Premium Production Pack [Archive]

Jim Arthurs

07-17-2007, 04:05 PM

I think from now on, all still images you post of REDs should be taken by other RED's.

Hey, doesn't that "cage" member sort of get in the way of the side run switch? I know, I know, modular, but I could see someone fumbling for it the way it's laid out...

I really do like the top grip. A bunch.

Clayton Harper

07-17-2007, 04:09 PM

Hey Jarred,

Do you still get the 19mm to 15mm rod adaptor with this set?

Evin Grant

07-17-2007, 04:11 PM

Is the connection to the body going to remain the hex screws or is it going to be some sort of quick(er) release system. If it is going to be hex can you trap them with a retaining ring so they wont fall into the grass and be lost to all space & time?
Thanks.

Jarred Land

07-17-2007, 04:22 PM

That's a good question on the tripod heads. I need to find one that can do the job...what's your suggestion Jarred?

o'connor 2030 and 2060 have been doing us very well. when you start adding things like matteboxes etc. it quickly passes the 15 pound maximum heads.

Alex Boothby

07-17-2007, 04:25 PM

Did you mean 1030?

Häakon

07-17-2007, 04:46 PM

You must be kidding me with that top handle design. That's freakin' awesome.

Haha, Brook... you're so funny. We always manage to see things the other way around! :)

I actually quite liked the length of the previous top handle design as there was no chance for it to protrude over the lens. The one in the "basic" pack is the other extreme - a small stump that - although I'm sure will be handy for those on a tighter budget - doesn't mount in two places and give that extra support I'll definitely want. I was digging the carbon fiber, too, though I admit that was purely for aesthetic pleasures. :-) Totally minor changes that don't impact what's really important... I can't wait for this baby to come out!!

Ralph Oshiro is going to freak. :)

Justin Kirchhoff

07-17-2007, 04:49 PM

o'connor 2030 and 2060 have been doing us very well. when you start adding things like matteboxes etc. it quickly passes the 15 pound maximum heads.

Thanks. I'll be looking into it now. Gotta have a good production pack that can be used by my rental clients...Also by me.

Brook Willard

07-17-2007, 04:53 PM

Haha, Brook... you're so funny. We always manage to see things the other way around! :)

I actually quite liked the length of the previous top handle design as there was no chance for it to protrude over the lens. The one in the "basic" pack is the other extreme - a small stump that - although I'm sure will be handy for those on a tighter budget - doesn't mount in two places and give that extra support I'll definitely want. I was digging the carbon fiber, too, though I admit that was purely for aesthetic pleasures. :-) Totally minor changes that don't impact what's really important... I can't wait for this baby to come out!!

Ralph Oshiro is going to freak. :)

See, to me, I interpret the handle in multiple pieces. There's the basic part with two supports [that has been shown before], the single part with one support [as shown with the basic production pack] and this interesting combination of the two. I could be wrong, but I see four separate handle parts in this image: two supports and two grips.

Häakon

07-17-2007, 05:03 PM

See, to me, I interpret the handle in multiple pieces. There's the basic part with two supports [that has been shown before], the single part with one support [as shown with the basic production pack] and this interesting combination of the two. I could be wrong, but I see four separate handle parts in this image: two supports and two grips.

Interesting concept, though I think for a handle I would want it to be as few pieces (ie, one) as possible. The point is to rely on the handle for carrying the camera around and you don't want to risk it coming loose in four different places.

I've also looked at both packages back-to-back, and the distance from the grip to the front of the handle is much shorter in the basic "stump" than on the one included in the premium pack. So unless the handle actually IS in four parts and slides, those are different pieces. If they're different pieces, that would mean the previous handle is out (unless they've made three separate handles and are only showing us two of them). Again, not a huge deal, but I personally would appreciate the previous choice (mid-size length) as opposed to the small stump or the elongated premium handle.

PaulClements

07-17-2007, 05:10 PM

I think the handle on the premium at the front is the same as the handle on the basic but turned around, the rear handle on the premium then inserts inside the other handle possibly (If you look at the basic you can see a hole where it might insert. Making the top handle hold together entirely on the premium.

