maxfischer

I know that some of you were discussing the MK-V before the Forum was hacked (grrrr), so I just wanted to restart the topic and share my thoughts.

I had been unhappy with my sled (not going to mention names), just an inherent design flaw, nothing that could be fixed. I felt that the solution was a thicker post. I considered 3 brands.

The first was the old standby, but I think that their sled had too many bells and whistles (ie. gimmicks), and not enough ergonomics.

The second was a low-volume, very expensive sled. I tried the demo, it was beautiful. I had a difficult time getting used to some of its unusual features, but I could see how it was a great evolution from what we are used to. Unfortunately, too much $$$.

So process of elimination lead me to the MK-V Nexus. I had heard good things, but was a bit afraid of buying a piece of gear that was made overseas and didn't have a local rep. But I took a chance, an Howard eased my worries.

As I wait for my sled to be completed, I've got the Nexus demo sled. Holy crap. First off, you could use it as a bettering ram if you wanted. It makes my old sled look like a toy! Rock solid, stays balanced, ergonomically perfect, simple electronics, 4-stage post (built in Superpost!), affordable, almost infinitely adjustable, beatifully machined/anodized, and oh, that monitor!

My first job with it was flying a BL-4 Evoltion with no video only top and Cooke S-4's. Ugggh. But the sled was flawless, no flex, no vibration. At first glanced I turned my nose up at the topstage, it seemed so primitive and simple. But if it ain't broke, don't fix it; it was easy to balance, and held that pig like a puckered sphincter.

The gimbal was perfect. Enough said.

I had no time to experiment with battery/monitor configurations, but it seemes very easy to adjust.

Last but not least, the monitor. I wasn't able to use it on that job (I couldn't get an image and later realized that it was in PAL mode, and simple fix). But once I got it up and running, it was great. Large, bright picture, easily-adjustable frameline generator, and for all of those that think that LCD monitors are 'girlie,' this thing is solid. It's suprisingly heavy, which I think is a good thing for both durability as well as balance. It seems like it is machined out of a large block of steel!

That's all for now, I can't wait to get my sled! Feel free to post questions, Max.

For Sale:

Complete PRO 2 sled including:

PRO center post

Donkey Box 2 #276

Upper junction box

PRO 2 Anton Bauer battery system #205 w/ 3 jumpers and on-board recorder mount

Grey docking clamp

9" grey camera mounting plate

Choice (note different prices) of brand new XCS no-tools gimbal OR

Steadicam 3A gimbal with grey 5" Wrapgrip II

Steadicam Master Series Film 5" 16:9 greenscreen monitor

PRO monitor bracket with custom adapter to MS monitor

Sony EVO 220 on-board recorder with PRO power/video cable

4- Anton Bauer Hytron-50 batteries with LOW hours

2- Arri 24volt camera power cables

2- Arri/Aaton 12volt camera power cables

1- Panavision camera power cable

2- Preston FIZ power cables

2- custom PRO-to-Master Series Monitor power/video cables

Just add a vest, arm, and charger, and you're ready to go. Cosmetically at least a 9.5 out of 10.

Asking $24,500 with XCS gimbal, or $21,000 with 3A gimbal E-mail me for pictures. maxxfish@aol.com, or call (804) 675-2635

For sale: Master Series Film vest in ecellent condition. Strong velcro, immaculate leather, and clean annodizing. Smells brand new, too (I don't sweat much!). Best offer. Max Fischer

(804) 675-2635 maxxfish@aol.com Richmond, VA USA

I just read the article and answered most of my questions! Max.

As the owner of a bunch of film gear, I share the horror, but hey, it's progress. At least I can use my lenses and AKS forever.

A few questions: does the Genesis have an optical or video finder? Is it officially available for rental yet? And anyone have any inside info on when Arri will be introducing theirs (I know that they've been showing the prototype around). I'm suprised I haven't read anything on CML about either camera. Max

On my shoot yesterday, I found myself having to rebalance verytime I moved the sled. Obviously something was loose. George at GPI reminded me to made sure that the Donkey Box side-to-side friction screw was tight enough, it was. I also shecked the camera and all mount points, everything was good.

I just took apart my sled (PRO 2 post/J-box, battery cage, Donkey Box 2), and found that the junction box coild spin slightly (maybe 1/32") from the thin piece of metal directly above it (it is almost like a cover for the junction box, exact same size and about 1mm thick, directly below the donkey box).

From the top of the Donkey box, I made sure that the 4 Phillips screws and 4 allens were tight (I don't even know what they're for, so I didn't force them or take anything apart. Anyone know how I can tighten this up? I'm assuming that everytime I pan, the weight of the camera is making the whole Donkey box spin. Thanks very much in advance! max.

I have the following parts available:

3A Gimbal, good condition

PRO black 5" knurled wrap grip (for 1.5" post of course), very clean

Master Series parts available:

12" Arm Post

5" Arm post

Arm post clamp ring

Low mode D-bracket with 12" post

MS camera power cable (right-angle Lemo), camera end is bare.

Best $$$ offer or will trade for other stuff.

Max 804-675-2635

Hopefully someone can help me out with this one (Erwin?)

My current setup is a PRO 2 sled with a Master Seies Film monitor. Unfortunately, the MS frameline generator and level are part of the MS sled, so I have neither. I'm definitely ready to add both features, but of course I want a simple solution and don't want to sell my first-born to do it.

BJ is selling his PRO 1 sled with electronic level. I talked to Marcel at GPI, and he said the PRO 1 level wouldn't work on my PRO 2 sled. Anyone know different? Would it just be a matter of a custom cable and bracket? Thanks in advance, Max.

Will the new Dionics turn over a 435? And are the ProFormers re-cellable? I just got four more PFs, but maybe I should get another half-dozen ASAP! Max

After getting my arse kicked on a music video last week (single, 4-minute Steadicam shot), I was toast for about 4 days. Besides the usual spine-compression feeling (which we're all used to), my right trapezius was killing me. I naturally have really big traps (I know, this sounds funny, but I don't look like a no-necked meathead!), and the constant tensing of those muscles really took its toll.

So I've decided that it's time to seriously consider a back-mounted vest. But here's the dilema that I'm sure we all face; the DSD has become the industry standard, but $9k is A LOT for a vest. I know, it's a lot cheaper than career-ending back pain, but...

So, then there's $7,750 for the lightweight version. Well, if I'm going to spend that much, what's another $1250.00?!!!java script:emoticon(':blink:')

Lastly, there's the ActionCam, at $3700. I know this has been asked before, but can anyone give a comparison between this vest and the DSD's? I haven't tried either, but I hope to try demos of both. Thanks, Max Fischer

For Sale: Aaton 35-3 camera package, the ultimate steadicam camera. Package includes four magazines, video assist, and all the bells and whistles. This camera has always gone out with me or my assistant. Willing to let in go at a VERY reasonable price. Serious parties can call me at 804-675-2635 or e-mail me at maxxfish@aol.com.. Thanks, max