The brand new 4K capable DJI Phantom 3 has already been shipping but is constantly in and out of stock. I know a few people who have already received their units. Right now, there are some units available on the DJI Online Store, but only a limited number of orders will be accepted each day. So don’t miss your chance if you were looking to grab a new Phantom 3. Check out the inventory over at DJI.com (click here).
DJI Phantom 3 with 4K Camera + Gimbal + Lightbridge HD + Visual Positioning
NAB 2015 via RunPlayback.com, Benro introduces new BV4 / BV6 Fluid Heads and Twin Leg Tripod Kits, and also demos the AERO Travel Angel series Video Tripods that use a reverse folding leg design that allows these tripods to fold down as compact as 18".
Benro BV4 and BV6 Product Details
The kit pairs the 75mm-ball BV6 video head with a twin leg aluminum tripod. The BV6 head features a 8-step counterbalance system to dial in the correct amount for your set-up, and independent 4-step pan and tilt drag settings for precise control over camera movements. A Manfrotto 501/504PL compatible sliding quick-release plate is provided. All of the main controls, other than counterbalance, are located on the left side of the head making it easy to make adjustments with a single hand while operating the camera. For added versatility, the 75mm-ball tiedown stud is removable to convert the head to a flat base for use on a slider or other support device.
The 2-stage, 3-section twin leg aluminum tripod incorporates a 75mm bowl and offers sturdy support for the BV6 head. It features oversized quick positive leg locks for simple and fast setup, an adjustable/removable mid-level spreader, and dual spike feet with removable rubber pads. The tripod system extends to a maximum height of 65", while getting as low as 30.3". A carry case and shoulder strap are included.
The Benro BV4 Twin Leg Aluminum Tripod Kit is a lightweight video tripod system ideal for videographers shooting with smaller cameras weighing up to 8.8 pounds while the Benro BV6 Twin Leg Aluminum Tripod Kit is a complete tripod system ideal for studio applications and handling camera rigs weighing up to 13.2 pounds.
The kit pairs the 75mm-ball BV4 or BV6 video head with a twin leg aluminum tripod.
The Benro BV4 Head features a 6-step counterbalance system to dial in the correct amount for your set-up, and independent 4-step pan and tilt drag settings for precise control over camera movements.
The Benro BV6 Head features a 8-step counterbalance system to dial in the correct amount for your set-up, and independent 4-step pan and tilt drag settings for precise control over camera movements.
A Manfrotto 501/504PL compatible sliding quick-release plate is provided. All of the main controls, other than counterbalance, are located on the left side of the head making it easy to make adjustments with a single hand while operating the camera. For added versatility, the 75mm-ball tiedown stud is removable to convert the head to a flat base for use on a slider or other support device.
Benro BV4 BV6 Video Fluid Heads and Twin Leg Tripod Kits
Benro Aero S2 & S4 Travel Tripods
The Aero Video Travel Angel Tripod Kit from Benro combines a removable flat base video head and 3-stage aluminum tripod legs. The center column can be extended for additional height, and features a reverse folding leg design for a storage length as compact as 18.3". The Video head offers separate pan and tilt controls for smooth and precise camera movements. For increased versatility, one of the tripod legs is removable and can be combined with the center column to turn the system into a monopod when needed. A padded carry case and strap come included.
Benro AERO 2 and Aero 4 Travel Angel Video Tripods
|
|
|
|
Here's a sneak peek at a couple of new products from Varavon set to be released soon. We're looking at a brand new Cage system for the Atomos Shogun and a new cage system for the popular Sony A7s.
Looking at the Sony A7s cage, it may be machined from a single block of aluminum which is a more complicated process to manufacture. I wouldn't be surprised though as one of the stand out features of Varavon cage products is that most Varavon Cage products are often machined from one massive block.
As you know, the Sony A7s can have extended capabilities when used with the Atomos Shogun 4K Recorder, so this is a great combination of products set to be released. For more information about these products when they are released, check out the Varavon website https://Varavon.com.
CAME-TV has just posted two new gimbal stabilizers on their website. The first is a new version of the CAME-MINI which has been upgraded to incorporate a quick release plate and tool-less adjustments around the frame. They are labeling this as the CAME-MINI 2. Below is a video they posted on their YT channel about the new changes.
CAME-TV CAME-MINI 2 Stabilizer 3-Axis Gimbal
The next new product is a new single handed pistol grip style gimbal stabilizer that I think is really going to be appealing to the growing mirrorless market. The new CAME-TV 'SINGLE' works with a 32-bit board (as opposed to 8-bit), and the largest Brushless Motors i've seen on any pistol grip style gimbal. It also incorporates a quick release plate and tool less adjustments.
CAME-TV SINGLE 3-Axis Pistol Grip Style Gimbal Stabilizer
Obviously the unit seen in images and in video are still prototype and will most likely be black anodized for production. Expected to begin shipping in mid June 2015, the new CAME-TV SINGLE is already open for Pre-orders which includes an early bird discount. There are additional photos over at the product page (found here).
