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Anyone using the Steadicam Merlin?
I searched and saw a post about the glidecams vs. steadicams, however I didn’t see any mention of anyone using the Merlin or any other “affordable” or “compact” camera stablizers.
So, any one using the Merlin or even the Steadicam Jr. and if so can you post any pro’s or con’s of this equipment? I would be using this gear with a Panasonic DVX-100, HVX-200 and possibly a Sony HVR-Z1U.Thanks for any help with this.
PHIL
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6 Replies
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We purchased this unit with our HVX-200 and have not been able to get it to perform satisfactorily. It almost seams like the HVX, when loaded with cards and a battery, weighs too much. I have not used it yet with a DVX, though I plan to in a couple of days.
I’m not sure I’m using it correctly, and you really need to plan on some “learning” time before you use it.
So, sounds really good in theory, and when we were able to steady the HVX on it, we got some cool shots. In practice though, it ain’t no “plug-n-play” piece of gear.
Or so I believe.
Tim Scarpino
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Tim,
Thanks for the info. Could you please let me know how the shoot with the DVX and the Merlin goes? The HVX might be to heavy for the Merlin, I’m not sure about the weight of the HVX + batteries + P2 cards + ??? is but according to the info on the Tiffen website
https://www.steadicam.com/handheldmerlin.html
the merlin can handle up to 5 lbs. Even, though the Merlin is not plug and play and after some more shoots do you think it will be worth your investment once you get more time with it under your belt?Thanks again.
PHIL
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Have used it sucessfully with a small Panasonic DVC 30. May I state that in the instructions it is stated, practice and more practice. Remember the first time you handheld a full size ENG camera ?
I met these people last year at NAB. They make it look easy. Used a Panasonic 100 no sweat. Its like anything else, the more you do something ( anything ) you will get better at it. Do not expect to take it out of the box set it up and be proficent in an hour, You WIll NOT.
It works for me
Thanks
Tom -
Tom,
Thanks.
I completely understand, practice and more practice, just like anything in life. Besides for the learning curve(s) nothing -
Nothing quirky I am happy with it
later
Happy Shooting
Tom
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I have been using the Steadicam Merlin with a DVX100b for about 6 months. It took about 2 days of serious work to get it dialed in and to become comfortable with basic moves but since then I’ve been totaly satisfied.
It’s critical that you get the initial setup perfectly balanced and you will contstantly be “touching up” the balance between shots but it’s worth the effort.
The overall build and quality are excellent. I travel with it on a regular basis and have had no problems. (I did get the carrying case with the foam inserts, but that was probably overkill.)
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