vest has clips and is designed to hold a heavier sled. It's a little faster to take on and off. The Pilot vest is lighter and more adjustable. It's also more compact when packed away.


In some situations the Pilot's telescoping post is a huge advantage over the Flyer's non-telescoping post.

No the stage is not the same. The Flyer uses a dovetail plate. The Pilot uses a different type of stage plate.
The Pilot has micro-adjustments in both directions, the Flyer's fore-aft adjustment isn't quite so precise.
The Pilot's stage can be retrofitted to become a tilting stage, the Flyer's can't.

The Pilot is only available as a 12v / SD system. the Flyer is available with Frameline generators, a 24v version and a HD version (with HD monitor).

The Pilot sled is a little more flexibile in the way it can be configured. The Flyer is a simpler base rig that holds more payload and has more options for bigger cameras.

- Mikko

[for_mlove]

No word on prices for the individual parts that will be available (Metal Merlin Gimble, Pilot Sled...)

- Mikko

Just saw this on B & H this morning, Merlin Gimble replacement for $119. It doesn't say for sure that this is the new improved metal one, but I don't remember seeing it there before. Couldn't find a new Merlin or vest though...

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=Search&A=details&Q=&sku=422582&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

[mikkowilson]

That is the regular Plastic gimble. The Metal gimble will cost more. (Why? Well, it's metal, not plastic!)

- Mikko

[shm]

Mikko...thanks for the Flyer vs pilot comparison...wouldn't it be nice if the Flyer had a tilting stage and telescoping post? The Pilot seems like a great option for the smaller cams these days...and also a great way to "get in the steadicam game" so to speak with an arm that acts like it's bigger brothers

[ifownlee41nite@mac.com]

Doesn't the Merlin beat that price?

[shm]

Mikko- is the balance kind of funky with the Merlin on the arm? Do you adjust the rig before you add the arm and then again when you put the merlin on the arm? What are the nuances of the set-up? thanks-

[JimmerCam]

Hello everyone...

I've been working with one of the prototypes for the past few weeks. I'm starting up a website called MerlinResource.com which will be opening soon!!

I've been a Steadicam operator for 6 years or so, starting with the JR and progressing. I've done booth demos with Tiffen Europe showing off Merlins, Flyers, Archers, Clippers, etc. - so I may have seen you guys at some point before and not realised!

In answer to some requests for close ups of vest and arm stuff, please see a quick gallery I've put together at:
http://www.merlinresource.com/merlinvestarm/

I've had it for a few weeks so I'll be happy to answer any questions - I do not work for Tiffen so I dont know pricing other than what Mikko has already said. In the UK, we (Tiffen Europe and myself) are thinking of running Merlin workshops with the rigs and vest and arms and giving demos/lessons for colleges and schools, etc.

I hope you are all well
- JE

[JimmerCam]

Mikko- is the balance kind of funky with the Merlin on the arm? Do you adjust the rig before you add the arm and then again when you put the merlin on the arm? What are the nuances of the set-up? thanks-

No... You balance the Merlin as you would do then simply place the handle on the arm and adjust the arm if needed.

- JE

[mikkowilson]

Hey James! Welcome to DVXuser! :beer: :beer:

- Mikko

[JimmerCam]

Cheers Mikko!

I saw this post a while ago and there seemed loads of questions! I thought I'd ease the load if I could.

:-D

- JE

[Robert Eldon]

Mikko,

It was a pleasure to meet you at NAB. Thanks for letting Jaron and I try out the steadicam merlin with the vest and arm. It was great to 'try before we buy' and get instruction from an expert. Thanks for your attention and patience.

Best Regards,

Robert Eldon

[ade4all]

sorry if this is a bit off topic but just looked at the updated tiffen website & they say in the new arm & vest section
"...Merlin was rated to carry camcorders weighing only as much as six pounds (2.7 kg)."
whilst the existing information has always stipulated (& still says) maximum of 5 pounds. Just wondered if 6 pounds is now understood to be ok with the original plastic gimbal - this could make a big difference to me as far as adding accessories to the dvx. Don't want to try it though only to break my gimbal cause of a typo

[ecking]

I heard the Steadicam inventor in an interview say that merlin can do 5 to 5 1/2 pounds, you could probably strech it to 6 but I'd stop at 5.5, if you need more I guess get that metal part that's coming out.

[JimmerCam]

sorry if this is a bit off topic but just looked at the updated tiffen website & they say in the new arm & vest section
"...Merlin was rated to carry camcorders weighing only as much as six pounds (2.7 kg)."
whilst the existing information has always stipulated (& still says) maximum of 5 pounds. Just wondered if 6 pounds is now understood to be ok with the original plastic gimbal - this could make a big difference to me as far as adding accessories to the dvx. Don't want to try it though only to break my gimbal cause of a typo

I would not personally go over the 5 pounds. There must be a reason Tiffen set it at this limit 2-3 years ago.

Even if the current gimbal could lift 6 pounds, you can be assured you'd be weakening the plastic every time you used it. The biggest danger is to the plastic ring bearing in the gimbal and the small section connecting the handle to the gimbal. I wouldn't want to put these parts under undue stress.

It's also worth noting (for those who dont own one) that the gimbal isn't entirely plastic. There is one main pan bearing in there that is made of metal already, but connects to plastic rings for the other axis'.

- JE

[ade4all]

thanks for the swift replies, had read 5.5lbs as maximum (hvx) & have found the merlin harder but still manageable to fly when getting close to that weight. Have been wanting to get the accessory plate so as to place more of the extra weight below.
looking forward to your merlin resource site james, sounds like it's going to be invaluable. on another side note (maybe i should take this to another thread?) - have been experimenting with adding extra bits on the dvx & think i have it flying quite well but wondered if other people have better configurations for similar set ups - the merlincookbook only mentions camera & battery configs, maybe a new thread with users putting different accessory set ups would be a useful addition to this already fantastic site?

[JimmerCam]

MerlinResource.com will have the first dedicated forum for JR and Merlin users. Myself and Mikko will be there and maybe the great man himself Garrett Brown.

If the scripting goes well it will allow you to log in to the site access forums and post pictures and even videos of your Steadicam Rigs/Work.

Naturally we'll be writing up tips, tricks, pics, etc, etc.

You'll almost certainly be able to share your variations on balancing.

