Recomendations on goo Jib/Crane for the HVX200

[sick boy]

Hey Guys,

Looking into getting a jib/crane for my hvx200. As much as I would like something that gets high shots, I would rather something more for internal use, like the proam dvc50, which is only about 4 feet.

I have found a few things but not much that strikes my fancy. The proam is nice for the price but I was hoping for a little more ability in moving the camera, like its big brother dvc200 that has an additional lever for vertical movement. I thought the dvc50 with a remote control pan/tilt head controller, but those are out of my range for the ones I want (like the varizoom one).

Any recommendations would be great,
Thanks,
Tim

[Ted Spencer]

Check out the Dykortech Advanta-jib lite. It comes standard at a 4' reach, but is expandable to 7 or 10. It also has a remote pan/tilt head. The 4' model costs $2K.

http://www.advantajib.com/home.html

[wgzn]

i have teh 8' kessler crane and it works just fine.

[sick boy]

what do you guys think of the cobra cranes? Anyone have one?

You guys think it is smarter to go with the 2 model, that takes 25 pounds??

[mainstreetprod]

I like my Glidecam Camcrane 200. Instead of using your tripod head as a swivel, it comes with one (option on Kessler). It sells for under $500 (mine found on Ebay for under $300).
It is built like a tank, could easily handle a heavy 16mm film camera. Take
a section out and reduce it from 10 feet to 4 feet. Extremely smooth bronze bushings. Only drawback is it doesn't tilt as is, needs a pan/tilt head.

[sick boy]

thanks guys. I ordered a kessler 5.5 last night. I like them because their prices are reasonable, their service and site is top notch and very informative (the crane shipped out today and will be here tomorrow) and it uses bearings, which most lower end models dont, like the proam.

Thanks!

[DCERVENKA]

thanks guys. I ordered a kessler 5.5 last night.

Good call. I have the 12' Kessler and love it! I've had the crane strapped to the bow of boat going 25+ mph and it's rock solid!

Here's it being used indoors: 12' Kessler Crane in action

Once they release their Hydra-Turret I'll be in heaven.

[sick boy]

Ya, the thing I like the most is the options. The Cobras are nice but the extnesions get pricey and are limited. The Kessler I can slowly work my way towards the 12', then the fluid swivel and eventually the hydra turret. The hydra turret and the 5.5 in my mind will be gold because I will be able to get the most solid shots at nearly every possible angle without have to break my back in a steadycam or shoulder rig (in some ways, having this can replacement the steadycam except for obvious shots, like running).

nice work using it indoors.

If they can get the turret under $1000, then I think that will be the next big step, that is why I like them, they are really trying to help the little guy out.

[wgzn]

last i saw, the cobra uses cables and pulleys instead of fixed rods. rods provide WAY more solidity

[sick boy]

ya, I had not thought of that. also, the cobra is made of steel, the kessler aluminum, lighter and no rust possibilities if I get caught in the rain.