2004Follow Focus forum
Noise levels of the M1 follow focus motor and practical impact on film sets
22 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The M1 motor produces more noise than the Heden M28VP, but users consistently reported no practical problems on actual productions.
- Motor noise from the M1 becomes noticeable primarily during high-speed focus rack moves, which occur less frequently than slow creeping moves where motor sound is most critical.
- Sound department personnel on professional sets determined the M1 motor noise was acceptable compared to camera operating noise.
- Users reported no complaints about M1 motor noise across multiple film productions over extended periods of use.
- The M1 features snap-on pitch gears and versatile rigging options, though some operators found mounting more complex than Preston motor systems with PAM brackets.
Depends on
- The noise assessment is based on professional film production environments, not controlled laboratory conditions.
- Most noise feedback came from operators already committed to the M1 system.
- One operator expressed preference for the Preston PAM bracket mounting system over the M1 approach.
- The discussion does not provide objective noise measurements beyond anecdotal reports.
Parts
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