2005Steadi-Newbies forum
Selecting an appropriate stabilization rig for a university film program with budget and multi-camera requirements
21 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The Steadicam Merlin is suitable for cameras weighing 0.5 to 5 pounds and costs around 850 dollars, making it affordable to purchase multiple units for a program.
- The Steadicam Flyer accommodates cameras up to 15 pounds and costs approximately 8000 dollars with batteries and charger, or 7000 dollars without.
- Lightweight cameras such as the Sony DSR PDX-10 may require additional weight when used with the Steadicam Flyer to achieve proper balance.
- The Steadicam Flyer requires more training and practice time to master compared to the Merlin, but provides industry-standard operator experience.
- Formal operator training workshops lasting a week cost approximately 2200 dollars and are recommended, especially when planning to teach the skill to others.
- Students should demonstrate competence with basic photography, composition, and tripod operation before attempting to use stabilization equipment.
- Glidecam and Sachtler systems exist as alternative options in the same price range as the Steadicam Flyer.
- The Glidecam v25 handles cameras up to 13 kilograms and operates in a similar price range to the Flyer.
Depends on
- Advice is from 2005 and current pricing and product availability is unknown.
- The Merlin becomes fatiguing to operate for extended periods with heavier cameras.
- One recommendation to purchase from a specific vendor cannot be verified for current availability or authorization.
- The discussion does not provide detailed comparison data between the Steadicam and competing brands like Glidecam and Sachtler.