Compatibility and performance of Hedén M26VE motors with Preston follow focus systems

Gear

ZephyrCan I fly my Alexa or RED on a Zephyr?389

Master SeriesIs a used Master Series rig worth buying as a first big rig?191

BFDHow do I power my BFD receiver from my camera or sled?186

VoltCan I retrofit a Volt onto my existing sled or gimbal?168

ArtemisHow do I power my camera and accessories from an Artemis sled?166

MDRWhere can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?143

ModulusIs there a Modulus option for HD wireless video?141

G-70Will my G-70 fit my vest, gimbal or sled?126

FI+ZCan I control iris and zoom wirelessly, not just focus?60

HU3Where can I get my HU3 repaired, refurbished or repainted?60

CineLiveHow do I pack and case my CineLive rig for transport?54

G-70XHow does the G-70X compare to Pro Titan, Xarm and other arms?46

Trinity 2Is Trinity 2 SUP 3.0 firmware safe to install or buggy?46

Ultra VestWhich vest should I choose for my body size, comfort and operator type?39

2007Follow Focus forum

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

The Hedén M26VE motor is compatible with Preston follow focus systems without modification and works with the MDR2 driver.
Hedén motors use the same base motor design as Preston DM2 motors and are described as lightweight alternatives.
Preston DM series motors demonstrate exceptional durability, with some units surviving salt water immersion, impacts, and drops over ten years of use.
Preston motors with standard brackets require minimal adjustment time across different lens types, whereas Hedén motors feature an integrated bracket design that simplifies attachment and position adjustment.
Jerry Hill's PAM brackets can be used as alternatives to Preston's proprietary motor brackets and provide flexible positioning options.
Service turnaround for Preston repairs can take approximately one week when accounting for international shipping, while local Hedén service may offer faster response times.
The Hedén M26VE is noted as being particularly effective for iris ring control due to its ambidextrous design and ease of mounting.

Participants disagreed about whether modifications to the MDR are necessary for Hedén motor compatibility, with some uncertainty expressed about this requirement.
The discussion references outdated Hedén website information regarding motor compatibility.
Service experience varies by location, with international shipping times affecting repair turnaround for Preston equipment.
Cost comparison between systems was mentioned but not detailed with specific pricing.