No Go for the EX3 and Steadicam Merlin

E

EIREHotspur

Well-known member
Pity as I didn't do my homework beforehand as regards weight maximum.
I liked the design and pricepoint of the Merlin and am not fond of the vests etc.

Looks like I will have to get an EX1 sometime in the future for Steadicam shots.
 
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yeah I have a pilot... and when flying the ex3 it's taking the arm almost all the way to it's weight limit. if you plan or flying with accessories you may need a bigger rig than the pilot.
 
Even with the new gimbal it doesn't seem to be suitable with the EX3 from what I read Phil.
Seems the EX1 is just under the recommended weight.

Interesting you actually are using it with the EX3 Radar.....when you say fly with accessories are you talking external mics, on board light or the HD?
Is it farily tiresome using it for reasonably long periods....I had intended staying away from the EX1 but to get shots with the Merlin I may have to keep an eye out for one.
 
OK, so you guys in the know, what is the recommended option for the EX1/3 with room for a few accessories?

So far we have the Merlin is too small, the Pilot is borderline, then what is the next option?

A stedicam is a future purchase I would like to make but I'd love to know what the appropriate option really is.
 
Ok After checking again on the Stedicam Merlin website page:
http://www.steadicam.com/merlinarmvest.html
The new Merlin Six-Ball-Bearing Gimbal employs aluminum and stainless-steel construction and precision, flanged, extended-race ball bearings in all three axes, which yields higher payloads and superb angular isolation. This robust new, all-metal gimbal, together with the Merlin Arm and Vest, now permits your Merlin to fly cameras weighing up to 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg).

The weight of my EX3 Camera with battery is 3.9kg.
The weight of the EX1 Camera is quoted as 2.8kg.

I'd like to know the answer too.....although I am not holding out any hope there is something rivalling the Merlin for design and price.

Hollywood figures are going to come "flying" at us. NPI.
 
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The Steadicam Pilot will do well for either camera.

The Steadicam Flyer will also work well with either camera, and will allow much more space for accessories.

- Mikko
 
So the Flyer is the better way to go if you can afford it? I'd rather spend near twice as much and get the right unit than half as much and be left wanting.
 
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