Remote Zoom AND Focus control

[Blofelds Cat]

Coming from a broadcast television background, it goes against the grain to cover an outside b/cast event without adequate remote zoom and focus controllers on my pan handles.

There seems to be a variety of zoom controllers for the Panasonic DVX100 (looking at a Manfrotto model) but focus controllers seem to be so thin on the ground that I've been unable to find one that doesn't look like 'precise control' was not in the manufacturer's vocabulary.

Are there any among the readership who can recommend a reliable focus controller for the DVX100?

cheers.

 

[mikkowilson]

Hello an Welcome to DVXuser!

There unfortunaly is no electronic focus control interface in the DVX100 or DVX100a.
The DVX100b does have a focus control port. The best device for you coming from boradcast would probabaly be the Be-bob FOXI.

If you have an older DVX, then your only option is to try and find a mechanical solution - most of which I belive are more Cine than TV style unfortunatly.

- Mikko

 

[Impossible]

I'm only familiar with a focus controller for the DVX 100b... here's what I found out for that model (DVX 100b) just incase someone stumbles on this thread during a search for that:

Yeah, there are a few controllers out there... Look around, then visit the Varizoom website. For me, I opted to get the Varizoom VZ-StealthPZFI which is made exclusively for the DVX 100b. They also make controllers for the DVX 100 and DVX 100a, although they are limited by the restrictions that Panasonic built (or didn't build) into the camera design.

FYI, my controller here expertly handles the zoom/focus/iris/record/pause features. It also makes coffee. (Just seeing who is still awake). I also opted for a larger knob and the "throttle style rocker" instead of the "wide sweep rocker". On the end of the "throttle" (it's really a lever), I carefully added a 6in extension which gives me more precise control. Overall, I love it.

Personal note: They sent a catalog within a week after I requested it. I again shopped around, then decided to go with my gut feeling. I called, and the guy I spoke with (Steve?) was very personable and patiently answered my questions (even though he must have answered them a thousand times before from other callers). I ordered it and it arrived on schedule (less than a week). Packed perfectly, every part I ordered was in the box, as were the instructions and manuals for all the add-ons. Basically, I would say that the Varizoom controller was the best choice for my camera. I'm glad that I bought the DVX 100b, especially because I know that there are some great add-ons offered from some great third parties like Varizoom.

Now back to the regularly scheduled topic...

Bartender, get my friends here a drink... Me? I'll (hiccup) skip this round.
Matt