Alex Boothby

07-17-2007, 05:25 PM

Right Paul - I thought the same thing. Good thing I was a Lego fanatic.

EDIT - I guess that means you could remove the extruding front of the premium handle to get just what Haakon is looking for.

Häakon

07-17-2007, 05:31 PM

I guess that means you could remove the extruding front of the premium handle to get just what Haakon is looking for.
If you can, that's awesome. But like my post to Brook stated, unless the handle actually slides, the one in the basic pack is a different handle from the one in the premium (that's my guess). You can clearly see that the distance from the grip to the front of the handle is different on each.

Alex Boothby

07-17-2007, 05:33 PM

the one in the basic pack is a different handle from the one in the premium.

Check it out - I think it's the same handle rotated 180 degrees, as Paul pointed out. Could be wrong.

EDIT - But wait - if that's true then you probably could NOT remove the front extruding handle after all. Oh, I give up.

Brook Willard

07-17-2007, 05:46 PM

Here are my guesses. Photoshop always assists my speculation.

http://homepage.mac.com/brookwillard/handle.jpg

PaulClements

07-17-2007, 05:50 PM

They're the same handles but at different angles which gives the illusion the basic is smaller, you can tell by the amount of diamonds on the grip (6) that they are the same. Least that's my reckoning.

Häakon

07-17-2007, 05:53 PM

Ah, I clearly wasn't understanding the 180 degree thing. :) Thanks to Brook's handy photoshop work, that's no longer a problem. I'm still kinda bummed though, because even the best-case scenario for the "medium" handle takes three separate pieces (if any of Brook's guesses are correct). Back in this post (http://www.reduser.net/forum/showthread.php?t=2416), it looks more solid and one singular piece. But I know, I know... "things will change, count on it!"

PaulClements

07-17-2007, 06:16 PM

HD Hildebrand

07-17-2007, 06:21 PM

Are there any specs on weight and dimensions (width, hieght, lenght) for the camera (no lens) and Premium pack vs basic production pack.

They are looking amazing, though would like to keep the weight down. Perhaps amend basic pack with front side mounts and extra handle???

mdo

07-17-2007, 06:23 PM

So can my computer/car/cellphone/ but I still use it :innocent:

The following was posted to this site earlier: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0zj6CKYXUo

I think the issue is that most people don't want to put up with carbon fiber when they can have titanium.

PaulClements

07-17-2007, 06:26 PM

The following was posted to this site earlier: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0zj6CKYXUo

I think the issue is that most people don't want to put up with carbon fiber when they can have titanium.

That's a pretty good example.

Häakon

07-17-2007, 06:48 PM

The following was posted to this site earlier: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0zj6CKYXUo
If you're rolling an F-250 over your RED, you have bigger problems to worry about... :bleh:

mdo

07-17-2007, 07:16 PM

If you're rolling an F-250 over your RED, you have bigger problems to worry about... :bleh:

Yeah. Like what am I going to do with all that awesome footage.

Steve Gibby

07-17-2007, 07:21 PM

Yeah. Like what am I going to do with all that awesome footage.

...or how you're going to back-up all that awesome footage...

Ace

07-17-2007, 07:27 PM

I remember someone suggested having telescopic grips that could extend.. This screw on modular setup is a great answer to that.

Häakon

07-17-2007, 07:32 PM

I remember someone suggested having telescopic grips that could extend.. This screw on modular setup is a great answer to that.
That top row seriously had me in tears... :usd:

Steve Gibby

07-17-2007, 07:33 PM

They've said "scalable, flexibly and modular" from the very start....very cool!

Ace

07-17-2007, 07:34 PM

Hey, its all about possibilities :)

Steve Gibby

07-17-2007, 07:44 PM

Bring 'em on!

On another note, I think I'll get the Premium Production Pack. Most of what I shoot calls for the Basic Production Pack, but if I get the Premium, then I can always reduce it to the Basic anytime I want by simply using the parts of the Premium that I need for the stripped down setup. But when those "everything but the kitchen sink on the camera" gigs come along it would be way nice to have the mondo kit option available.

