Mstone

Thanks for the info guys. We're talking about weight and distribution differences around the 10 gram range, so it's good to know that it would only be a small adjustment. Thanks again. Matt

When using a handheld stabilizer (jr merlin or glidecam), how much adjustment is necessary when switching lens, specifically small c mount prime lenses that weigh about .5lbs each. Most of the lenses weigh about the same, so when switching between say a 26mm and 50mm switar, would there be major rebalancing, or just minor adjustment? Before I invest in one of these stabilizers for my dvx100, I'm curious about versatility, and how it will work with some of the small 16mm and super 8 cameras I use for MOS stuff. Sorry if this question is really basic. I read through the archives, but didn't find anything. Thanks for the info. Matt Serrins

I've considered the flyer and smooth shooter, but unfortunately I can't afford either. And given the projects I will use it for (short films), it's really cost prohibitive to rent a dolly, build a skateboard dolly, or buy/rent a larger rig with a vest. Also, my project requires a fairly low profile. A full rig may bring too much attention. The merlin seems like the lightest handheld option, so I think I have to deal with fatigue. Maybe I will bite the bullet and use the in camera monitor but I could also run a rca cable down the handle onto my arm and mount a ultra light (4oz) monitor on my wrist. Not sure how much the cable would affect operation? Anyway, thanks for the info. Matt

Hi Rob, Thanks for the reply. I did a cursory search of the archives, but obviously not enough. I really do appreciate your reply and will read further. I'm also gonna try it out and see how it goes. Interestingly enough, I talked to Frank Rush at Tiffen/Steadicam, and he mentioned that it would be theoretically possible to mount a very lightweight monitor and battery pack where the weights sit on the Merlin. However, a mount would have to be fabricated for the 15/32 threads of the weights. Also, I assume the monitor would have to sit in line with the merlin itself, not off to the side? Maybe someone with more skill than I will create this accessory in the future. Anyway, thanks again for the info. Matt

Is it possible to operate with an external lcd in your non operating hand and an rca attached to the camera (not physically/operationally, but in terms of the balance of the rig itself)? Does this throw off the balance of the rig (at all, just a little, severely)? I'm considering the Merlin for my DVX100 and there are some situations where the on camera lcd is not really usable. Is this a suitable workaround? Thanks. Matt Serrins