2013Steadi-Newbies forum
Selecting a downconverter for Steadicam Master with Red One camera and choosing an affordable follow focus system
13 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Decimator2 offers a wide voltage range and HDMI output with scaling capabilities, with a 36-month guarantee, though replacement turnaround can be slow
- Blackmagic Design downconverters are highly regarded but used units require version verification, as older versions have narrow input voltage ranges and risk burnout with unregulated power
- Blackmagic Design offers a tougher casing variant that adds weight to the unit
- Used Analog Bartech follow focus units provide good value and reliability with responsive customer support
- Bartech follow focus systems paired with M-One motors from Loomworks may face service issues as Loomworks has reduced support for these motors
- Heden motor Bartech follow focus combinations may be preferable to M-One setups due to ongoing manufacturer support concerns
- AJA mini-converters are reliable options for downconversion in regular use
- The HDMI output on Decimator2 is output-only and cannot accept HDMI input from cameras
- Professional-grade HDMI to composite converters suitable for Steadicam use are scarce in the market
- Consumer-grade HDMI to composite converters exist but are primarily designed for indoor use and may not meet professional Steadicam requirements
- Replacement part delivery from distributors can experience delays due to stock shortages
Depends on
- No personal experience reported with most HDMI to composite converters at professional grade
- Loomworks motor support status was uncertain at the time of discussion
- Decimator2 and Blackmagic Design converters are priced similarly
- Older Blackmagic Design downconverter models have compatibility and reliability issues
Parts
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