Jeff Kilgroe

07-17-2007, 08:40 PM

I'm definitely going with the premium pack. It's about options.

What ever happened to the T-Handle that was shown a month or two back? Is it included? Are the new rods steel or titanium? Is the Premium Production Pack a bundle of all the accessory attachments, or will there still be several others to buy in order to get a "complete" kit? Obviously more handles and such things can be purchased at any time, I just wanted to get a feel for what's out there. I guess I'm just anxious to see an official accessory list and pack details.

Alex Boothby

07-17-2007, 08:49 PM

Another top handle observation: Check out image on main page @ www.red.com. Backwards configuration + grip mounting on bracket is reverse of today's new pics. More evidence that pieces are separate and everything is modular.

Steve Freebairn

07-17-2007, 10:32 PM

That looks great!

Poi Boy

07-17-2007, 11:43 PM

Yeah ! looks great...light the damn thing !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!
Do I have to ask in other languages ???????????
-A

Justin O'Neill

07-17-2007, 11:45 PM

Ditto on what Gibby just said.

Greg Voevodsky

07-17-2007, 11:53 PM

The handles look way better than the post apocalyptic bar... much more ergonomic.

How about a RED O'Connor head discount or incorporated in one of the RED packages?

Matthew Lochman

07-18-2007, 12:02 AM

They've said "scalable, flexibly and modular" from the very start....very cool!

this is the first typo I've ever seen Gibby make... :tongue:

Alexander Nikishin

07-18-2007, 01:13 AM

Perfect!

Gavin Greenwalt

07-18-2007, 01:20 AM

Did you mean 1030?

I can't speak for Jarred. But if you look at the pic the model # on the head is 2060.

ericyoung

07-18-2007, 03:27 AM

I wonder if there will be an option for non-metallic grip coverings for cold weather work, or will we have to make our own - or are those already rubberised?

Cail Young

07-18-2007, 03:45 AM

I wonder if there will be an option for non-metallic grip coverings for cold weather work, or will we have to make our own - or are those already rubberised?

They're rubber.

Anarri

07-18-2007, 03:51 AM

I wonder if there will be an option for non-metallic grip coverings for cold weather work, or will we have to make our own - or are those already rubberised?

If it's for cold climate work, won't you be wearing gloves or some kinda hand protection? That said, but a rubber coating should be a good idea.

If only they used Gore-Tex!

dalemccready

07-18-2007, 04:00 AM

a question on that image:

If you have a longer zoom and you want to extend the rods out to support it and use a matte box, what happens to the battery assembly?

I'd assume that you'd also want to send that further out too. Do you just use longer rods? So then do you also have to undo it all to rebuild for a 25-250?

Karl H

07-18-2007, 08:20 AM

im sure its more practical but doesnt look as polished as some of the other designs, all those exposed tubes look a bit less flash :-)

is the price of this new design the same as the old ones or cheaper?

Don Woods

07-18-2007, 08:46 AM

I can't wait anymore I need that right now...

Steve Gibby

07-18-2007, 09:15 AM

this is the first typo I've ever seen Gibby make... :tongue:

Ouch! You got me on that one. I've made others, believe me.

I know how to spell "flexible", but I missed that typo. My problem is that I can think fast, but my typing skills are always way behind my thinking skills! :wacko:

Gavin Greenwalt

07-18-2007, 09:29 AM

If it's for cold climate work, won't you be wearing gloves or some kinda hand protection? That said, but a rubber coating should be a good idea.

If only they used Gore-Tex!

Even with gloves, gripping anything metal will suck the heat out of your hands. It has a lot to do with pressure. As soon as you grab even a 10 pound metal object and hold it the compression at your fingers has effectively negated your insulation. Even with light objects like an Ice Axe, the hand that holds the axe gets cold realllll quick.

John Wee

07-18-2007, 09:41 AM

would this "thing" pass through airport security ? let alone being a hand carry luggage :sad: ?

