2015Monitors forum
Transvideo monitor models and their suitability for camera operation and stabilization work
DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.
What the thread found
- The Rainbow HD comes in two brightness versions: 450 nits and 900 nits, with anti-reflective coated but non-bonded glass.
- The Rainbow HD is a 7-inch 16:9 monitor positioned below the Cinemonitor line with an Avenger level sensor that is not gyro-compensated.
- The Rainbow HD at 900 nits brightness performs well in direct sunlight without requiring a lens hood.
- The X-SBL HD6 and Cinemonitor HD models are suitable for steadicam and onboard monitoring work.
- Transvideo released free firmware updates for the HD6/8 Evolution and Starlight HD models, with ongoing development of the Virtual Horizon 3 wireless sensor and level display graphics.
- The X-SBL features a working internal level sensor but uses an older LCD panel with limited viewing angles compared to newer panels.
- Some operators prefer filling the black space below 16:9 content on 4:3 screens with data overlays like horizon line, battery voltage, timecode, and lens information.
- A market gap exists for a high-brightness 16:9 monitor at 7 inches or smaller with integrated level sensor, as current high-brightness Transvideo models only come in 4:3 aspect ratio.
Depends on
- The Rainbow HD's non-bonded glass differs from what some users requested.
- The X-SBL's older LCD panel limits viewing angles in certain operating positions.
- No consensus reached on ideal monitor size and aspect ratio for different working styles.
- Firmware development for level sensors and graphics was ongoing at time of discussion and may have evolved since.