Lanternlock & Matthew's Mini Max make the perfect video light

Pretty cool, though as you say, it's $800. For 9' height with max extension of 9' it is rated at 15lb. Not bad at all.

But if you can do with 13lb at 9' horizontal extension or 15lb at 7' horizontal extension, you can always combine:

1) Kupo Master 40" C Stand with Sliding Leg - 10.9', 22lb - $130

2) Manfrotto Heavy Duty Boom - 9' 13lb - $150

or

Avenger D600CB Mini Boom - 7' 15lb - $121

3) Kupo Grip Arm Support - $65 plus Kupo 4 Way Clamp - $38

For a total of $354 or $383 which is less than half for almost the same thing. Now, I understand the "convenience" factor, though to be honest, with the set up above I don't see much difference convenience-wise. No doubt it is a nifty thing, and it's dedicated specifically to this task, which is great; but by the same token what is it's strength (dedicated purpose) is also it's weakness, because with the elements 1-3 above, you can have multiple uses (as many uses as a c-stand has, for example). So the question is, what is that extra $400 buying you? It may be worth it, or it may not.
 
I wouldn't be using a C stand to support a light armed out more than what you'd get from just using a gobo arm. Anything more (with non-purpose built equipment like the mini max) for me would require a 2k/reflector stand or a medium roller, for the wider footprint, with a menace arm or even a regular frame ear and some speedrail. That's still far cheaper. But the 3 RM legs and elimination of counter balance is definitely nice and I'm sure are time savers.
 
The Mini Max offers two things: speed and ease of use. One person can set it up even if they are a novice grip. I don't have to worry about somebody rigging a menace arm wrong and it crashing down on gear or talent. Plus it sets up super fast and since I use it all the time, I don't mind having it be dedicated for one job.
 
It's definitely a very cool piece of gear, don't misunderstand me. I'd love to have it. I just wish it was more like $400 than $800 :)
 
Personally, I have to thank you so much for leading me to the Lanternlock product. Ordering some soon, and these will make my life so much better
 
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