[gco]

James,
Those pics were fantastic. I especially appreciate the detail of the socket block connection--never seen one before. Thanks so much for posting. Looking forward to your new site.
gco

[JimmerCam]

No problems! Glad to be of assistance...

- JE

[mikkowilson]

To add to James' comments..

The absolout limit for the original (plastic) gimble is 5.5lbs of camera weight. Any more than that and you are risking gimble faliure - maybe not a clean break, but you may warp it in a way that won't show untill you review your shots in post and they wonder a little too much.

The Metal gimble is the only way to fly camera payloads of over 5.5lbs. ..up to 7lbs.


- Mikko

[Mike@AF]

I'm pretty much sold on the Pilot. When will pricing be available on all the accessories? I'm going to want the low-mode, vehicle, and tilt options. Also, when will availability be announced so I know when to sell my Glidecam V16? Thanks!

[mikkowilson]

Most of the accessories are the same accesories as are used for the Flyer. The lowmode kit and vehical mount kit are allready available from Steadicam (and their vendors)

The Pilot should be available towards the later half of this summer. Not sure when the Tilt option will be available - possibly the same time.

- Mikko

[gco]

I called Tiffen today and asked when the Pilot was going to be available. She put me on hold for a while then came back and said they were trying for May!!!.
Whos to say whether she asked another clerk or somebody in production. Sooner would be good. We'll see.

[Mike@AF]

Mikko,

I found the pricing on the Low Mode kit for the Flyer. Is the video cage an addon for the Low Mode kit or is the same as Low Mode kit but with the cage? I can't tell because $550 seems like a lot for just a cage.

Also I couldn't find a vehicle mount kit for the Flyer in the price list.

[mikkowilson]

There are multiple parts:

The "F-bracket", which is a piece that goes between the arm and the Gimble that allows the sled to hang lower off the arm.
The F-bracket looks like this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/smallimages/192877.jpg


The "low-mode Clamp", which is a peice that clamps around the handle of your camera and has mounting holes in to. This allows you to mount the camera to the stage by it's handle - allowing it to "hang" below a upside-down sled in Low-Mode

The "Low mode kit" includes both the F-backet and the Low-Mode Clamp.
It looks like this:
http://www.fotokonijnenberg.nl/images/content/klein/23529.jpg
(The clamp is clampped around the F-bracket for packing, poor photo - sorry.)


In adition there is a "low mode cage" which is a cage for your camera allowing it to hang from the stage, just like the clamp. The case is for cameras without a handle to clamp to.
Here's one in use with a larger camera:
http://usuarios.lycos.es/steadifilms/hpbimg/low_mode.jpg


Call Tiffen to ask about the vehical mount.


- Mikko

[for_mlove]

The Pilot is now showing up for pre-order at B&H, no news on merlin vest yet (that I've seen) which is odd since it was supposed to be available first...

Price listed is $3799

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=3927&A=details&Q=&sku=494657&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

[gco]

I spoke with someone in customer service at Tiffen yesterday. Unlike what I was told earlier, he confirmed availability of the vest/arm is targetted for late summer as Mikko stated earlier. He also said that could change at any time. Sooner would certainly be better.

[Eatsnax]

Was wondering what rig I should go with the DVX-100 since I want to be able to fly the camera with a 35mm adapter. Namely the Breavis, Lethus or M2 Im not sure yet. What are you suggestions on a good rig and adapter to use with the DVX? Thanks

[mikkowilson]

What follow focus system will you be using?

(This is a lead in question I often use in regards to 35mm adapters on Steadicam. Running a Search for "Steadicam Adapter" or various 35mm adapter brand names will find that controlling that 35mm lens on a Steadicam is supprizingly difficult, and expensive.)



With that said, the Steadicam Flyer would be about right to give you the weight capcity to carry a DVX+adapter+lens+focus reciver & motors.


- Mikko

[gco]

Price List is up!
http://www.steadicam.com/images/content/Steadicam_MerlinPL50807.pdf
No more info on the sled yet.

[D.L.]

Here is a corrected link...really excited for this system!

http://www.steadicam.com/images/content/Steadicam_Pilot_PL50807.pdf

[D.L.]

And a link to the brochure.

http://www.steadicam.com/images/content/SteadicamPilot_0407.pdf

[dogman-x]

Forgive my ignorance - I'm just getting into all this. Are there any issues with using the Pilot in Low Mode (inverted), like for Skateboard videos?

[mikkowilson]

The Steadicam Pilot will work just fine in low mode. The same low-mode kit that is available for the Flyer will work with the Pilot.

- Mikko

[for_mlove]

Is this product ever going to be released?!? I've been watching for this and/or the merlin vest forever!!

I know, I know... patience, it's just been a really long wait.

[gco]

Tiffen says end of this summer.

[R Gale]

Is this product ever going to be released?!? I've been watching for this and/or the merlin vest forever!!

I know, I know... patience, it's just been a really long wait.

I feel for you. I got to try the Merlin arm & vest at NAB in April... seems like ages ago!
I can hardly wait...

[mikkowilson]

Update:
The Steadicam Merlin Arm & Vest are now shipping!

Check with your favorite vendor, or directly with Tiffen/Steadicam, for availability.


- Mikko

[strangways]

...and hopefully the Pilot is shipping soon! I've got one on order from Kingsway Motion Picture in Toronto. With any luck the Pilots will be flying in to Canada soon.

If anyone in the GTA is interested in checking it out once I get mine, send me a message and I'd be happy to share the Steadicam goodness.

[R Gale]

Update:
The Steadicam Merlin Arm & Vest are now shipping!

Check with your favorite vendor, or directly with Tiffen/Steadicam, for availability.
- Mikko

Wooo-Hooooo!!!:thumbup:
Thanks Mikko!

[Jockomo]

Does anyone have any info about the 5.8" monitor?

Like what model is it or is it a HD monitor?

Can a different monitor be mounted in the same location easily?

Thanks

[mikkowilson]

It's not a HD monitor .. though you really don't need one, as any camera you'd fly on the Pilot has a SD output.

Mechanically the connection is a standard tripod thread, but I don't recall the exact connectors on the wires. Call Tiffen and ask them about what connectors they have for each monitor.

- Mikko

[MattDavis]

Does anyone have any info about the 5.8" monitor?

