2013Cases/Carts/Stands and Transport forum
Comparison of Steadicam transport carts: Inovativ Scout/Echo/Ranger versus Backstage Magliner and TR-05 models
13 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Inovativ carts require more initial investment but offer superior rolling ease and require significantly less physical effort to maneuver, particularly on carpet and inclined surfaces.
- Inovativ carts feature dual disc brakes that provide reliable stopping power on slopes, whereas Magliner foot lever brakes may be inadequate for holding heavy loaded carts on hills.
- Backstage Magliner carts are proven workhorses with solid build quality and good service support, making them suitable for operators on tighter budgets.
- Backstage TR-05 carts collapse more compactly than Magliner models and offer better stability despite being heavier, with assembly taking approximately 2-4 minutes.
- Inovativ carts collapse more neatly and compactly than Magliner models, making them easier to transport and store when traveling by air.
- The choice between carts depends on budget, career stage, and specific job requirements rather than any single cart being objectively superior.
- Heavy carts with superior construction and braking can be easier to push and control than lighter carts with inferior wheels and braking systems.
- Some operators build custom carts from parts costing a few hundred dollars as a budget alternative to manufactured options.
Depends on
- Prices and availability cited are from 2013 and may not reflect current market conditions.
- Most comparisons are based on operator experience rather than controlled testing.
- One participant disclosed a business partnership with Inovativ, though stated personal purchase of equipment.
- The discussion focuses on Steadicam-specific requirements and may not apply to other camera support uses.