FS7: Are there any replacement top handles that don't lose the functions?

[Duke M.]

To me the least attractive and most unprofessional parts of the FS7 and lens hood and top handle. The lens hood is easily replaced with a matte box. However, the top handle is another thing.

This ugly plastic looking top handle actually has several useful functions included.

There are several things I like about the Berky Versa handle:

https://cameradoe.wordpress.com/2015/01/07/berkey-system-versahandle-for-sony-pxw-fs7/



However, it loses functions as far as I can tell. Are there any 'smart' handles that use the guts from the FS handle?

 

[jshbckr]

To me the least attractive and most unprofessional parts of the FS7 and lens hood and top handle. The lens hood is easily replaced with a matte box. However, the top handle is another thing.

This ugly plastic looking top handle actually has several useful functions included.

There are several things I like about the Berky Versa handle:

https://cameradoe.wordpress.com/2015/01/07/berkey-system-versahandle-for-sony-pxw-fs7/

View attachment 97207

However, it loses functions as far as I can tell. Are there any 'smart' handles that use the guts from the FS handle?

I have (and love) the Berkey top handle. But no, there aren't any "smart" handles that I've seen. I assume they'd be awfully expensive if there were (start/stop, zoom, hold, GPS, smart hotshoe). Berkey also makes a horseshoe shaped top-plate that can fit around the native handle if you want more mounting options but want to retain the native functionality of the handle.

 

[olof]

I actually like the top handle and the functions it has.

I make a ½ cheese plate that works with the existing handle and can be used with many options including my VF/Odyssey mounting kit.

http://www.westsideavstore.com/index.php?p=product&id=101