2008Steadi-Newbies forum
Weight distribution and cable routing strategies for the FlyerLE steadicam rig
18 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The FlyerLE has a maximum weight rating of 19 pounds determined by the arm capacity, and exceeding this limit prevents the arm from leveling even when the adjustment knob reaches its limit.
- An audio receiver can be repositioned lower on the rig (such as velcroed to the top of the battery) to adjust the center of gravity and allow for a shorter post extension without adding counterbalance weight to the camera.
- Audio receiver cables can be routed externally along the post from camera to monitor without significantly affecting rig handling, using thin supple cabling for at least the first 10 feet and small velcro loops to keep routing organized.
- Video transmitter antennas should be positioned vertically rather than lying flat to improve signal reception when the receiver is not directly above the rig.
- A backup audio recording device in the sound operator's kit provides insurance against wireless audio dropouts or interference, with backup camera microphone recording also recommended as a safety measure.
- When using wireless audio with a sound operator recording externally, a timecode generator should be used to synchronize the camera with the external recorder rather than relying on the camera's internal timecode.
Depends on
- The suggestion to move weight lower might help when close to maximum capacity but this effect is uncertain.
- The internal post structure may have limited space for additional wiring, making external cable routing the more practical option.
- Camera internal timecode generators are often unreliable and should not be trusted without verification.
- Budget constraints may limit access to higher-quality equipment like professional video transmitters.