Opteka has made available a new version of their dual handled CXS stabilizer - the CXS-2 Shoulder Support. The handles swing apart for spacing, but under the stage seems to have support for 15mm rods (to mount accessories like an FF). The shoulder pad fits more like a target shooter, but is upgradeable to support their optional counterweight and belt support system.
It runs under $130 dollars, but what do you guys think? Worth it, or is there something else in that price range you are using today that's a better fit? (click here to find Opteka CXS-2 Shoulder Stabilizer on eBay)
Opteka CXS-2 Double Handle Stabilizer 15mm Support
Another interesting little tidbit released is their VB-30 Aluminum triple mount shoe adapter. The VB-30 fits on a standard shoe and makes available three additional shoes for small accessories, led lights, microphones, etc.
Emm
Post author@nico - Check this one httpss://cheesycam.com/filmcity-95-composite-dslr-rig/
nico
Hey guys, what would be the best alternative in the same price range to this rig if I need to use the standard 60mm system to add a follow focus (since this one has a 80mm gap between the rods).
Why did they do that?!
Emm
Post author@EnticeMediaMN - Yes that's the same rig, but ePhoto just released a better shoulder pad with a counterweight for only $89 bucks. Check out the ePhoto version here: ePhoto Dual Grip DSLR Camera Video Shoulder Mount Rig
EnticeMediaMN
I have the RJ FF and Shoulder rig that you had reviewed last year. For the price it's a really good setup and I thank you for your recommendation. I recently was searching for something similar on Amazon and came across the Opteka CXS-100 which seems to be identical to the RJ rig, it also has an available FF that looks just like the RJ one. Do you know if it's the same rig under a different name or if it's totally different? If it's the same or of similar quality I would probably buy it! Here's the links...
https://www.amazon.com/Opteka-CXS-100-Videographers-Shoulder-Camcorders/dp/B0067PNL3K/ref=pd_sim_p_4
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0067MQ4I2
Wiley
I'm having a tough time making the CXS-2 comfortable to wear, even with light video gear.
I also have the strap and the weight setup. I might have to get some wide belt loop pants to make it work with the strap as the weigh from my light/camera/wireless setup keeps pulling everything forward - thus pulling up the waist strap.
It has potential, with some adjustments. Haven't used it on a gig yet.
BASH from OHio
Anybody used this rig yet??? Thoughts.....Jag35 worthy??
Mark
Bought mine this week too, should be here before the weekend. Will be posting impressions. 🙂
Hansel
I just purchased this few days ago, I can wait to play with it!
Andy
i came across this recently. a company called Habbycam is selling a rebranded version of the same rig for more than double the price.
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/828802-REG/Habbycam_HD_BRACE_HD_Camera_Brace.html
Michael Torpey
apparently there are two version. The original with their rails or the version with the "15mm rail accessory rod" and counterbalance.
jodydb
the triple hot shoe mount is great and study, i found it when i wanted a jcube? but wasnt paying that outlandish price, they also have a nice traditional flash mount bracket with 3 hot shoe adapters around 14 that works great.
Emm
Post author@Bruce Philpott - Not the rails that the handles are attached to. There's another image that appears to shows rails mounted under the Aluminum baseplate, or maybe i'm not looking at it correctly.
Bruce Philpott
@ Dave Navarro: I bought that one a year ago and regretted it. The tightening knobs strip out and the rails are a bit larger than 15mm, so most things (follow focus, matte box, etc.) won't fit. I drilled out the handles and put in nuts and bolts and usd them for another rig. The rest I threw away.
Emm, there's no place for FF and MB, etc. on those rails... they're not parallel.
Killer K
let us know how that works out for you michael
Dave Navarro
This shoulder rig is $150 and has standard 15mm rods to put a FF or matte box on it.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/15mm-Rail-Handgrips-Shoulder-Support-for-Follow-Focus-/260812466908?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cb9a26adc
Michael Torpey
I was looking at this on the opteka site a few days ago. I just pulled the trigger. I throw some videos up as soon as I get it.
imgpro615
i agree with killer k...opteka IS stepping up as the poorman's gear supplier...CineCity used to be but they think they are redrock and cinevate anymore...their prices [though still very competitive] are still comparatively high...if opteka comes with a dual arm stabiliser arm and vest...LOOKOUT!
that triple show cube looks interesting...saw it on a site with a tube for HDV camera that use a mic clamp...i built my own version of it AND this cube...cost more than i was comfortable to pay at the time...
Killer K
i think opteka looks like they are stepping up to the game with price efficient stabilizers. like the included counterweight option to. if it was 100 bucks instead might be ready to pull the trigger
ed
a nice low cost option- but supports with handles that are straight up and down are bad for the wrist and can be uncomfortable. It needs to be at an angle like thier single hand model. Straight handles are OK when your forearm is level with the horizon.