2005Follow Focus forum
Evaluation of used Seitz 8710A follow focus system versus newer Bartech alternative
21 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The Seitz 8710A dual channel system with Heden motors has proven reliable after ten years of use with no functional degradation.
- Battery packs for the Seitz can be custom built using standard components like 9 AA cells, with each battery lasting multiple days of production use at low RF settings.
- Setup procedure for the Seitz involves marking the starting focus value, allowing lens changes without losing calibration by simply repeating the procedure on different lenses.
- Custom battery packs built with 2700mAh cells cost approximately 50-60 euros in parts and can sustain 5+ days of shooting before needing recharge.
- Seitz systems are simple to service and repair due to straightforward internal design, making spare components like amplifiers and junction boxes viable backups.
- Range on low RF setting with the Seitz is described as exceptional for older wireless focus technology.
Depends on
- No direct comparison data between Seitz and Bartech systems provided by participants.
- Battery endurance claims based on limited personal testing, particularly for high RF settings which received less documentation.
- Custom battery construction requires technical skill to disassemble, copy mechanical features, and reassemble safely.
- Discussion took place in 2005 with ten-year-old equipment at that time, limiting applicability to current technology standards.
- Documentation for Seitz systems reported as difficult to find online.
Gear in this thread
Parts
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