I can't be specific as I've not used it (but I have ordered it over the little one). Native 16:9, brighter than the 4:3 and run off an AB battery or somesuch rather than AA cells or the camera's battery. A little extra weight is probably a good thing. If it's anything like the larger models' screens, I'd be very happy.

I had a chance to play with a prototype Pilot a couple of months ago, fitted with the smaller 3.5" 4:3 screen. Even with some cunningly crafted makeshift baffles, it was difficult to see in daylight and a little too small for my eyes.

[Daygola814]

Looks like a really great product. I'd love to get one.

[drameddie]

What's the price? I'm a bit confused. Is it $2000 for the Arm and vest?

[for_mlove]

No, $2000 is for everything except the Merlin. Confusing I know.

[gco]

http://www.steadicam.com/images/content/Steadicam_MerlinPL50807.pdf

Edit: Well I'll be damned!
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/487368-REG/Steadicam_AVGPK_ARM_VEST_f_MERLIN.html

[superhardrocker]

It's not worth it right? 2000 dollars for a vest and the stability/control is pretty much the same.(except you can hold it longer)
Better to get a new steadicam.

[mikkowilson]

It is very much worth it if you are dooing nay longer shots with heavier cameras. As you get tired, you become ihenrently less stable and your footage begins to suffer. Also, with teh arm you can concentrate 100% on moving the camera, instead of having to worry about hand grip to suport it.

And the other Steadicams then of course cater to heavier cameras. Unless you add weight to the camera, gettign a bigger Steadicam won't really help you much if you are shooting with a small camera.

- Mikko

[dogman-x]

OK, what are the trade-offs between the Merlin/arm/vest and the Pilot for use with a Canon XH A1?

Given that the XH A1 uses 7.2 volt power, would the Pilot batteries power the XH A1 or just the monitor?

How big of an advantage is it to look down at the 5.8" pilot monitor vs. look up at the small XH A1 monitor? What are the differences in stability?

Bottom line: is it really worth the extra $1000 for the Pilot?

Also, what other hidden costs are associated with this type of rig? For the Pilot, what battery options would make the most sence for a 1st time buyer with an XH A1?

[mikkowilson]

Normally you use the camera's own battery with DV cameras - as they don't have a 12v input.

The monitor on the Pilot is in a better location for viewing than the camera's own LCD .. or rather, you can always see the Pilot's monitor, whereas it's possible to sometimes be blocked from seeing the Camera's LCD.

The Pilot is a larger rig than the Merlin, and combined with it's larger weight, this does give it more inertia, and therefore making it more stable. So yes, teh pilot is a "steadier" rig.

The Pilot is available in 2 versions:
The "Co-Pilot" which has the smaller 4:3 monitor - and it runs on AA batteries which are of course dirt cheap and available everwhere. So no hidden costs other than a coupel of packs of AAs.
The "Pilot" has the larger 16:9 monitor and you choice of professional battery mount. If you allready have pro batteries (say V-mounts for a monitor for example) then you are all set. If you don't, then you would need to get yourself a couple of batteries and a charger. And that could cost you more, depending on what type of batteries you chose to get.

- Mikko

[strangways]

Compared to using the camera's LCD, the Pilot's LCD has the advantage of being seen from both sides of the rig, plus you can see your feet at the same time, making it a bit easier to avoid tripping on obstacles.

Don't forget that if you find the V-Loc or Anton-Bauer batteries and chargers too expensive that you can actually buy the Pilot with the larger 16:9 monitor and AA batteries.

As per Tiffen's price list:

PILOT
PILOT-AB Sled, Vest, Arm, Back Pack Transport, AB battery mount, 5.8” LCD $3,995.00
PILOT-VL Sled, Vest, Arm, Back Pack Transport, V-Loc battery mount, 5.8” LCD $3,995.00
PILOT-AA Sled, Vest, Arm, Back Pack Transport, AA battery mount, 5.8” LCD $3,995.00

CO-PILOT
PILOT-PCO Sled, Vest, Arm, AA battery mount, 3.5” PAL LCD $3,750.00
PILOT-NCO Sled, Vest, Arm, AA battery mount, 3.5” NTSC LCD $3,750.00

I've ordered the Pilot ($245 for a bigger 16:9 monitor? Yes please!) with the AA battery mount. I'll be testing it upon arrival to see how long a AA set power the monitor, and will post results here. Seeing as a full wireless audio setup for me runs on 10 AAs, and I go through two sets a day, I'm pretty accustomed to it.

I'm thinking that it won't run on rechargeables... 8x 1.5 volts (alkaline AAs) is 12 volts, but rechargeable AAs are 1.2 volts, so, you'd need 10 NiMH AAs for the Pilot or Co-Pilot, right?

And while I'm at it, it's great if you've already got AB or Sony V-Loc batteries, but don't the cameras that use them weigh more than 10 pounds, making them too heavy for the pilot?

[mgibson80]

Is there an upgrade path from the Merlin Vest & Arm to the Pilot? Anyone have an idea how much that will cost?

I have the Merlin now and have had little success flying my HVX200 well. I'm trying to decide if I should get the Merlin Vest & Arm and see how that works for me or go straight to the Pilot.

Any thoughts?

Is the Pilot shipping yet? Has anyone that's placed an order been given an idea when it will be shipping?

best,
matt

[MattDavis]

Is the Pilot shipping yet? Has anyone that's placed an order been given an idea when it will be shipping?

I have a Pilot on order, and currently it's "after IBC". The Merlin's upgraded gimbal will follow later (apparently quite a bit later), so I'm sticking to the Pilot for now.


Is there an upgrade path from the Merlin Vest & Arm to the Pilot?

From my conversations with Tiffen UK, there's no path as such, but IIRC the Merlin vest and arm are the same as the Pilot's vest and arm. So you could get the metal gimbal upgrade for a Merlin to hand-fly the HVX, then get the Pilot with vest and arm, with the option of putting the Merlin on the arm instead of the Pilot sled.

I stand to be corrected, though...

[mikkowilson]

The Merlin's metal gimble is shipping with the Merlin Arm & Vest now.

- Mikko

[MattDavis]

The Merlin's metal gimble is shipping with the Merlin Arm & Vest now.

In the UK?!

My email to Robin has been sent. He had said that IBC was looming large, but there's been no news in the UK market.

Almost every shoot I've done could have been enhanced with some steadicam shots. I've had the pot of cash waiting for quite some time now...

