DVX stabilizer choice...

R

reelmike

Active member
Does anybody have any feedback/preferences on a great stabilizer for the DVX-100a? Merlin? Glidecam? I've used the Merlin before and I like it, however, it was nearly impossible to balance with any adidtional weight (mics, etc).

Any thoughts? I'm looking to make a purchase within the next couple days before I head to Europe.

Thanks!

Michael
 
I agree that the Merlin is great, but only if you're bare bones on your cam. I had to sell mine because my setup got too heavy.
 
I've had my Merlin for about 3-4 weeks and really like it. It is tricky to balance and I'm still getting the hang of operating it, but even my newbie footage looks good to me though I still have problems with keeping the horizon level.

If you're headed off to Europe soon, the Merlin might be a little bit of a headache. I know you said you've used it before, but unless you have some significant experience w/ it, it might be difficult to get good footage if you're learning on the fly (pun intended). If you have a lot of time to practice when you get there, this won't be a problem.

If you don't need that silky steadicam "float", you might look at the DV Multirig or Spiderbrace that can help keep a steady picture but without the steep learning curve. I haven't used either one, but they might be a better idea for run-and-gun stuff if you are sight-seeing. I know the Multrig packs up very small.

A plus to the Merlin is that the gimbel is metal now, so you can add more weight (up to 7lbs or so). Of course, that doesn't help you carry it. I loaded my DVX up w/ a shotgun and a big battery last weekend for a wedding and could only operate it for a few minutes at a time. That's also something to consider if you're going to be carrying it around all day.

OG
 
i use the flyer and it's pretty tricky to use as well... i think they all are. If you want something handheld then go for the merlin...if your rig will fit. If not, I think the glidecam can handle a bigger load than the merlin. No matter what you end up using, YOU WILL HAVE TO LEARN HOW TO USE IT, you can't just take it out of the box and run around with perfectly smooth shots.
 
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