Stabilizers: Flyer vs Prolite vs Smooth Shooter

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erikbryan

Member
Steadicam Flyer vs Varizoom Prolite vs Glidecam Smooth Shooter

I recently said goodbye to my ancient (serial #55) steadicam jr.

I'm interested in a new stabilizer to work with my current DVX100a, anamorphic lens,and wireless mics.

I'd also like to use it for my future HVX-200 with mics and harddrive, flags, etc.

Discuss.
 
Thanks for the start Mikko. Have you used the Merlin? I know it's a different level, but I'm curious to know what you think of it.
 
I have tried the Merlin for a while at a tradeshow (including with a DVX). I haven't used one on a shoot.

It's a really really nice little stabilizer. Super light and very ridged (and EXTREMLY steady!). - Also greatly improved in these same areas over the JR

Did I mention I like it? :)

It will fly the DVX fine, and also a bare HVX - but no accesories for the HVX.
Perfect for smaller cameras and the DVX in "run & gun" mode.

It has actually been discussed quite a bit over the past couple of monthes, run a search for "Merlin" and you'll find some good stuff.

- Mikko
 
Steadicam Flyer clearly, by a mile (I own one). I've only tried the Hollywood Lite, but at least from visual inspection, neither the arms nor the gimbals of the copycat systems can compare. Spend the money for the real thing, and you won't be sorry.
 
Flyer rocks! used it extensively on my documentary and on the commercial I just shot with the HVX. New Coke sucks, go with Classic!
 
Ok, I'm going to get one now too. All the overwhelming positive response is pretty convincing. The F24 is alot pricier but you get the nice HD LCD monitor. Did you guys get that? I wonder if it's good for critical focus when mounted on the camera without the flyer.
 
Get the Flyer. Hands down. I have operated everything in Tiffen's line from the Ultra to the Flyer. The Flyer feels and acts just like the bigger rigs. I was less than impressed with the 7" HD monitor....the HD Ultra Bright is fantastic but not geared for the Flyer. For the stock Flyer flat panel I was very impressed. It's brighter than the 7" and MUCH easier to see out in the sun without the need for a hood. Of course there is always the higher res should help you with focus. If you are operating you should know your DOF anyway so it may not be a real problem. Always know the size of the sandbox you're playing in. :)

Hope that helps.
 
I own a smooth shooter, and it works great with my DVX. Never tried the others, tough. Waiting for HVX to shoot my new short film, and will most definetly shoot smooth shooter stuff. Excelent for follow the character shots. Needs a LOT of practice and balancing, tough.
 
I'll seccond that the Stock (non HD) Flyer monitor is fantastic. VERY birght and works great.
It does however have it's own special connector so it would require a special cable to make it work as a seperate onboard monitor.
The HD Flyer monitor is also very good. It's not as bright, but it will work with just about any normal video signal you can throw at it.

- Mikko
 
Mikko, do you think it's worth the investment of the HD monitor with the 24f or do you think it's better to just get the standard flyer with the SD monitor and not having an hd display. Or maybe even getting the Marshal 7" and using that instead.
 
There are diferences other than just the monitor on the F24.

As the name sugests, the F24 can also be switched to 24volt (in adition to 12volt)operation for working with 35mm cameras like the Arri 235. The Regular Flyer is 12volt only. The F24 is also cabled for HD, which the basic Flyer is not.

It is not practical to upgrade the basic sled to a 24v sled at a later date, though trading it in as part of the payment on a 24v sled would probabaly be possible. (or find someone to buy a F24 and trade sleds...)

My sugestion would, if you expect to need HD or 24v, is to get the F24, and then pick up the basic Flyer monitor as a spare/backup/for those bright sunny days. It's only $685 (MSRP) from Tiffen.


Also, a little promo here for those considering buying a Flyer.
In adition to EVS and B&H, check out: www.steadicamflyer.com - Peter Abraham who sells the rig, is a really great guy and has been involved with the Flyer from it's very early days (he flies the protopye arm).


- Mikko
 
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