HD monitor for 7D and EX-1R

Peter Reynolds

Well-known member
I'm looking for an HD monitor for my Canon 7D.

I found a used Ikan V8000 with just HDMI input for $700

I'm looking to buy a Sony EX-1R in December and I'm wondering if I can use the Ikan
monitor with it. From my research, it seem like I'll need an HDMI - HD-SDI cable or
something similar.

Does this make sense? The cost for a monitor with both HDMI and HD-SDI are very
expensive so I'm hoping this will be a cheaper alternative.

Thanks.

P.
 
Well, more research has revealed that there are solutions, like the Nebtech HDMI-SDI coverter box, but at $495 it's more expensive then getting an monitor
with both HDMI and HD-SDI. http://www.nebtek.com/proddetail.php?prod=408-HDMI-SDI&cat=46

More research is required, but another option might be to use the HDMI with the 7D, but use the component out with the EX-1R. Is that good enough quality
though for monitoring the EX-1R signal?

Again, any advice or thoughts anyone was would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Peter
 
Well. I guess I'm alone in having this dilemma.

I can only assume that people are fine with HDMI only and using it with their DSLRs

OR

They've got deep pockets and have shelled out for a top of the line Marshall with both HDMI and HD-SDI.

Decisions, decisions...

I'll be sure to keep you all updated on my final purchase.

P.
 
I cant add a lot but to check out SMall HD

even though I have an EX I have never hooked it up yet

I use component with the 5d and hdmi with the 7d

to me on a DSLR res is important in a monitor, less so on a small chip cam where focus is less crucial,
 
Thanks Sam. That does make sense. I need the resolution for critical focus with the 7D, so HDMI is important. But with the EX-1
it's more about framing, so using component should be fine.

It would be interesting to hear from someone who uses component with an EX-1. Is it acceptable resolution?

I've heard good things about the SmallHD. I actually just saw two demos on Vimeo.
Hands On http://vimeo.com/14871550
Walk through http://vimeo.com/14877193

Costs for Ikan/Small HD seem to be about the same. Around $1000 for HDMI only and $1300 for HDMI & HD/SDI.

The only difference being that if I buy Ikan, there are dealers here in Toronto. SmallHD I can only order online. As good as
the Vimeo videos are, with a purchase of that size I like to see it in operation for myself.

P.
 
Honestly - you are going to want to get the SmallHD. They have great customer service. Their products are getting better through firmware updates, and just trust me - they are great. I'm sure they have a fair return policy if you hate the thing.
 
Go with the small HD or Lilliput for a very cheap option. I cannot recommend the Ikan. I have found problems with the reliability of ikan.
 
The downers on the small HD are - BTW I have the DP1X not the new one

The screen is reflective - you need the shade and will struggle on a steadicam

The voltage input, check this spec, For the DP1x it is 12 exactly

I think the new one is 11-14 or wider

This is important if you use VLock power because you need a regulator in the mix

You may want to test the HD marshall monitor, with a transflective screen , but you are jumping up another price step

What I have done is ordered an SD Transvideo 5 inch for using in the sun - costly small and SD, but bright - for steadicam, no focussing

Generally I think SmallHD are getting thier sh1t together and are THE 'budget' solution

This thread http://www.steadicamforum.com/index.php?showtopic=12722 specifically dwells on brightness but you can read some comments on the Marshall

The SD transvideo is no good to focus, the HD transvideo is $7k !

S
 
Hi Clos.

I purchased the 5" Marshall monitor. It's really great. False colour and focus assist have been really helpful.

The downside is that it's a battery hog and only takes double A batteries. 4 double AAs are drained in just over a hour!

Luckily, 90% of my shooting is in studio so I just plug into AC. I've been looking at having an adapter installed locally
so the monitor will take Canon batteries, but it hasn't been necessary so far.

P.
 
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