The Merlin is a good starter Stedicam but does not include the vest or arm (The $600 base one). My friend has used the Merlin without a vest with the Z1U and HVX, he could do it but says its alot easier with a vest and arm. My friend has the stedicam system that holds 10-15 pounds (I forgot the name think it got discontinued), it took alot of practice and work for him to get good at it. Stay away from Glidecam, he has used them and says they are bad. I know other people have used them and have been fine.
