2007Sled forum
Clipper 2/24 sled selection and upgrade considerations for Steadicam operators
19 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The Clipper 2 with G-50 arm can handle fully loaded Varicam and F900 rigs without issues, though the arm operates near maximum capacity.
- A video distribution amplifier is not built into the Clipper 2 sled, causing monitor dimming when adding transmitters or DVRs; adding one costs approximately $400.
- The Clipper 2 features a single telescoping post section while the Clipper 24 has a substantially longer two-section post design.
- Upgrading to 24-volt capability from the factory requires purchasing additional components and labor, or a retrofit can be performed independently.
- The G-50 arm has a maximum weight capacity of 22.5 kilograms; using it with heavier 24-volt cameras plus additional battery plates risks maxing out the arm, causing lens height instability.
- The 7-inch 700 nits built-in monitor performs adequately but is significantly inferior to the HD UltraBrite external monitor.
- A complete Clipper 24 setup with Ultra vest and HD UltraBrite monitor costs approximately $45,000, while a U2 rig costs approximately $59,500 with additional features and new electronics technology.
- The G-70 arm costs $7,000 more than the G-50 arm and provides better performance headroom for film work with heavier cameras.
- For film work with fully loaded cameras, the G-70 arm is recommended over the G-50 due to capacity concerns.
- Lighter 24-volt camera options include the Arri 235 and Arri Lite, though many cinematographers prefer heavier models like the Arri 435 for frame rate flexibility.
Depends on
- Experience based on usage starting October 2007, limited long-term data.
- Some upgrade costs and specifications may vary by region or change over time.
- The discussion involves operators from different eras and with varying levels of experience.
- Film camera requirements and availability were specific to the 2007 timeframe.
- Budget constraints and financing considerations were personal factors affecting individual recommendations.
Gear in this thread
Parts
Same gear or parts
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