Glidecam

A

Angelcyk

Well-known member
Has anyone had experience using the Glidecam? Pros and Cons?
Or has anyone had good experience and recommend using another camera stabilizer?
 
I own a Glidecam V-25, excellent system, if a little overkill for the HVX.
I had to add weight plates to the rig to fly the HVX.
My only complaint would be the vest is not terribly comfortable and the waist belt straps tend to get in the way of the adjustment nobs.
Their customer service has been friendly and responsive via email.
Unfortunately, they have no service centers anywhere near my location (PHX), meaning if I have to send it back for repair - I'm out of business for a few weeks.
All-in-all I'm happy with the purchase.
 
Unfortunately no. The HVX is just too heavy. It can handle the DVX (and similar weight cameras) __________________
Sérgio Perez
Macanese Director

What about the Glidecam 4000? Is the HVX too heavy for that?
 
I've used the Glidcam 4000 loaded up over the maximum rating (10lbs) and my arms got tired pretty quick. It has no problem with the weight, my scrawny arms do! It helps to at least have an arm brace or body pod to take the strain off your wrist. Once you practice a while with it, and get it balanced just right. very smooth shots are easily achieved.
 
i just got the 4k for my HVX. Like it so far, but set up is a total PITA, and I've yet to achieve what i'd call perfect balance it, but I still get some pretty decent shots out of it. especially when overcranking ;p
 
I Have an HVX on a Smooth Shooter VIA the GC 4000, I just bought the Smooth Shooter Vest. Im pretty happy with it. I would really recommend if you are going to do this, plan on getting the upgrade for the vest so you can use the two arm setup. However, It is very nicely crafted as it is, I just find the stiff/single arm is a bit limiting in vertical motion. I may just need some practice with it, it is hard to shoot tall people. I find that I end up Maxing out the vertical reach quickly, hence, getting bumpy video when the arm hits the max vert height. For Reference, I dont consider myself vertically challenged, (5'11")

The other con with the 2 or 4000 sled is that, IMHO, It is very easily twisted or bumped out of alignment. Dont plan on making quick mount-ups out in the field. The way it is designed, it is not very consitant due to too many adjustment points, (that are not truly lockable into any semi-permanent setting/position) therefore making setups difficult to replicate with accuracy. On the other hand, what do ya want for a Pro/Semi Pro rig setup for under 2 grand??. All things considered, Im very pleased.

MagicCat


P.S. Even if you never really use it, youll look REALLY cool and most of your clients will be quickly impressed with your MacGuyver-like appearance :).
 
thanks magic cat! I think you sold it when added "MacGuyver-like appearance"! : ) About how long does it take for you to set up your rig (smooth shooter)? And about how long is the range of motion vertically?
 
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