SmallHD DP4-EVF

mkfotos.com

mkfotos.com

Well-known member
Mine came in last Thursday (the 14th), but I didn't have a chance to play with it (albeit briefly) until last night, attached to my AF100.

The DP4-EVF is very nice. Operation is nearly intuitive, and the fit and finish is great (but for the EVF magnets which don't align quite perfectly; they still work well enough). Though I haven't had much time with it, I can see this getting more use than my TVLogic monitor.

Likes:

- 1:1 mode
- focus assist
- false color
- the two easily toggled function buttons

Dislikes:

- the eyecup does not fit me well at all, and even the stock AF100 eyecup is better; it also comes off much too easily

Wishes:

- naming of presets
- ability to change/store/retrieve presets through a computer
- SDI retrofit (which I believe is on the way)
 
SDI loop thru would be awesome, and another order from me. I am just not a fan of HDMI until they have a real locking connector
 
you guys are right , a real locking connector like HD-SDI is totally needed. An HDMI connection is to fragile for a camera rig that is constantly in motion.
 
It doesn't have an adjustment that I could find, on the loupe nor in the manual. It's in focus out of the box for me, but that doesn't mean it will be for everyone, I'm guessing.
 
I got a chance to email SmallHD and they confirmed - no diopter! They advised to google for a standard diopter. Was a deal breaker for me.
 
This is the note I got from them on the 28th... "Yes, the DP4 will have an accessory option that will include diopters of varying magnifications that will attach to the eye piece of the EVF. Unfortunately because of a delay in manufacturing, the diopters will be available about two weeks after the DP4+EVF itself."

It just makes sense to have an adjustable eyepiece on an EVF like the adjustment on the built-in viewfinder.
 
So far I've used the EVF twice, once with the AF100 and once for photography with the 5DII. Though it's a little OT here, the 5DII + 10X magnification + 1:1 + focus assist, with the EVF mounted on the hotshoe, and pointing almost straight up (kinds like using a MF film camera with a look-down viewfinder), was a jaw-dropping experience. The ultra-precise focusing I could achieve consistently even at f/1.2, where DOF was something around 1/4", was unparalleled. This thing is sweet.
 
I will have a review of the DP4 to be released soon. I received it earlier this week, and have done some preliminary testing.

Waiting on batteries, and some RCA Component couplers to test with an HPX170 using component.

EVF is great from what I've seen, and the actual monitor itself is surprisingly good, quality build, etc. Tested it with a Nikon DSLR, and Panasonic HDMI cam as well.

Good company, and really good customer service. Went with the DP4 dur to size and convenience, and targeted for framing and focus, and it is good at both.
 
Ours showed up as well last week and so far I'm pretty happy with it. Pulling focus with the DP4 is definately harder than using our DP6 due to the drop in resolution but is perfect for a B-cam which I believe is the intent anyway. We went with the $30 Zacuto 5DMII batts (and charger) and they work perfectly. There's rubber strips where the batteries slide in so it holds them in very tight. Overall, great value for the buck.

Now I'm just hooping they actually make a 6" or 9" 1080p monitor.... oh man...
 
Just received mine. Love the 1:1 punch-in and ease of use, but the contrast seems to be a bit crunched. Great as an EVF for focus/false color exposure, but wouldn't rely on it as a reference for what I'll get as a final image. Adjusting contrast does not address the issue.
 
dcarstens said:
Just received mine. Love the 1:1 punch-in and ease of use, but the contrast seems to be a bit crunched. Great as an EVF for focus/false color exposure, but wouldn't rely on it as a reference for what I'll get as a final image. Adjusting contrast does not address the issue.
Click to expand...

Some color adjustments will be part of the next firmware update. Let us know what you think. -reed
 
mkfotos.com said:
the EVF magnets which don't align quite perfectly; they still work well enough).
Click to expand...

Please let our Support team know about the magnets and it will be corrected. We are thinking about creating a couple of different eyecups. When you talk to support, let them know an eyecup design you like and we will take a look. Eyecups seem to be a rather personal item. -reed
 
also just got one.. impressive Peace of Equipment ..

but i was wondering.. how do you mount it? I have the Strong Arm but is there a Mount out there that acts like on an ENG Cam.. meaning.. you dont have to open a Screw.. it should work with Friction.. Funny but i could not find anything with Zacuto or other popular Brands..

Because i think there is definitly a Demand for something like this...
 
I just burned a hole through my DP4 because I flipped up the viewfinder to check on the hdmi cable. In guessing the sun was the culprit. Acted as a magnifying glass. Wasn't up for more than a few seconds. Very fragile, wish it had some kind of protection on it. The protective screen didn't do much to help. Anyone know if this can be repaired or under warranty? Or did I just flush $600 down the toilet?
 
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