Steve Gibby

07-18-2007, 09:41 AM

I've shot a ton of winter sports coverage and scenic stock footage in real cold weather. We usually have warmth packs for the cameras, made by PortaBrace and others. I also use very thin wool gloves to operate the camera, with no problems. When it's real cold, you still end up putting your hands in your parka between shots. Sometimes we setup and shot in the early morning with a still air temperature of as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit. We used glove and boot warmer packs too.

I'd guess that as soon as RED One ships that many camera cover manufacturers will be measuring it for covers they will make for the camera - PortaBrace, Kata, Petrol, and others. Those will be protective covers, rather than warm packs, but perhaps camera warm packs designed for other cameras can be custom adapted for use with RED One in extremely cold climates.

Jarred Land

07-18-2007, 09:44 AM

I can't speak for Jarred. But if you look at the pic the model # on the head is 2060.

the 2030 and the 2060 we are using daily, in the photos we are using the 2060.

Steve Gibby

07-18-2007, 09:49 AM

would this "thing" pass through airport security ? let alone being a hand carry luggage :sad: ?

After suffering baggage handler damage to camera systems many times, my camera bodies and lenses are always in carry-on luggage now. I also have a battery in carry-on so the camera can be powered up - they usually require that. My carry-on bags look like normal backpacks and they are combo-locked to keep people out of them during the flight.

The RED One camera body itself, with a battery, and without all the other attachments (which can go in checked luggage), should easily pass as a camera, and after powering it up for security, I don't think you'll have any problems.

Sanjin Jukic

07-18-2007, 10:07 AM

It looks very good.
Now I'm on very hot island in Spain (Formentera) testing my MacBook Pro in a hot weather field conditions. Because of the mobility at the beginning I would prefer the Basic Pro Pack together with LCD and EVF viewfinder. Maybe later then Premium Pro Pack. Also it depends on a project.

Eirik Tyrihjel

07-18-2007, 01:40 PM

I wonder if the pieces can be washed in a dishwasher...

Michael Ragen

07-18-2007, 02:07 PM

Hey Sanjin,
You should check out SMC Fan Control. Its a freeware app for intel macs to control the fan rpms. It could help keep you laptop cool in hot conditions.
I just installed it this morning.

dalemccready

07-18-2007, 03:44 PM

Any ideas about re-building for the long zooms? Love to know what happens to the battery pack at that point. Does the whole rod have to be replaced by a longer one?

tj williams

07-18-2007, 03:48 PM

Back at Nab I had the impression that the "packages" were going to also be offered as individual pieces. Is this still going to happen?

chuck colburn

07-18-2007, 03:49 PM

Any ideas about re-building for the long zooms? Love to know what happens to the battery pack at that point. Does the whole rod have to be replaced by a longer one?

Mayby these.

http://www.reduser.net/forum/showthread.php?t=2722&highlight=mattebox+rods

Häakon

07-18-2007, 07:51 PM

the 2030 and the 2060 we are using daily, in the photos we are using the 2060.
I've been looking over the O'Connor site as I will potentially be purchasing a new tripod head for my RED, but according to their chart on the 2060, the minimum recommended weight for proper counterbalance is around 30 pounds:

http://www.ocon.com/typo3temp/pics/192afc164a.gif

While it's definitely important to purchase a head that will be able to hold the weight of your camera (and more, once you add matteboxes, follow focus units, batteries, LCD monitors, drives, etc.), it is certainly possible to buy "too much" tripod, and wind up with something that doesn't balance well because it's not meant to hold that little weight. Putting a VX1000 on a tripod meant for 90 lb. cameras, in other words, will not balance properly. So I'm just curious; with the camera weighing in at roughly 9 lbs, even with a "full" setup, are you getting good results from a 2060? What if you were just shooting with the body and lens? It seems (just from looking at the chart) that the 2060 would be overkill and not a good match for RED - but perhaps there is something I'm missing.

Also, the site mentions a 1030, but I don't see a listing for a 2030 anywhere or after a basic Google search. Is that an older model?

