Development and history of Paddocks Radical Options, an alternative stabilization system built as an upgrade to the aging Steadicam Model 3/3A

2004Picture and History Archives forum

Development and history of Paddocks Radical Options, an alternative stabilization system built as an upgrade to the aging Steadicam Model 3/3A

22 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

Paddocks Radical Options emerged as a modernized alternative to the Steadicam Model 3/3A, which had not received significant upgrades for 12 years despite changes in camera technology.
The system incorporated design elements from multiple contributors, including a center post design, junction box, mounting brackets, and power supply innovations.
Many components from the Model 3/3A remained compatible with the PRO system, as it was initially conceived as an upgrade rather than a complete replacement.
The PRO system introduced features to the stabilization market including interchangeable super posts, gyro modules, standalone monitors, quick-disconnect center posts, and true 24-volt power systems.
Early adopters of the PRO system were operators who were dissatisfied with the reliability issues of the Model 3/3A, particularly with its unreliable monitor electronics.
The PRO system required combination with original Steadicam components during its early years, as the manufacturer did not sell individual parts separately.
Complete PRO system components including gimbal, arm, and vest were introduced later, creating the first fully independent alternative to the original Steadicam system.

Depends on

The account contains many person names which have been removed as requested, limiting specific attribution of design contributions.
The exact details of the business conflict between Steadicam and Paddocks Radical Options are not fully documented in this source.
The timeline and technical specifications of some component iterations are approximate or unclear.
This represents one person's historical recollection which they acknowledge may contain errors or omissions.