This is sort of a "long time listener, first time caller" situation for me, as I've been poking around these forums for a few years, absorbing as much knowledge as I can. I am in a similar boat as this gentlemen, with a few variations..
I have been facinated by the concept of a Steadicam all my life, since I've been watching movies for the production value instead of the plot from the first time I saw a video camera. At this point in my career (young with tons of experience across the spectrum), I know I want to do this for a living. I've made the decision to reserve an upcoming workshop and have purchased my flights to LAX already. So Mr. Wilson, how hard would it be for me to swing by on my Tinsle Town Tour between Aug 6th and Aug 11th? I've worked at a production company in Grand Rapids, Michigan in recent years, and the Steadicam they always hired was a bigger rig.
With the full intention of upgrading later, the Flyer is my top choice right now, but the decision of what model (24 or LE, HD or SD) is still up in the air. Also the question of where to purchase (new, used, workshop?) is up in the air. I use the DVX 100B and the HVX 200A a LOT with the occasional JVC GY-HD200U and a Sony Z1U thrown in there. Right now, I am the sole creator and co-producer of a college sports recap show, and the next obvious step for the program is a Steadicam (football is huge ever since they won back-to-back conference championships). That being said, I have clients lined up for the next few years (or until I decide to move on to LA).
I've worked with the Red Rock and P+S Technik on multiple occasions, so I see more of that in my future based on the experiences that I've had and the positive results of the productions we used it on. Also in my near future, I see myself purchasing the RED Scarlet and a respectable Cine-package for it.
So I know that the Scarlet hasn't been a huge topic of discussion around here, but what does everyone think about the best Flyer for me? I don't expect to get one by the time the Hollywood workshop rolls around, but very soon after..
Regards,
Mike