2007Steadi-Newbies forum
Comparing stabilizer systems for upgrading from entry-level rigs, particularly the Basson Blackbee versus alternatives like Steadicam Flyer and Glidecam V25
19 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
Note (as of October 2026)Curt O. Schaller, the developer of Artemis and Trinity, has no longer been with ARRI since the end of 2025. To our knowledge, ARRI currently has no dedicated team and no official contact persons for its stabilizer systems. In our view, the future of this line is uncertain. If you are buying new, get written confirmation from ARRI beforehand on how long service and spare parts are guaranteed. Have used rigs checked by the manufacturer before you buy.
What the thread found
- The Basson Blackbee can only lift more weight than entry-level systems but does not provide better stabilization performance without heavy modifications by the operator
- The Glidecam V25 and Steadicam Flyer are recommended as better upgrades than the Basson when budget allows approximately $6500 or more
- HVX200 with Redrock M2 adapter requires additional weights on the Glidecam V25 to achieve proper balance, particularly when using heavier PL-mount lenses
- The Glidecam V25 is reportedly more comfortable to fly than the Sachtler Artemis despite similar weight capacity
- Proper steadicam operation requires only fingertip contact with both gimbal and post, not a firm grip as shown in some dealer marketing materials
- The Sachtler Artemis DV Pro sled offers superior dynamic balance adjustments and additional features compared to the Steadicam Flyer sled
- Back-mounted vests on stabilizers like the Artemis feel less familiar to operators accustomed to front-mounted designs and may require adjustment time
Depends on
- The criticism of Basson comes from general reputation rather than detailed technical analysis in this thread
- Experience with the Artemis DV Pro sled was limited to approximately 15 minutes of operation
- Workshop recommendations and pricing are specific to 2007 and European locations
- The comparison between V25 and Artemis was based on brief hands-on experience with one system
Gear in this thread
Same gear or parts
- 2026Choosing between upgrading an older ProVid-2 kit or investing in a professional rig: workshop-first versus equipment-first approach for beginners.DisputedFacebookSteadicam operators group
- 2026Buying strategy for a 25,000 USD entry-level rig: used Artemis-1 with Flowcine X-Arm versus Rever-Evo Sled, and the case for learning on budget equipment firstDisputedFacebookThe Steadicam Group
- 2026MK-V Level horizon stabilizer: specifications, plate compatibility, price, and comparison to Wave.DisputedFacebookThe Steadicam Group
- 2026Repairing shorted BNC video lines in an ARRI Artemis 1 sled: interim workarounds and permanent solutions.FacebookSteadicam operators group