2013Monitors forum
Marshall V-LCD70MD monitor suitability for steadicam work and compatibility with gear
13 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- A display with 800 nits brightness is usable but struggles in direct sunlight and becomes difficult to read in variable lighting conditions, with performance improving above 1000 nits.
- An aspect ratio of 15:9 will letterbox the image on full frame sensors but is not problematic when using guide frames.
- A 45 millisecond response time is acceptable for monitoring video.
- Third-party V-mount batteries with 14.8 volt output and ratings between 7-20 VDC should be compatible with this monitor.
- Loop-through output allows a signal to pass through the monitor unchanged and should be selected as a module option for monitors requiring HDMI input.
- Screen reflections are less problematic in practice than they appear in product photos and may not require additional matte covers.
- The monitor's center of gravity is not centered on its mounting hole, which can create dynamic balance issues on some steadicam rigs without side-to-side adjustment capability.
- Removing the plexiglass protective cover on the monitor reduces reflections on very bright days.
- The digital level accessory offered by the manufacturer is of poor quality.
- Powering the monitor through the steadicam sled provides better protection than direct battery connection.
Depends on
- Experience limited to one unit of this specific model and testing conditions in Greek summer sunlight.
- Discussion includes anecdotal reports of Marshall equipment reliability issues but no comprehensive failure data.
- Brightness adequacy in direct sunlight remains debated; some found 800 nits acceptable with a sunshade while others abandoned 800 nit displays entirely.
- The blog with detailed test results was still in development at time of discussion.