[mikkowilson]

I don't know about the UK .. Robin of course is the man there.

- Mikko

[dogman-x]

Normally you use the camera's own battery with DV cameras - as they don't have a 12v input.
Mikko, thanks for being so responsive on this thread, it definately helps. Now I know I'll have to deal with 2 different sets of batteries/chargers.
Here's another question. What if a DV camera comes along in 2009 with a 12V input? Is there any way to modify the Pilot battery mount after purchase? or am I stuck with that battery mount forever?


I've ordered the Pilot ($245 for a bigger 16:9 monitor? Yes please!) with the AA battery mount. I'll be testing it upon arrival to see how long a AA set power the monitor...
Yes! Please post these results. I'll wait to see this before I order.


I'm thinking that it won't run on rechargeables... 8x 1.5 volts (alkaline AAs) is 12 volts, but rechargeable AAs are 1.2 volts ...
Yes, the monitor is rated for 12V, but it might run fine at 9.6 volts. Let me know if/how this works.

[strangways]

From what I've heard, the AB, V-Loc and AA battery mounts are completely modular and very easy to interchange.

[mikkowilson]

Yes, the battery mounts are fully interchangable in seconds.

And reardless of the battery mount, the power from it through the sled (that runs the monitor) is also always available at the stage for the camera too. All you'd need is one simple cable from the DC connector on the stage to whatever 12v connector the camera uses.

- Mikko

[GuyS]

Mikko
In an earlier post you said that the metal gimbal ship with the new vest. Do you know whether the gimbal ships separately? I haven't been able to find it anywhere by itself.

[mikkowilson]

I don't know if the Metal gimble is available without the arm & vest. Call Steadicam/Tiffen directly and ask about it. www.steadicam.com (http://www.steadicam.com)

- Mikko

[Ing Poh Hii]

Hi All, I am newbie to dvxuser, just been introduced from dvinfo.net :).

I use Canon Xh-A1 and struggle in choosing Merlin Rig & Pilot Rig, greatly appreciate if you can help (as most of your discussion above have helped me a lot already, thanksss).

1. based on Tiffen's reference chart, Merlin handheld is IDEAL for A1 while both Merlin Rig & Pilot Rig are only SUITABLE for A1. Do you know What is the different behind this IDEAL & SUITABLE definition ?

2. What is the total weight of Merlin if configured for A1 ? will it get 2 kilos or more in order to work with A1 ? how would this be considered IDEAL as it seems too heavy for handheld, am I right ? I am a tiny guy, 2 hands holding A1 is the limit I can do for 30min around...

3. Is Pilot easy to setup when changing camera or accessories ? I have a PD170 as well and I understand Merlin have a lot of marking on the plate that might help you to memorise the configuration setting for each camera, also Merlin have some fine-tune panel for balance quick fix. Does Pilot have similar help ? I worry I may need to change the size of battery in the field, will it take me 5 minutes or more to regain the perfect balance ?

4. I believe Tiffen's products are built with highest quality, but which one could last longer time if handle with care (3 years or more ?). It seems to me Merlin's gimbal is easy to break, but now with metal version, it shouldn't be a problem compare to Pilot's gimbal, am i right ?

5. I do wedding event video mostly, long day work. I understand everyone have different fitness. But I wonder if you could work with Merlin rig for 3 hours, how much time you could do with Pilot rig ?


6. Sorry, silly question, what are telescoping & tilting stage ? are they available in Merlin ?

7. Some says Merlin may have monitor in near future, is this something in schedule soon and upgradable for existing Merlin rig ?

Thanks again for helping me :smile:

[dogman-x]

Hi All, I am newbie to dvxuser, just been introduced from dvinfo.net :).

I use Canon Xh-A1 and struggle in choosing Merlin Rig & Pilot Rig, greatly appreciate if you can help (as most of your discussion above have helped me a lot already, thanksss).

1. based on Tiffen's reference chart, Merlin handheld is IDEAL for A1 while both Merlin Rig & Pilot Rig are only SUITABLE for A1. Do you know What is the different behind this IDEAL & SUITABLE definition ?

2. What is the total weight of Merlin if configured for A1 ? will it get 2 kilos or more in order to work with A1 ? how would this be considered IDEAL as it seems too heavy for handheld, am I right ? I am a tiny guy, 2 hands holding A1 is the limit I can do for 30min around...

3. Is Pilot easy to setup when changing camera or accessories ? I have a PD170 as well and I understand Merlin have a lot of marking on the plate that might help you to memorise the configuration setting for each camera, also Merlin have some fine-tune panel for balance quick fix. Does Pilot have similar help ? I worry I may need to change the size of battery in the field, will it take me 5 minutes or more to regain the perfect balance ?

4. I believe Tiffen's products are built with highest quality, but which one could last longer time if handle with care (3 years or more ?). It seems to me Merlin's gimbal is easy to break, but now with metal version, it shouldn't be a problem compare to Pilot's gimbal, am i right ?

5. I do wedding event video mostly, long day work. I understand everyone have different fitness. But I wonder if you could work with Merlin rig for 3 hours, how much time you could do with Pilot rig ?


6. Sorry, silly question, what are telescoping & tilting stage ? are they available in Merlin ?

7. Some says Merlin may have monitor in near future, is this something in schedule soon and upgradable for existing Merlin rig ?

Thanks again for helping me :smile:

I'm a newbie too, but have been looking at this for a while, so here's my 2 cents.

You said you are "a tiny guy", so don't even consider the Merlin by itself. It's much easier to "wear" the camera on your body than to hold it with your hands. If you're doing long duration shoots, get the arm and vest.

The Merlin arm & vest rig doesn't have a monitor. As I understand it, using the LCD on the camera will hinder you on many camera moves and positions. If you're just trying to keep the camera stable at eye level and don't move it around much, the Merlin / arm / vest combo will be fine.

If you want to get the camera really high or really low or you move the camera a lot, you'll be able to see what you're doing much better on the Pilot. The Pilot also seems to be a little more stable. Personally, I'm waiting for the Pilot.

I'll try to answer your questions as best I can. Guys - let me know if I'm off on this...

1. The Merlin by itself uses a human arm, which can generally carry more weight than the iso-elastic arm, so that's why the chart says IDEAL. But as we know, human arms get tired. Bottom line, all three will work fine with the XH-A1.

