Chuck Swan

Ditto here. Got the Jorden Brown one. Did he just troll the SOA list? - Chuck

I started out with an EX1/Pilot combination. It flys great if you are only using the EX1. That combo worked well through the addition of a (single) wireless receiver, shotgun mic, clip-on mattebox, but that was about the limit. Light, compact, stable. However, as my accessory list grew (Lightpanels light, 2nd wireless channel, etc.), I had to upgrade to the Flyer LE. On the Pilot, follow focus, wasn't an option with any other accessories. Low mode wasn't. EX1 is a nice cam to shoot with. A spare AV cable can be had for about 20 bucks and chopped to make a short video feed for the monitor. On the Pilot, if you are handy with a soldering iron you can make a cable to power from the sled which will help with the weight. I haven't used the Merlin, but I don't see how it would work with EX1 unless the camera was stripped.

Donny, As it happens, some guy has a Pilot for sale in the "Marketplace" forum. (sorry! Shameless plug.) - Chuck

For Sale: Pilot VLB Package, Complete. Like new, only about 20 hours of operation. Includes batteries, charger & optional SteadiStand. Great rig, but my camera "grew". Wish I could keep it for lightweight shoots. $4,250.00 plus shipping. For more details & contact info, see the pdf here: http://www.chuckswan...chuck/Pilot.pdf - Chuck

Spoke to Tonya a couple of days ago about getting coverage for my gear & liability. Reiterated Janice's invite to join the forum (with the URL). She seemed interested and said she would try to follow up soon. Thanks to Janice and to Peter (Abraham) for the contact! -Chuck