2021From a Facebook group: The Steadicam Group
Switching from Transvideo to SmallHD monitors: brightness in sunlight, overheating, and balance impact
What the thread found
- Several operators switching to the SmallHD 703 Ultra Bright report better sunlight visibility than with Transvideo monitors.
- The lighter SmallHD monitor allows more flexible battery sizing for balance adjustment.
- Reflections on the display occasionally require compensation; mounting an Anton-Bauer battery on the monitor's rear provides good mass distribution.
- The SmallHD 503 is considered the best 5-inch monitor for low mode and for use on the ARRI Trinity.
- Operators miss the internal recording capability of the Transvideo Stargate but note fewer dropouts with SmallHD.
- The TVLogic F7-H Mk2 is cited as a low-cost, very bright, very light alternative suitable for daylight operation.
- Image delay on older SmallHD models was problematic; confirmation needed for current models.
Depends on
- Monitor choice depends on rig configuration, camera weight, and low-mode arm geometry.
- Balance optimization requires adjustment of battery placement and monitor mounting plate position.
- Daylight visibility depends on monitor brightness, coating, and viewing angle.
Parts
Same gear or parts
- 2026Choosing between Wave, Volt 2, and MK-V Level gimbals: performance in wind, rig weight, maintenance, and mode switching.DisputedFacebookSteadicam operators group
- 2026Lemo connectors on the ARRI Artemis sled: pinout, polarity verification, and powering low-mode monitors and Volt battery.FacebookSteadicam operators group
- 2026Finding a bright (1500–2000 nits) low-mode monitor with recording and SDI I/O to replace a defective Transvideo Starlite.DisputedFacebookSteadicam operators group
- 2026Vest drops: what lowering the arm socket actually buys, and what it costs at the topOperator practice