2. If you are doing long duration shoots, get the arm and vest - either the Merlin combo or the Pilot.

3. Don't know about camera changing times. Why would you change the size of the battery in the field?

4. It should last many years if you take care of it

5. Think of wearing a backpack. It's a nuisance, but you can do it a very long time.

6. There are 3 basic parts: Arm, Vest, and Sled. See picture here:
http://www.steadicam.com/images/content/Dealer_Pilot_Broch_si-lo.pdf
The Pilot Sled has 4 sub-parts:
- Stage - the part that holds the camera
- Post - the vertical post that connects the stage to the cross tube
- Cross Tube - holds the monitor, batteries, and weights
- Gimble - attaches the Sled to the Arm, allows movement in all 3 axis
So a tilting Stage means that you can tilt the camera without tilting the whole Sled. A telescoping Post means that you can make it longer to get the camera up really high, or down low in inverted mode. Inverted mode is where the camera is on the bottom and the cross tube is on top.

7. If you think you need the monitor, go for the Pilot. This is Tiffen's lowest priced product that still has all the basic elements of their bigger rigs. As for adding a monitor and batteries to the Merlin, you would not have the intertial resistance in the pan axis, so it wouldn't be as stable as the Pilot. In other words, the length of the Cross Tube plus the weights at the end make it harder to twist the post inadvertantly.

Which leads us to the inevitable question that has been asked here before: Will Tiffen see fit to sell the Pilot Sled separately? If they do, it might be a while. So if you're unsure - go for the Pilot.

[Ing Poh Hii]

Thank you very much dogman-x :), I now understand why Pilot worth the extra thousand dollars, just for the telescoping & tilting stage, and the blooming range.

Please can I confirm I understand it correctly, with Pilot, you can tilt the camera on the fly without re-configure the balancing weight. Or no, you have to fix the tilting angel and re-adjust the weight to balance the whole sled.

And the position of the post is not fixed with the gimbal, unlike Glidecam Pro sled, the Pilot sled is flexible for us to lock the gimbal at any position of the post on the fly. This will affect the balance, but for temporary shoot with extreme blooming range, this is still a very useful & practical feature.

p/s: the reason I change battery because I have couple different size batteries, I worry a little weight change will cause me lots of time to fix the balancing.

I definitely have to take arm & vest because wedding event in asia would last more then 12 hours a day and have to on-off to up to 5 or 6 different locations. This is why I prefer Merlin Rig as it is so versatile and low profile to use. But you have just give me a good reason to take the Pilot rig. So I have to choose either:
- get a Merlin combo rig first, then get a separate Pilot sled later
- skip Merlin, straight go for Pilot rig. if I am still earning, go back to get a Merlin

Both are nice option, I won't get wrong with either one... mmm.. but which path to go...

When will you get your Pilot ? I hope to hear your review again.

Many thanks~

[mikkowilson]

Just a little clarification:
The Steadicam Pilot does NOT have a tilting stage at this time.

It does however have a telescoping post, and yes, the gimbal of course is adjustable (moves on the post), as with all Steadicam Gimbals. - That combination gives you a huge amount of balancing options! Check out thes photos:
Short sled: http://www.mikkowilson.com/photos/SteadicamNAB07/pages/IMG_9562.htm
Long sled (high camera): http://www.mikkowilson.com/photos/SteadicamNAB07/pages/IMG_9564.htm
Long sled, low mode: http://www.mikkowilson.com/photos/SteadicamNAB07/pages/IMG_9566.htm
That's the same camera & configuration in all those photos!

- Mikko

[Ing Poh Hii]

Thanks a lot Mikko for the clarification & nice photos :).

is the tilting stage a kind of add-on device to Pilot or it is included in the package once it ships (i haven't hear anyone own it yet so I assume it is still in production)..

thanks@@

[Ing Poh Hii]

Mikko, do you have any picture of the tilting stage from other rig ? I am wondering how does it look like. Thanks++

[mikkowilson]

You can see the tilt-rails on the Steadicam Ultra2 stage here: http://www.mikkowilson.com/photos/SteadicamNAB07/pages/IMG_9925.htm

Some better pictures of the tilt-head on the Ultra2 can be seen here: http://www.tiffen.com/userimages/SteadicamUltra2_0407.pdf - notice the 2 pictures at the top right of page 4 showing the tilt range.

All the bigger Steadicams ($20,000+) come with tilt-stages as standard. They arn't available for the lighter rigs (Flyer and Pilot).

A tilt-stage is something that is very much built into the Steadicam - though it is possible to add one later to the models that support it, but it's not that common. It's something that you use to set the angle (tilt) of the camera on the post before the shot, then do a quick re-balance and performs the shot/s. It's not anything that can be adjusted mid shot.


- Mikko

[Ing Poh Hii]

Thank you very much Mikko, I learn so many new stuff fro you all today, thank you :) :) :).

So no tilting stage for Pilot, in fact i don't think it is practical for event videography as well (as it's not anything i can do easily at mid shot).

[dogman-x]

Mikko, I notice from this picture here:
http://www.mikkowilson.com/photos/SteadicamNAB07/pages/IMG_9566.htm
that you are using the Pilot in low mode "inverted".

In other words, both the camera and the monitor are upside down, so you see fine on the shoot, but have to rotate the image 180 degrees in post.

If I have this right, then what do I need to enable this configuration? The Flyer kit seems unnessary since the camera is upside down.

[mikkowilson]

In that photo I'm in "quick n' dirty low mode" - where in deed you simply slide the gimble a little on the post to make the rig top heavy, then flip it over so everything hangs upside down.

This works just fine with film and progressive video - interlaced video can have issues depending on how you flip it.


There are a couple of tools to do this job "the right way"


One is to use a "low mode cage", take a look at this picture:
http://www.mikkowilson.com/photos/flying/images/discussing_low-mode_shot_SOA2004.jpg
The camera is mounted in a very sturdy cage - which in this case is also a "weight cage" to add weight to a light camera for practice - but lighter cages just for low-mode are available.

The other (and normally better) option is to use a "low mode clamp" which looks like this:
http://photos.mikkowilson.com/LowModeClamp.jpg
It simply clamps to the handle of your camera and has mounting threads in it allowing you to mount the camera "upside-down" to the stage of the Steadicam, then when you flip the rig over to low mode, the camera "hangs" from this camp the right way up under the stage.


