What the thread found

• The Arricam LT is widely preferred for steadicam work because it achieves good balance after adding motors, wireless transmitters, and filters.
• The Panavision LW2 and Millennium XL are comparable options to the Arricam LT but require dealing with Panavision rental agreements.
• The 535B is flyable for steadicam but limits movement options and causes physical strain; running shots are typically not performed with this camera.
• The BL4 and BL3 cameras are considered difficult and uncomfortable for steadicam operators despite their lower rental cost.
• The Moviecam Compact and Moviecam SL are viable quiet options but the Compact can be heavy for steadicam flying and the SL may produce indoor noise and light leaks due to carbon body warping.
• The AATON 35 is quiet for outdoor sync sound work but has become difficult to source and some operators reported frequent technical issues with it.
• Complete equipped weights for modern setups range from approximately 33-36 pounds for cameras like the Panavision XL and 535B with full motor and sound systems installed.
• The Moviecam Compact MK2 is essentially a rehoused Arricam ST using the same movement and viewing system.
• Upgrading older camera bodies like the Moviecam Compact to current standards with new viewfinder, movement, and electronics costs upwards of 75,000 euros.
• The choice between cameras often requires negotiating movement limitations with production when using heavier sync sound capable bodies.

Depends on

• Regional availability varies significantly; some areas have limited access to premium camera rental options like Arricam or Moviecam.
• Opinions on camera suitability differ based on operator body type and experience; cameras deemed difficult for some may be manageable for others.
• The Moviecam Compact MK2 experienced video tap power supply issues in at least one instance when connected to dual battery mode.
• Cost analysis incomplete; some cameras mentioned have acquisition prices discussed but not complete rental availability or total package pricing in all markets.
• Discussion predates modern cinema camera options and primarily focuses on film-based 35mm systems from the 2000s era.

Parts

Low Mode

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