2013Camera Stage/Donkey Box forum
Steadicam baseplates for ARRI Alexa camera series compatibility and performance
13 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Different ARRI Alexa models require different baseplate solutions due to variations in weight distribution and center of gravity positioning.
- The ARRI Alexa and Alexa Plus models can use third-party dovetail plates like Camera Positioning Systems or Cam-Jam conversion plates.
- The Alexa Studio model has a flat bottom and center of gravity positioned differently than earlier models, making it incompatible with some third-party plates and requiring the official ARRI baseplate for reliable performance.
- When using Alexa Studio with focal lengths of 35mm or shorter at faster movement speeds, the official ARRI baseplate provides better stabilization to eliminate vibration.
- Cinematic Precision offers a plate redesigned to accommodate both Alexa Plus and Alexa Studio models.
- A prototype baseplate by one designer achieved lighter weight and greater stiffness compared to standard mounting solutions by integrating the adapter directly into the plate design.
Depends on
- Discussion occurred in 2013-2014, so current product availability and designs may have evolved.
- Specific weight comparisons mentioned lack detailed documentation.
- Performance claims are based on user experience rather than formal testing.
- The prototype plate mentioned was not yet released at the time of discussion.
Parts
Same gear or parts
- 2026Eliminating vibration with the ARRI ALEXA 35 on Steadicam®: rigid mounting plate options to bypass the dovetail systemFacebookThe Steadicam Group
- 2026Swapping the camera between tripod and rig: the cheapest upgrade most operators never makeOperator practice
- 2026Operating a Steadicam® Zephyr without Volt: drop time, horizon control, and the effect of upper-rig weight distribution on balance.DisputedFacebookSteadicam operators group
- 2026Swapping an ARRI ALEXA 35 between tripod/studio and Steadicam® mounting: baseplate choice and fastest workflow.FacebookSteadicam operators group