Low cost, HD field monitor

[Bob Cole]

I like the 6.5″ Marshalls at about $1600. I’m sure a great sub-$1000 monitor is possible, but I didn’t get to test either of the models you mentioned. I did see some nameless monitors that were terrible in that sub-$1000 range.

I feel your confusion — just went through it myself. There are so many criteria, and you need to figure out which matter most to you. You need to clarify why you want a monitor. Is it for focus? Composition? Client involvement?

You would be very well-advised to try monitors out in person. A monitor could be perfect for one application and terrible for yours. For example, a studio shoot would be a fine place for a heavy, high-resolution monitor — but if you’re running around locations single-handed, you’ll want something lightweight. Powering options are another consideration; a battery can change the whole configuration dramatically.

For me the criteria were a reasonably clean image; optional pixel-to-pixel monitoring; light weight; reputation of manufacturer; flexibility of powering. Incidentally, I found that most mounts were too weak – I wound up buying a sturdy little Manfrotto ball-head which screwed into my camera’s hot-shoe.

Good luck and let us know what you find.

[Stephen Mann]

I am using the LCD4Video.com 7-inch HDTV monitor on my Sony Z1’s. They were $250 on the NAB floor, and once in a while you an get them for that on their site. The monitor is pretty good for what it is. Much sharper than the cheap “security cam” moitors for $150. It is missing some of the high-end features of the $1600 monitors, but if all you need is a larger screen for framing, then this is it.

Steve Mann
MannMade Digital Video
http://www.mmdv.com