Scott Webster

07-18-2007, 08:12 PM

Current lineup:

O'Connor (http://www.ocon.com/products/fluid-heads.html)

Häakon

07-18-2007, 09:01 PM

Current lineup:

O'Connor (http://www.ocon.com/products/fluid-heads.html)
That's where I was. There is no "2030" listed. :-)

Alex Boothby

07-18-2007, 09:09 PM

I don't think it exists. The 1030HDS should work great with Red - max weight 41 lbs. The 1030HD should also be fine. I shouldn't have bought that Satchler on ebay - damn!

donatello b

07-18-2007, 10:11 PM

i just bought a sachtler ( video 20p) on ebay too ...

Alex Boothby

07-18-2007, 10:32 PM

Ya, I got a video 20 III. It's not an O'Connor, but it should be a good match for Red. I hate to say it, but part of the reason I liked it is because it somewhat matches Red's aesthetic and color pallet - I'm so shallow! :tongue:

dalemccready

07-19-2007, 12:30 AM

Although the counter balance of the head may not match with a light camera, getting a heavier weight head will generally always improve the pan & tilt smoothness. I'd always go a full 5275 head given the choice, even if it's just going to be used with a small 16mm camera. It just works better, especially for micro moves in CUs, and has no lumpiness stopping and starting like some Sachtlers do.

Alexander Nikishin

07-19-2007, 02:35 AM

The 2060HD IS THE perfect head for RED.

david farland

07-19-2007, 04:02 AM

So just looking at the minimum Connor specification and I don't have a Red camera in front of me, but let's say the centre of gravity is about 6" above the fluid head's platform,
so therefore the -
1030HD carries 30lbs @ $4,000
1030HDS carries 41lbs @ $5,370
2060HD carries 65lbs @ $7,650
2575C carries 100lbs @ $11,777

So maybe at the next public showing of a Red One, someone should bring some bathroom scales....and a bath towel.

Dave,

Brook Willard

07-19-2007, 06:33 AM

For those curious, they had two 1030s and one 2060 at Nab. Both heads handled the camera well. If youRr planning on keeping it light, the 1030 should work. If you'll go heavy with a Hubble lens at some point... Invest in a 2060 or similar.

donatello b

07-19-2007, 06:41 AM

Cail Young

07-19-2007, 07:24 AM

So maybe at the next public showing of a Red One, someone should bring some bathroom scales....and a bath towel.

Dave,

Picking up the non-functioning touring prototype at SMPTE I estimated the loaded weight (one battery, 18-50 CF lens, drive shell but no drives) between 7 and 12 kilograms - however most of that weight was towards the back of the rig, so some careful rigging would be required...

Jeff Kilgroe

07-19-2007, 07:33 AM

1030HD carries 30lbs @ $4,000
1030HDS carries 41lbs @ $5,370
2060HD carries 65lbs @ $7,650
2575C carries 100lbs @ $11,777

Also note that the 1030HDS is identical to the 1030HD, but gets its extra load capacity by sacrificing its tilt range. This can be a huge issue for some people.

And like donatello said, personal preference plays a role. I personally like O'Connor heads a lot -- even though I've never owned one. My second choice is Vinten. I have little experience with Sachtler, other than playing with them at trade shows and in rental shops, but they seem nice. I still prefer O'Connor's motion though. Cartoni is nice too, but I haven't tried their larger heads (Gamma / Delta). I owned a Focus head for a while for my HVX, but it failed under use in extreme cold and then I had nearly 3 weeks down-time as it was "fixed" (replaced with refurb unit).

I'm planning to use ViewFactor's Mirus MoCo head as my primary support for RED in studio or fully loaded configurations. But will probably get a Vinten Vision 11 or O'Connor 1030 if I need to be more mobile with a smaller setup. My local rental shop usually has one or two Vinten packages from their rental fleet for sale and prices aren't too bad.

Joel Kaye

07-19-2007, 08:34 AM

" has no lumpiness stopping and starting like some Sachtlers do"

it's all personal taste ... i would take the above sentence and replace Sachtler with O'conner but then would take a Cartoni over all of em ... and i prefer a smaller hear ( max in the 40-50lbs area) vs. a heavy head ( max 75-100lbs) for a camera in the 15-28lbs range

I just found an almost new Cartoni Gamma for a reasonable price. It's supposed to be rated up to 35lbs. I have a Focus now and it's not really very happy with cameras over 10lbs though it's supposed to be rated higher. I bought it thinking it would handle RED, but I really don't think so after seeing RED in Vegas.

