2005Steadi-Newbies forum
Battery system choice for Steadicam rigs: NP1 versus Anton Bauer mounts
21 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Anton Bauer batteries follow industry standards and work with professional cameras like Betacam models and their adapters.
- NP1 batteries are significantly cheaper per watt hour than Anton Bauer equivalents and can be purchased at a fraction of the cost.
- For lightweight cameras like the XL2, the V25/35 Steadicam rig with NP1 batteries is a practical choice.
- For heavier professional cameras, the Gold system with Anton Bauer batteries provides better performance.
- NP1 batteries are available in both NiMH and NiCAD chemistry options at consumer price points.
- When NP1 batteries degrade, they can be economically replaced rather than refurbished.
Depends on
- Specific recommendations depend on camera weight and intended use case.
- The discussion references equipment models from 2005 and may not reflect current product availability.
- No testing data provided comparing battery runtime or reliability between the two systems.
- Price comparisons are based on market conditions from 2005.