SteadiHub
2009Follow Focus forum

Preston focus control equipment availability, wait times, and motor specifications

17 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • Preston had minimal or no wait times for new orders as of 2009, including motors, MDRs, and HU-3 units.
  • The DM-1X motor is an updated version of the DM-1 with a slimmer profile and greater power output, priced around 3250 dollars compared to approximately 2885 dollars for the DM-1 or DM-2.
  • The DM-1X calibrates faster than the DM-2 motor.
  • Some lenses that did not feel particularly tight could not be turned by the DM-1X even after initial calibration, requiring the manufacturer to increase torque specifications.
  • Right-angle connectors for MDR-2 cables reduce cable clutter and organization challenges compared to straight connectors, though having some straight connectors available is practical for tight spaces.
  • Color-coded strain reliefs on cables, while useful for organization, can make cable routing more difficult than simple heat shrink alternatives.
  • LED lens diffusers on the HU-3 focus ring can fall out during regular use.
  • A system ordered in August arrived within a few days.

Depends on

  • Pricing information was not verified by the person asking and was based on quotes rather than confirmed list prices.
  • The DM-1X experience was limited to one production with specific lens requirements (Angenieux 12:1) and one operator's personal system.
  • The motor performance issues and subsequent torque adjustments were specific to one unit and may not represent general product behavior.
  • Cable connector preferences depend on individual kit configuration and specific working conditions.

Gear in this thread

HU3, MDR

Same gear or parts

  1. 2026Power loss on Trinity 2 / Artemis 2 with large cameras (A35, Venice): causes and battery solutions.DisputedFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  2. 2025Custom servo zoom controller for Tilta Nucleus system using Bebob Zoe housing and 7-pin LEMO connectorFacebookSteadicam operators group
  3. 2024Mounting Sony Venice 2 on ARRI Trinity with SAM-0 plate: build configuration and balancing strategies.FacebookArri Artemis Trinity
  4. 2023Mounting Preston MDR4 focus motor and Light Ranger iris control on an ALEXA 35 on the ARRI TrinityFacebookArri Artemis Trinity
Read the original threadAsk about this threadThe answer cites the archive