Katerina Kallergis

Thanks for the input! I forgot about the Mazda 3, it's a nice looking car. I was looking at some Hybrid SUVs, the Ford Escape and the Mercury Mariner to be specific. As much as I'd like to "go green" the price tag keeps knocking me in the head. But what do you guys have to say about the whole hitch situation for the vehicle mounts? -Kat

Hey guys, I'm looking into a new car for myself. Considering all the equipment I've got now is a tight fit in the Corolla I've got and it isn't all that convenient. I figure a hatchback of some sort could do the trick. I've been focusing on the Scion Xd or the Honda fit. Both small but loads of cargo space. Anyone have one of those and care to share what they think? Also, I wanted to put a hitch on the back for a vehicle mount. Is this impossible with a hatchback or would I have to go with an SUV for this? I thought this was the best place to post this. That Smart car is real "cute" but too small, even for me. Thanks in advance. -Kat

I would contact XCS directly because I just bought one from Greg (great guy, btw) and the sizes vary depending on which Masters sled you have. You may need one of the older model XCS plates like I did, (i have the Masters Film). -Kat

I had the same problem on Friday with mine. The signal would cut out at about 100 feet. Not good at all. Any recommendations on antennas I should use. Maybe a better one on the transmitter? I'm using the RF links transmitter. Thoughts? Ideas? thanks, Kat

I still vote Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, nothing feels better than making someone say "uncle." And, depending on which school you go to it really isn't that expensive. But on a side note the "sexercising" doesn't sound bad either, lol. You could do both really.

I won the NAGA (North American Grappling Association) last year with a head and arm triangle (the tecnique used at 1:53 of the YouTube video. Wow, didn't know so many Steadicam Ops were into BJJ. I won two 2nd place medals at NAGA for Gi and no-Gi. It was fun! Unfortunately, I got owned at the Gracie Invitational last year. Trying to work some flying triangles and arm-bars though, figure that's the last thing anyone expects these days. So, Amando you'd love Jiu Jitsu for its art, plus I can only see it helping as far as operating goes (as long as you know when to TAP) haha. -Kat

Am looking for a padded arm bag. Like the Mod 51. Thanks, Kat

thanks Rob. I did exactly what you said with the accurian and the lenmark 9v batt for mine and it works great....so far anyway. I made a frame with handles too (copying the camos) with plexiglass to protect the screen on the outside.

Hello Everyone!! I just got the SPX-68 and everything is working fine via the wall power adapter anyway. Being the a wall adapter is not exactly ideal for Steadicam, I was wondering how does one go about powering the unit? It says to use 12V AB power or 8 AA batts, but can't I just power it through the sled? Is it possible to use the power cable and attach a limo or hirose connector to the other end? If so, which do you recommend? Any information you can give me is greatly appreciated. Thanks, Kat

I do not have one myself, although from reading the forum, it seems most operators use the Archos. Compared to what you're looking at, it's a lot more cost efficient. This PDR100, does it have a screen so you can watch what is being recorded or for playback? I didn't notice a screen on the link. If not, then that's another reason one would go with the Archos. It seems buying a miniDV camcorder with a video IN is a bit difficult to find. I luckily have an old Sony model that has one, so I'll use that for awhile till I one day get the Archos myself. Hope this helps.

After reading all that (not understanding all of it, of course) I seriously have a new appreciation for you guys. I hope one day I'll be able to "get" it all. Now, I'm going to take some tylenol for this headache. -Kat

Thanks so much. The links and info have been very helpful!!

Hello all you wonderful, helpful steadicam ops out there! I am extremely happy to tell you I am the proud owner of my very first rig. I also got my hands on a BFD system with M1 motor. My question to you all is: How do I go about mounting the motor to my Masters sled? The amazing Jim Bartell suggested rods that mount to the dovetail (available through Tiffen?). It was also suggested that I ask you all for some feedback. Thanks again, Kat

I hear Tiffen is selling Archer demo rigs. Contact them and check it out.

WOW. Thanks for all the information. You guys are great!

First off, I want everyone to know that I am very thankful for this forum. I'm sure everyone on here is. I've been reading and reading to the point where I think my brain will explode, but here is my question... if I bought an Archer, how much would I really be limiting myself? I have this impression that the Clipper and Ultra are the only "big camera" rigs (made by Tiffen, anyway) and buying anything smaller would be useless. I mean I'd prefer the Clipper but money IS an issue. Thanks for your time, Kat