[Derek Hall]

I carry a couple of large clear zip-lock plastic bags so I can cover the camera when changing a card in windy/dusty/wet conditions. Zip-lock so I can keep the bags securely closed when not in use and therefore clean inside. The digital version of a changing bag I guess. There are a lot of flimsy things about the EX1 and EX3 casing; the low-budget camera excuse is only partly plausible.

Re. the mic holder, I’m using a Rycote (CAA?) adapter which mounts in the camera mic holder, and gives separation to stay clear of the lens when wide, and to provide much better shock protection. I’m using it with a Sennheiser ME66 which is 315mm long, and get plenty of clearance and noise isolation.

[Derek Hall]

David can you share what rails/matte box system you’re using. I have a nice Petroff 4×4 for my EX1 but there are a few minor compromises I’d like to overcome when I upgrade later this year.

[Derek Hall]

Hi David, all points noted and I don’t disagree with any of your summary. For a while I was using the Sony Z1 on a DS10 with Miller 3-stage alloy tripod – it was a pretty good match.

My present DS20 on the Miller Solo 1501 2-stage also works well, there’s no question that the head has plenty of capacity to handle the camera. I particularly like the light weight of this systems which makes it very easy for an OPC to shift set-ups even leaving the camera on the tripod. Yes, it’s a quick, easy set-up and the Solo legs get better the more you use them. For example I’ve found them much easier to set up than traditional legs and spreader for use in a vehicle and have been able to shoot on the Solo legs looking forward through the windscreen, through a sunroof, and out the tailgate of an SUV, all very successfully.

My only point of difference is that over the years I’ve always found I can more easily manage precise moves at long focal lengths when the tripod and head are up-sized and slightly exceed the standard technical match. (Like I say, might just be my arms aren’t steady enough.) Of course it’s a personal preference, not a technical necessity, but I like the feel and assurance of a sturdy support system.

For now, thinking ahead to the EX3/interchangeable lenses, my choice would be the 3-stage CF Solo 1505 with the Arrow 25. This is about twice the price of the DS20/Solo 1501, and nearly 1.85kg heavier but still comfortable portable in the field.
I should add there are other features that appeal to me, like the illuminated level and versatility of the 100mm bowl. (There’s a 75mm downconverter for the 100mm bowl).
But I like the look of your list and I’d be excited too.
Cheers

[Derek Hall]

I’d be interested to hear the the Solo/DS20 works with the EX3 and a 17x Fujinon. My instinct is that it would be too light, especially when the camera is fully loaded. Or you might have younger, stronger, steadier hands than me…

[Derek Hall]

I have trialled the Arrow 25 with Solo 1505 legs using a fully laden EX1 (camera, 1kg WA adapter, matte box, mic) and found it a very nice combination and smooth at long focal lengths. If I get the EX3, this is the support system I’ll use. The Arrow 25 was very smooth and allowed precise control at the long end of the lens. Currently I have the DS20 and although it’s a good head it doesn’t always hold for telephoto work.

[Derek Hall]

I forgot to say that this lens was released under the Century Optics brand, and Century has merged with Schneider.

[Derek Hall]

Don, thanks for the heads-up. We haven’t noticed any frame-edge focusing issues (yet) and my supplier hasn’t mentioned a recall (yet).
However I’ll do a test and also contact Century Optics to see what the deal is. I’ll post again if I find something to report, and let you know what the test yields. Cheers, Derek

[Derek Hall]

Have you considered the Century Optics W/A adapter? I’m using the 0.75 zoom-thru adapter and find it excellent.
It does weigh 1kg (2.2lbs) and if you’re using a matte box you need to make sure the frame is clear when at the widest, but it’s the best of the three options I’ve tried.

[Derek Hall]

Hi Lawrence,
It’s not so much a case of finding the right mics to match the EX1 camera, but rather finding the best mic for the situation.
You’ll find most people agree on the usual suspects: Schoeps, Sanken, Sennheiser, Neumann.
Visit a discount store and get a few cheap blankets to hang as sound baffles.
For more audio-oriented advice check out this forum:

https://forums.creativecow.net/forum/audioprofessionals#858442

Good luck

[Derek Hall]

Hi Philip,

What a great review, it covers all the main questions really well, thanks. In particular the ergonomics which seems to be a major issue with the EX1, in addition to some of the controls.

What surprises me a bit is that Sony must have known all along that the improved features of the EX3 are things we would have liked on the EX1, but no doubt it’s part of a marketing strategy to have two levels of the same camera and they know a lot of EX1 owners will upgrade after one year rather than after three years. Cunning.

Like you say, a bunch of is will be thinking hey I just bought an EX1, if only I’d known. I guess it gives us incentive to earn as much as we can with the EX1 so we can upgrade later in the year. What a great camera.

Cheers,

Derek