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2016Follow Focus forum

Performance and features of Betz motors and Heden M21VE-L for follow focus applications

What the thread found

  • The Betz motor delivers comparable speed and torque to the Heden M26VE and is noted for being particularly quiet during operation.
  • The Betz motor features a cable that runs flush with the motor body, creating a more streamlined setup with less cable protrusion.
  • The Betz motor has a gear that is screwed to the motor body, preventing it from slipping out during use.
  • The Heden M21VE-L is faster than the M26VE while having less torque, and is an ultra-compact design with double the torque of the original M21VE.
  • The M21VE-L weighs approximately 170 grams and is about the same thickness as the M21VE but roughly one centimeter longer.
  • The M21VE-L demonstrated reliable performance with large telephoto lenses such as the Fujinon HK series under demanding conditions.
  • The M21VE has a shorter distance from rod mount to gear compared to the M26, potentially requiring a dog bone adapter in some setups.
  • Betz motors are serviced only by the manufacturer in Germany.
  • The Betz motor pricing is approximately 2400 USD through Chrosziel.

Depends on

  • Limited field testing of the Betz motor at the time of discussion, with no comprehensive assessment of performance in challenging conditions like tight barrel spaces or cold temperatures.
  • User experience with the M21VE-L was limited to specific lens models and scenarios, not universally tested across all follow focus systems.
  • Pricing and availability information for Betz motors may have changed since 2016.

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