Add a lens, viewfinder and battery to RED and you've got to be close to 15lbs right there.

Jeff Kilgroe

07-19-2007, 08:37 AM

There's no way the Focus will handle RED. Been there and had this discussion already. Gamma should do well though, unless you load it up with "everything".

Joel Kaye

07-19-2007, 09:00 AM

There's no way the Focus will handle RED. Been there and had this discussion already. Gamma should do well though, unless you load it up with "everything".

Yeah, I'm hoping the Gamma will end up working out well. I want to keep the camera as light as I reasonably can so it should be a good match. I like the action on it and think it's a nicer head than the Focus. Though I do love the focus for HVX size cameras.

I'm guessing there are a lot of guys upgrading to this camera who are a little shell shocked at the price of these heads. I just feel lucky I found a good deal on a head in perfect shape. A lot of used heads have had the hell beaten out of them and now they're on eBay with no chance to really test them before you buy.

Brian Broz

07-19-2007, 10:08 AM

I'm surprised at the statement "there's no way the Focus will handle RED"...the focus will counterbalance to 22lbs. Although admittedly, you don't want to be at the end of the weight capacity for larger shoots.
Although an heavier capacity O'Connor would be nice, and probably required for a loaded production pack...for those travelling light with a minimal package (not in a film set environment), the Focus should be fine...especially with wider or medium focal length lenses.
I mean we've had fairly discerning users with HDX900s (with Dionic 90 and Clip-on Chrosziel) use the Focus and be happy with its performance relative to size/weight.

Joel Kaye

07-19-2007, 10:28 AM

Focus should be fine

I dunno - if I don't sell my Focus before I get RED I'll try it on both Gamma and Focus heads. I do know my Hd-100, IDX, Micro35m, 35mm lens, FF and RODS puts the Focus at the edge of its limit and it doesn't respond in the same way as with just the HD-100 and IDX alone (which is perfect). It's a physically long rig which I believe adds to the stress and may make it act like a heavier camera.

All I know is I can clearly feel the difference in performance and it's much more difficult to get balanced with the larger weight. Will it hold the camera? Yeah sure... but that's not the same as peak performance. Throw that big camera on there and point 35 degrees down or up and see if the Focus stays there rock solid without bouncing around. Put an 8lb camera on and do the same thing... it'll be rock solid if you're set up right.

chuck colburn

07-19-2007, 11:20 AM

I might have missed it while scanning this thread, but I haven't seen the use of a sliding base plate mentioned. This is important for the proper use of whatever head is chossen. Also makes for quick balance adjustments when changing configurations. Lots easier then remounting the whole assembly to a different tripod screw hole.

dalemccready

07-19-2007, 11:44 AM

I think it goes without saying that any statement here is a reflection of personal taste. I operated a lot of projects with Sachtler 80s and then switched to Oconnors later for the smoother control in CUs, even though the Oconnors couldn't match the counter weight of a Sachtler 80 with a Platinum and a Primo zoom on.

Will this 2060 handle the Red and a long zoom like any Optimo? I'm curious about that. Still didn't really get any feedback on how to extend the rods for a zoom in the Production Premium Pack without dropping the batteries off the other end. Seems a shame to have to drop out everything to add longer rods in those situation, but I of course may be missing something in that pic.

Sam Druckerman

07-19-2007, 12:20 PM

Brook, do you remember if that was a 1030 HDS or HD at NAB?

Thanks.

Brook Willard

07-19-2007, 12:29 PM

Brook, do you remember if that was a 1030 HDS or HD at NAB?

Thanks.

No idea... I'll look through my NAB pictures when I get home.

Steve Gibby

07-19-2007, 01:53 PM

Brook, do you remember if that was a 1030 HDS or HD at NAB?

