5k - 6k Budget

escozooz

escozooz

Well-known member
I am going to be upgrading my production equipment in the next 2 weeks. Previously I had been working with a VX2000, a bestbuy tripod, and a some britek lights.

I am looking to spend 5k - 6k and so far this is my plan.

1) DVX100a - $3,449 (minus rebate)
http://www.evsonline.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=AGDVX100A

2) Bogen 501 - $649 - should I go offbrand for a cheaper fluid head?
http://www.evsonline.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=501525PKIT

3) Sennheister ME66 $479
http://www.evsonline.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=EVS&Product_Code=ME66K6COMBO


Total $4,577

These are pretty much the essentials for me. I am shooting some lo-budget music videos, events, and short films. Pretty standard stuff.

For the balance of my budget I am having a hard time figuring out what is important. I am going to eventually buy a system like the micro35 but I'm going to wait until they come out with the pro version and a cheaper follow focus system.

Possibilities:

VariZoom DV sportster. Although definitly not a pro support system its smoother then the 100% handheld shots I've been doing.
http://www.varizoom.com/flowcam/sportster_system.php

VariZoom DVRigPro. Much less expensive alternative.
http://www.varizoom.com/pages/dvrigpro.php

Chrosziel 4x4 Sunshade System. Worth it?
http://www.16x9inc.com/cgibin/eDatCat/169store.cgi?user_action=detail&catalogno=AC-440-01-DVX

tvONE 6.8" Camera LCD - portable alternative to production monitor?
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=276812&is=REG

What would be the best investment of the three? Or something else besides lights and wireless mics. (I will be getting this eventually)

I would love to hear any opinions. I don't want to invest in the wrong stuff.
 
I don't want to invest in the wrong stuff.
Click to expand...
I'm latching onto your last comment. The problem with having equipment you don't use is just that. Avoid buying stuff unless you have an immediate need for it. I personally would find more utility in a Sunshade and French Flag than a DvRigPro or a VariZoom but that's just me. I think control of lens flare and being able to use a Pola filter are among the first splurge items for a cameraman to purchase. The others, well, I've made my point.
 
What are your intentions for sound? I have the AT-835b and I couldn't ask for better sound w/ my DVX. and i'm picky, believe me. I also bought a mic stand w/ it that is good for what I need, and the total is cheaper than then ME66. Audio Technica mics are great, and not too expensive. Also I own the anamorphic adapter w/ the cinetactics matte blox, which isn't a great product, but it's a good product. Certainly worth the money when you consider paying over a grand for a piece of plastic.

I'm only replying because I know how tough budgeting is. I cut mine down from $11,000 to $6,000. And I have everything I need.
 
EVerythng you need is three days away, so deifnitely do NOT buy it until you need it. YOu may wish you had more audio equipment depnding on events you are doing. Things like wireless, Likewise for films, a boom or wirelss lav might be useful. Reflectors, diffusers, gear for soundman, on-cam light (if events = weddings/parties), headphones (sound isolating ones to avoid the DVXecho), mono pod, gels, filters, cables, extra batteries, wind socks, rain coats, a few hundred dollars in tape, stereo mic, iRiver or miniHD, need I go on ??
 
If you are looking for a matte box there is someone (not me) who is selling their matteblox for $250 on the www.redrockmicro.com/forum area (under Off Topic). Sounds like a great deal if you are looking for a cheap matte box with some filters.
 
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