Either way, when you flip to low mode, the angle of the gimbal handle can interfere with the stage, and raise the rig up again.
To get the rig lower and provide better clearance, a "F-Bracket" is used:
http://photos.mikkowilson.com/F-Bracket.jpg
The post of the arm goes where my pinky is into the clamp, which then "flips" the gimbal over, again allowing it to "hang" down. In this photo the sled itself is the "right way up" in the stand, and you can see the clearance issues, but once the rig inverts to low mode, there is a LOT more space there thanks to this bracket.

You can see the F-Bracket in the first picture on the bigger rig too - it's harder to spot because it's black, but it's the piece directly under my chin with the bright colored bits of tape on it. :)

Of course after you've done all this work to get the rig upside down properly, and the camera "hanging" the right way up, the last thing left to do is to flip the monitor, or the image on the monitor. - Luckily practically all Steadicam monitors can flip the image, and they can all flip on their mount too - so you can choose the best method for any particular situation.

- Mikko

[dogman-x]

Mikko - Thanks!!! Awesome response.

So now I'll be ordering the Pilot (large monitor version) along with an F-Bracket and a stand.

Any recomendations on the stand? Tiffen says "The Optional SteadiStand™ or Turtle Base “C” Stand is required for Steadicam balance and operation". I can't find any literature or pictures of either stand and they both list for just under $200. Is there one that you would recommend over the other? Are there other stands available?

I'm assuming that the stand is for the sled only, and that you would lay the arm on a table or chair when you're not using it.

Thanks again.

[mikkowilson]

The system comes with the "Dock" which is the piece that the sled sits in (you can see it to the right of my 3rd picture). The dock has a yoke for holding the sled normally (where it is now), a "balancing stud" used to set the rig on [emulating the arm] to balance so you don't have to carry it to balance. There's normally a hole or two for the Allen Wrench for the gimbal, and a spot to hang the arm too!

The Steadicam Pilot dock:
http://www.mikkowilson.com/photos/SteadicamNAB07/images/IMG_9918.jpg
You can see the yoke on the left (with the safety pin open), the balancing stud on the right (where the arm is hanging) and a hole just to the left of the stud for the Allen wrench.


The stand can be any regular Medium duty lighting stand (that's why it's not included, many people have them already).

The "Steadi-Stand" is a good strong stand that collapses to a very compact size for transport.
The "C-stand" is a standard Matthews Turtle-Base C-stand.
You can either order from Steadicam, or you can buy a C-stand at your local grip store, or even on e-bay :)


If you are getting low-mode gear, I'd recomend simply getting the "low-mode kit" It includes both the F-Bracket and the Low Mode Clamp. (I'm assuming you will be flying a camera with a handle?)


- Mikko

[dogman-x]

Mikko - Thanks again! This is exactly what I needed. I'll see if I can pickup a used stand somewhere.

As for the handle clamp, its not really necessary since flipping in post is not an issue for me. Also, if you're using a long sled in "quick n' dirty low mode", like your picture here:
http://www.mikkowilson.com/photos/St...s/IMG_9566.htm (http://www.mikkowilson.com/photos/SteadicamNAB07/pages/IMG_9566.htm)
then it doesn't look like the gimble will interfere with the stage, but I might be missing something here.

Ing Poh Hii - Check out these batteries:
http://www.thetwistergroup.com/store/customer/product.php?productid=LIC-970G%20D40675&source=nx
For $62 each, these will go a long way with your XH-A1, and you won't have to re-balance your rig for different sized batteries.

[Ing Poh Hii]

Thank you dogman-x, I thought of buying couple of same size battery after replying you, I am looking at the local shop here, not as cheap as the website you gave me, but after the shipping charge, it is more or less the same so I will get one here first.

thanksss~

[mikkowilson]

dogman;
You are right that neither part of the Low-mode kit is necessary, just often preferred.

In long mode like that, the post in deed doesn't interfere with the stage. However if you have a heavier camera, and not as much counter-weight then the stage gets closer to the gimbal and can get in the way.

Also, by flipping the gimbal, you actually move the sled lower in relation to the bottom of the arm too. It is useful if you want to get even lower than normal low-mode. In that photo you point out, the camera is about as low as it will go, however with an F-Bracket, the camera could rest on my foot, and almost touch the floor! If you need that extra 6-8inches, then the F-Bracket is *really* useful :)

Again, not something commonly used for Event DV, but great for film-making, etc..

- Mikko

[dogman-x]

Thanks!!!

[strangways]

I've got a Manfrotto 420 stand/boom, and I was wondering if its minimum height (131cm) is so high that it will cause problems with mating the arm to the sled to start flying it.

If it is too high, the shorter stands I have are all pretty lightweight, so in looking for something else, does the "Steadistand" by any chance fit inside the "back pack transporter" that is included with the Pilot?

[dyedudedelux]

hey,
its been really interesting following this thread since i too am eagerly awating the pilot to be released.

the one thing that hasnt been discussed at all i think is the vest.
i've seen a lot of pictures by now and every time i see the vest i ask myself if it's really durable and if the velcro is a good idea.

i mean, it's important to configure the rig to ones exact specifications and desires so where are the fastening belts that i adjust once and then just snap together?
with velcro straps the vest will be worn differently every time you put it on right? thats not a good thing right?

i just tried this rig out a week ago and the vest was really nice. http://www.abc-products.de/english/HM_Gforce_pro_e.htm
i haven't tried the pilot vest yet but i am a bit sceptical..

prove me wrong people!!

any news on the release date?

thanks!

chris

[mikkowilson]

i just tried this rig out a week ago and the vest was really nice. http://www.abc-products.de/english/HM_Gforce_pro_e.htm


Heh, you think that vest is comfortable, wait until you try a Steadicam one!


You do raise a really good question though. I too was rather skeptical about the velcro-only design. I use an EFP vest, which doesn't have to be re-adjusted at all when you put it on, it's always the same adjustment.

But the Merlin/Pilot vest is really really light! And the rigs it's flying are also really light, so you don't have to have such a strong and "beefy" vest to support it.

I'm used to the "hooks" of my EFP vest, and the Snap-Clips of the Flyer vest, so I was expecting the Pilot vest to be slower to put on, but it's really not at all. You just pull it on, pull the velcro straps across - tightening them as you do - and press them down and you are done! You just pull it on snugly and that's it! The system is so light that you really don't have to be super finicky about how exactly the vest is fit. Just snug it up and you are good to go.