CAME-TV SINGLE 3-Axis Pistol Grip Style Gimbal Stabilizer
In other news CAME-TV has reduced pricing across many of the CAME 8000, CAME 7800 (old version), CAME 7500, and CAME 7000. Make sure to visit their website to see the new pricing.
Bowl mount tripods are a good solution for fast leveling. You don't have to bend over and fuss with the tripod legs. This is especially helpful when you have a top heavy setup. But if you already have a favorite tripod with telescoping neck, and a favorite 3/8 flat mount Video Head, you can get those fast leveling benefits using a compact leveling head like the Manfrotto 438 Compact Leveling Head.
The Manfrotto 438 Compact Leveling Head fits on a standard 3/8 tripod base between the center column and fluid head of your choice. You can use it also use it under the Fluid Head when mounted on a slider for easy leveling. This Manfrotto compact leveler adds about 2" to your setup, can support up to 33 lbs, an range adjustment of 10º degrees. Check out the options below for some similar products.
Manfrotto
Manfrotto 438 Compact Leveling Tripod Level
There are a few other options for a Tripod Leveling base starting from $80 dollars upwards to more than $300. The Manfrotto is a nice balance between build quality and price at about $82 dollars. Below are a few other options for a Tripod leveling base.
SunwayFoto
SUNWAYFOTO 66mm Tripod Leveling Base DYH-66 Sunway
Acratech
Acratech Leveling Base, Fits All Standard 3/8-16 Tripod Heads
NAB 2015, John from Dracast breaks down the new PLUS series of Dracast LED Panels. The Dracast PLUS panels come standard in Aluminum Chassis for durability and carry a 93-95 CRI Rating.
A new full readout digital display upgrades the user interface, and new electronics have been added for Smoother step-less dimming. DMX Controls are now standard and can be used with Various battery power solutions (v-mount, gold mount).
Optional modifiers can be added such as Barndoors, Chimera, etc.
For more information about Dracast PLUS Series LED Video Lights, check out their website at Dracast.com (here).
Dracast PLUS Series LED Video Lighting
|
|
|
|
|
Lensse recently released a new Dual Follow Focus called the S5. At NAB 2015, I finally had a chance to test the unit out in person. The black anodized metal body S5 uses a quick 15mm clamp for mounting, incorporates A/B hard stops, 360 degree rotating marking indicator, front or rear mounted gear design, Left or Right handed operation, and adjustable focus drag.
For a very very limited time, if you opt to use COUPON CODE: cheesycam50, you'll receive $50 USD off the retail price. For more information about the Lensse Dual Follow Focus S5, visit their website at Lensse.com (here).
Lensse S3 Dual Follow Focus Hard Stops Marking Discs
|
|
|
|
|
The guys over at XPROHELI (makers of the Silk 3-Axis Gimbal) reached out to share a tutorial video about the new SteadyGim3 EVO GoPro Gimbal. I personally can't speak about the performance of this gimbal (yet), but they mentioned they would send me a unit to test out. I have the perfect opportunity this week to get some great footage, so i'll do my own follow up review after my trip. I'm not sure what more I can add, as their video (below) seems to really cover everything you need to know.
Features:
Sleek elegant design - no wires!
Supplement your GoPro's Battery with the included charging cable
7-12 hours of battery life provides long field use without having to change batteries.
Compatible with the Lumenier Layer Lens and Blurfix Air Lenses for GoPro Hero 3, Hero 4
Plug and Play, Ready to Use out of the box - no software configuration necessary
Comes with four rechargeable batteries and one battery charger. Each battery type is 18650, and rated 3.7 volts @2000mAh.
Supports Remote Control Operation through remote accessory (offered in options above)
Compatible with GoPro LCD BacPac or battery bacpac
High torque motors provide better stabilization for different camera configurations and for high speed applications.
No judder or jerking in 360-degree rotation.
The SteadyGim3 will work with a naked GoPro (no case), or with the GoPro LCD BacPac attached. Two sets of screws are included depending on the setup you choose. The SteadyGim3 is also strong enough to keep the GoPro balanced even while using Lens Adapters such as the slide on Polar Pro ND Filter
The new Alzo Support Brace is a telescoping rod that can extend from 20 in to 55 in. and attaches to the end of a slider with a 1/4 x 20 screw thread. Designed to be used with the new Alzo Radius (curved or straight combo video slider) that will be released later this year.
NAB 2015 Alzo Booth - Alzo Radius Slider Transforms from Curved to Straight Linear Tracking
The Support Brace offers more stable support and allows you to use one tripod (as opposed to two) under long video sliders. This brace will prevent the slider from 'sagging' as your camera reaches opposite ends.
Both ends of the Telescoping Support Brace are connected to a ball mount for easy positioning. Though the Radius Slider is not yet available, the new Alzo Support Brace can be purchased now. The Alzo Support Brace is sold with or without the super clamp (saving you money if you already own a Super Clamp), and starts for around $46 dollars.
Alzo Telescoping Support Brace
|
|
|
|
|