Two weeks before NAB when I visited RED to shoot the DSLR pics of Boris with the RED 18-50 CF zoom, for my "RED at NAB Part 1" magazine article, Jarred had Boris mounted on what I remember as a 1030HD.

I really like the 1030HD. Since most of my equipment setups will be around 18 to 23 pounds with RED One, I'm seriously thinking about getting one for general use.

I'll also get a Miller Solo with carbon fiber sticks for my mobile, hiking in, lightweight setup tripod.

For the occasional need for a 2060, I'll rent one.

Jeff Kilgroe

07-19-2007, 05:15 PM

I'm surprised at the statement "there's no way the Focus will handle RED"...the focus will counterbalance to 22lbs. Although admittedly, you don't want to be at the end of the weight capacity for larger shoots.

OK, perhaps my statement was a bit heavy-handed. But I personally would not use a Focus for any RED setup that I can think of. Having owned one, all I can say is that I loved the Focus head and it performed beautifully up until it gave out on me...

As I mentioned before, the "Acapulco" thread showed RED being used with very minimal configuration -- base plate, top rods, top handle, CF FLASH unit, rear mount battery, LCD and the 18-50 lens. Jim said that configuration was about 19lbs. IMO, 19lbs is borderline too much for a Focus head. Add at least another pound to that if you're recording to RED DRIVE... And then if you want a mattebox and FF on there... The Focus isn't going to keep up... That's where my statement was coming from. If you go with the 18-50 zoom or smaller primes, canon or nikon glass, etc.. You might be able to get away with a Focus head and a very minimal RED configuration. But it seems entirely too restrictive to me.

For those on a really tight budget who don't mind used gear, pick up an old used Oconnor 50D or something like that on eBay and clean it up. Usually, just a quick service to replace the old cork pad with rubber, oil check and a cleaning and off you go, they're built like a tank and can be had for less than $300 if you catch it at the right time.

tj williams

07-19-2007, 09:54 PM

Jarred it would be great if the screw in/bayonet in? attachment for the forward handle, could also accept another rod for hanging third motor.

Unwounded

07-19-2007, 11:24 PM

Are those holes on the "cage brackets" tapped? Just curius if they're there for functional reasons or what?

Sam Druckerman

07-19-2007, 11:57 PM

Two weeks before NAB when I visited RED to shoot the DSLR pics of Boris with the RED 18-50 CF zoom, for my "RED at NAB Part 1" magazine article, Jarred had Boris mounted on what I remember as a 1030HD.

I really like the 1030HD. Since most of my equipment setups will be around 18 to 23 pounds with RED One, I'm seriously thinking about getting one for general use.

I'll also get a Miller Solo with carbon fiber sticks for my mobile, hiking in, lightweight setup tripod.

For the occasional need for a 2060, I'll rent one.

Thanks Gibby,

Hmmm, if you (Like me) could only afford one?

For those on a really tight budget who don't mind used gear, pick up an old used Oconnor 50D or something like that on eBay and clean it up. Usually, just a quick service to replace the old cork pad with rubber, oil check and a cleaning and off you go, they're built like a tank and can be had for less than $300 if you catch it at the right time.

Jeff, the price of that 50D sounds to good to be true... Can you shed a little more light on the short comings compared to say, the 1030? LOL it probably weighs a ton.

Thanks Jeff.

Shawn Nelson

07-20-2007, 12:06 AM

So here is something that I have been wondering since the prices were first announced...why the heck is the premium model double the price of the basic?? I sure don't see it.

Alexander Nikishin

07-20-2007, 12:52 AM

Are those holes on the "cage brackets" tapped? Just curius if they're there for functional reasons or what?

They're 1/4 20 mounting holes used for mounting the LCD, EVF, a mic...etc.

Jeff Kilgroe

07-20-2007, 07:23 AM

Jeff, the price of that 50D sounds to good to be true... Can you shed a little more light on the short comings compared to say, the 1030? LOL it probably weighs a ton.