When first trying the Pilot (and especially with the Merlin) I tried to imagine doing it in a bigger vest, and it felt like a rather silly idea. The rigs themselves are so light and nimble, that a lightweight sleek vest compliments them very well.

The only "problem" is the noise the velcro makes when you take it off .. but then again, the clips make a "snapping" sound too.

Also, to compare to the larger current Steadicam vests; they all use ratchet buckles like you'd find on ski-boots or Rollerblades. These too ratchet in and adjust as you put them on. Again, you learn really quick how tight to pull them as you pull on the vest and then "re-adjusting" isn't an issue.


The largest issue with pre-adjusting a vest is always the length of the vest anyway, and that's done at the central spar, and doesn't change at all when you take the vest off. Also of importance is pre-setting the "fixed" positions of the straps so that they have just the right amount protruding at the front to fasten, but again, those sides of the straps don't move when you take off the vest.


In fact, I find that the Pilot/Merlin vest, like the bigger vests, actually sits better, because that final little trip to make is just the right amount of "snug" happens automatically as you put it on. If I put my EFP vest on after a big lunch, I might have to take more time to actually make it a little larger, but the Newer vests just tighten up the right amount every time to my liking.


- Mikko

[sugahsean469]

Reading this thread: I don't regret getting a Merlin Arm/Vest combo first, but boy that Pilot is only a couple hundred more, if I could've just waited just a littler longer!!

Oh well.

When the time comes where I can truly afford to upgrade, and I feel my skill at
achieving balance along with getting good shots need to move up, I'm going straight to the Flyer.

But back to the last comment, I agree w/Mikko: The Merlin/Pilot vest is "just right" for the rigs it was built for. Lean, yet very strong.

[dyedudedelux]

Well mikko,


That about did it for me.. I'm convinced! :)

All i need to do now is wait for the goodness to be released... Living in Germany it's going to be a bit longer I suppose but I'll just have to live with that. OR I could spend some extra money I don't have lying around anyway and fly to the states for a day to pick one up.. Oh and I'm gonna also need a hot blonde Steadicam professional Operator and EXPERT to teach me.

Right.

Well that's all settled then.

Thanks for the info!

chris

[dogman-x]

Any news on the Pilot release date?

[mikkowilson]

The Pilot is out and shipping!

Someone has allready talked about having recived theirs here: http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?p=762133 [post#31]

- Mikko

[dyedudedelux]

oh.. one more question:

how many AA batteries does the pilot take with the the aa-model? any idea how long it would last? AB and VL batteries are quite expensive. 2 batteries plus a charger... thats another 1000 bucks at least!

thanks!

[dogman-x]

I've ordered the Pilot ($245 for a bigger 16:9 monitor? Yes please!) with the AA battery mount. I'll be testing it upon arrival to see how long a AA set power the monitor, and will post results here.

I'm thinking that it won't run on rechargeables... 8x 1.5 volts (alkaline AAs) is 12 volts, but rechargeable AAs are 1.2 volts, so, you'd need 10 NiMH AAs for the Pilot or Co-Pilot, right?

So it looks like 8 AAs for 12 volts total (1.5 volts each). 1.2 volt NiMH rechargables may work if the monitor can go down to 9.6 volts. Still awaiting results from Strangways. Otherwise we're stuck with 1.5 volt AA expendables.

I'm also wondering if 4 RCR-V3 Lithium rechargables would work. These are 3.2 volts and are the same size as 2 AA batteries. See example here:
http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=147_294_323&products_id=660&SP_id=&osCsid=4fc7da5b99071e50c9a0f949ff0a8ec8
Two sets of batteries (8 RCR-V3s) and chargers for the offline set (4) would cost around $150. It all depends on if the Pilot battery pack accepts the oval shape of a CR-V3 battery.

[Tom Plapper]

Does anyone know if a Nebtek Marshall monitor will fit on a Pilot? Thanks

[mikkowilson]

The pilot comes with a box for 10 (or was it 9) AA batteries, allwoing the system to run on Rechargable AA cells.
Included is a "blank" "battery" that you drop in to use the right amount (8?) of regular non-recharageable batteries.

I can't recall those numbers off the top of my head, but the system is designed and comes with all you need to use either rechargables or regulars without touble. - Those Steadicam engineers think of just abotu everything!


And yes, any small monitor can be mounted on the Pilot/Co-pilot. It has a standard 1/4"-20 threaded mount for the monitor.

- Mikko

[strangways]

I just got word that my Steadicam Pilot has landed at Kingsway Motion Picture in Toronto, and I'll be going to pick it up tomorrow.

Photos, info, comments, and answers to any questions will arrive here soon after!

[gota]

http://www.eyelogy.com/pilot/a3.jpgPilot arrived in Japan.
I'm pretty good.

[strangways]

It figures that my Pilot would arrive when I'm really busy with lots of other things! That being said, I do have a few 'first impression' notes to share:

*) Doug from Kingsway Motion Picture in Toronto is a good guy to deal with. Very helpful.

*) Ships in a really huge backpack that has custom-cut foam for all the parts.

*) Includes QuickStart guide, VHS training videos in PAL and NTSC, from the Steadicam SK (they must have a warehouse full of these, they also included them with the Flyer) I would highly recommend downloading the Flyer manual from steadicam.com for more operating and training instruction.

*) Works with the low-mode kit F-bracket from the Flyer (same mount size)

*) Feels a lot like a Flyer in operation.

*) Easier to dynamic balance and with more post height adjustability than the Flyer. The extendable post is a great way to change drop-time (bottom heaviness) easily while sill wearing the rig.

*) 5.8" LCD is quite nice, but typically limited viewing angle. Has 4:3/16:9/wonky anamorphic/two zoom level modes, brightness/contrast/tint/backlight, horizontal/vertical flip. Overall, I'm happy with it, and would HIGHLY recommend it over the smaller Co-Pilot monitor!

*) Uses 10 AA batteries (with the AA pack option, of course) which supplies 12 volts with NimH batteries. Alkalines give 15 volts, which is fine for monitor, but you can order 2 dummy batteries separately if your camera can only take 12 volts. Haven't tested runtime yet.

*) Vest is comfy, and supports the rig just as stably as the Flyer vest supports that rig. Just be careful when you undo the velcro first time out of the package. I ended up with several velcro straps detached from the hip pads and it took a while figuring out how it was all supposed to go back on.

*) Has a velcro "arm keeper strap" on the vest, that so far I haven't figured out a good way to hold the arm with, but it is a great place to tuck the allen wrench, which is needed only for adjusting the gimble on the center post.

*) My girlfriend laughed at me and took pictures when I tried it out at her house, and not having a camera handy, flew a phonebook all around the kitchen.

I hope to take a few pics, compile some notes, tips, and a review when I get some more time. Also, to anyone who is interested and is in the area of Hamilton, Toronto, or somewhere in between, I'd be happy to arrange test flights for other people.

I was only willing to take the plunge into owning the Pilot because of Colin Akoon's generosity in letting me and others try out his Flyer at a DVXuser group meeting years ago at Creative Post. I would be happy to pay that kindness forward to others.

[dyedudedelux]

Hey there...

Does anyone know if a "V-Mount to NP Adapter" would fit and work with the VL version of the Pilot?

one like this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=ProductDetail&A=showItemLargeImage&Q=&sku=204171&is=REG

Thanks!

[mikkowilson]

Hey there...

Does anyone know if a "V-Mount to NP Adapter" would fit and work with the VL version of the Pilot?

one like this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=ProductDetail&A=showItemLargeImage&Q=&sku=204171&is=REG

Thanks!

I presume you want to use NP1 batteries on your Pilot with a V-mount plate? Yeah, that should work just fine.

- Mikko

[dyedudedelux]

Great! Thanks a bunch!

[strangways]

I've been too busy having fun and learning that I didn't time the battery life of the 10 alkaline AAs I used to power the 5.8" 16:9 LCD, but I can say that when they start to die, they do so in an interesting way.

First, the colour desaturates. Then it'll flick completely to black and white. Switch it off and back on again, and it'll be colour for a while before a flicker back to B&W. Really push it, and it starts blacking out at regular intervals.

My first thought was that the monitor was failing... but cooler heads prevailed, batteries were tested then replaced, and all was well!

[mikkowilson]

Yup, it's pretty common for Steadicam monitors (and other monitors too) to fade & drastically loose quality before shutting down complelty on a low battery.

This is paticulalrly usefull if you are in the middle of a live event/shoot where you have time to react to your battery dying and hold out untill a suitable battery change moment.

I was in the middle of a concert a while back when my (production's, I wasn't familer with it, nor did it have a meter) battery started to die. The camera was on Triax power from the truck so it wasn't affected. But suddenly my (CRT) monitor dimmed mid shot, it didn't affect the shot but it was a great way to tell me it was time to change the battery at the next break - I continued out the song and was able to change my battery to the spare I had at the side of the stage between songs. If the monitor had just gone black on me, I'd have been in a world of hurt.

- Mikko

[dogman-x]

I've been too busy having fun and learning that I didn't time the battery life of the 10 alkaline AAs I used to power the 5.8" 16:9 LCD ...

Alkaline AAs are 1.5 volts each, so 10 alkaline AAs would be 15 volts. I know they have a spacer to allow 8 alkaline AAs. I thought the 10 AA configuration was for the 1.2 volt NiMH rechargable batteries.

Will running the pilot's monitor at 15 volts do any damage?

[mikkowilson]

Nah, should be fine. Professional Broadcast li-Ion batteries (like the IDX E10s [recomended by Tiffen/Steadicam]) are 14.8v

The spacer to use only 8 AAs is simply to save on the number of batteries you need. :)

- Mikko

[dogman-x]

I'm fairly set on buying the Pilot. I'll be using my friend's camera for production, but I'd like to use my own camera for practice. My camera is only 1.3 pounds.

It would be nice if I could get the stage weight with my camera up around 5 lbs, and then add the bottom weights for inertia. This way I'll be able to practice with the full inertia of the production setup.

Is there a way to do this with the weights that come with the Pilot? If not, is there another economical solution? Could I design something out of plywood and dumbell weights?

How many weights come with the Pilot? How much does each one weigh? Can I purchase additional weights?

Any help appreciated.

[strangways]

The Pilot ships with 4 'mid' weights and 4 tapered 'start/finish' weights, for a total of about 1.5 pounds.

The mid weights are about 4 ounces, and the start/finish about 2 ounces. I'm sure Tiffen has exact specs.

The weights are the same type that come with the Merlin, and I THINK you can order those separately.

With a 4-4.5 pound camera setup the monitor and AA battery unit counterbalance perfectly, without needing added weights.

I will add bottom weight only for inertia, and if the balance point like that requires the gimble to be be too low for my taste, I add some weights to the stage up top.

If you want to practice what a heavier camera would be like, you'll want to add weight to the stage, but keep it sized to the dimensions of a camera. In other words, if you have weights sticking out front-back or side-side beyond the size of your friend's camera, the inertia will also be different.

When mounting a DVX100 to the Flyer, a gentleman I knew need to add more weight as the camera was too light. He got a 5 pound weight plate (the disc type that go on the end of bars, not sure of the terminology) and padded both sides of it, and filled in the center hole a little.

Then, he got a longer 1/4" 20 pitch screw to go up through the camera plate, through the center of the weight, into the bottom of the camera, so the weight was snugly mounted right underneath the camera.

Another option: google
Steadicam "Practice Cage" and take a look at those.

[dogman-x]

Thanks strangways! This is exactly what I needed.

Looks like I'll be going to Home Depot and looking for common things to use in uncommon ways. Won't be the first time.

I did Google Steadicam "Practice Cage". Lot's of clever solutions. Seems like I'm not the only one looking to use a small mini-DV camcorder for practice. Perhaps Steadicam/Tiffen could offer somthing to address this in the future.

[dogman-x]

Excellent report on Steadicam Pilot (5.8" 16:9 LCD) using AA rechargable batteries:
http://dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=112777

Bottom line: over 4 hours of continuous LCD monitor use on 10 AA rechargables.

[dogman-x]

Just ordered my Steadicam Pilot AA today along with the SteadiStand ...

[strangways]

Fantastic "Getting Started" Q&A:
http://dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=115235

[gco]

From within the above thread---Pilot How To Video:
http://www.steadicam.com/images/content/pilotVideoCode.htm
Thanks Strangways!