When you come across an older head like the 50D (and I'm not kidding around when I say "older"), they have usually had a long service life at this point. We're talking about a head that was manufactured in the early '80s, maybe even before. They have a 50lb capacity and are not as elegant as current offerings. Here's one on ebay (http://cgi.ebay.com/OConnor-50D-Fluid-Head-Peter-Lisand-Tripod-VIDEO_W0QQitemZ110149983939QQihZ001QQcategoryZ3009 5QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem) -- as long as it's in good working order, these may be a place to start.

So yeah, it's older, well used and is a bit bigger and heavier than a 1030... But the price may be just right for some. And I would definitely go this route over buying something like a brand new junk head from Bogen/Manfrotto... I already did that one and couldn't send it back fast enough.

Unwounded

07-20-2007, 01:41 PM

hey, I just saw an old thread about O'connor heads and bulk purchase discounts. They were saying you could get a 20% discount if you bought 5 heads. If someone was looking to get an O'connor and save a few bucks this might be worth the effort. I'd be down to go in with some people.

Kevin Halverson

07-20-2007, 02:29 PM

I would certainly be interested in a group purchase, I have been thinking about getting a 1030HD.

Daniel Reichenbach

07-20-2007, 02:53 PM

4 days shooting in the mountains, no computer nothing, just light, beautifull light (and dreaming about RED). Back to see this stunning picture. I will clearly purchause everything what I can get from RED. It tastes perfect for me.

Zakaree Sandberg

07-20-2007, 03:53 PM

ill go in on that deal.. sticks too? or just head?
PM me

Jay A. Kelley

07-20-2007, 04:29 PM

A good head is a good thing.. Smooth moves rule!
Jay

Alexander Nikishin

07-20-2007, 07:10 PM

I'll go in on it....2060HD for me.

Gavin Greenwalt

07-20-2007, 07:17 PM

Maybe RED could offer them at a discount for RED Reservation holders.

Take orders and down payments and then be the intermediary entity ala the original accuscene concept.

Jeff Kilgroe

07-20-2007, 07:20 PM

I'd be down with that... RED as an O'Connor dealer with benefits. Hey, maybe they could do the same with ARRI goods too! I'm still looking for that right deal on a follow focus and mattebox. I'm holding out to see Curt's MB design though.

Häakon

07-20-2007, 07:26 PM

Adam C Lubkin

07-20-2007, 08:20 PM

I'm a definite maybe on the 1030hd bulk deal.

Alexander Nikishin

07-20-2007, 11:44 PM

The 2060HD looks like it works best around the 40-70lb. range... if the RED body is only 9lbs (a good thing), it would take quite a lot to get it up that heavy, even with a lens, FF, MB, battery, and LCD. The one Mark Neveldine was testing handheld (with many of those things) only weighed around 18 pounds.

Not saying the 2060 isn't a nice head, I just think it's a little overkill unless you have a really heavy lens or some other gear on there that's going to weigh you down. That being said, I'm definitely going to need to get both a new head and sticks for my RED, and the 1030 seems a good bet. I need to do more research on my own, but it's definitely a contender and if we can indeed get some sort of group rate, I'm all for that. Consider me a strong maybe. :)

Keep in mind that Mark's setup weighed 19lbs without a MB, rails, side mounts, FF, EVF, Red Drive, that will add quite a bit of weight.

My average setup will be the RED fully outfitted with the premium production pack, an Arri MB20, FF, and for dolly work, a Cooke 20-100 (weighing in at 12lbs.).

That should easily reach into the 30-40lb range.

So the 2060 is right up my alley.

Poi Boy

07-21-2007, 12:05 AM

1030 for me.
-a

ATF

07-21-2007, 01:33 AM

I love my O'Connor 50D and will be using it for my own work unless renting for clients.

Needs to be sent in for a bit of work, though.

Best,

ATF

Spinflight

07-21-2007, 02:50 AM

The 2060HD looks like it works best around the 40-70lb. range... if the RED body is only 9lbs (a good thing), it would take quite a lot to get it up that heavy, even with a lens, FF, MB, battery, and LCD. The one Mark Neveldine was testing handheld (with many of those things) only weighed around 18 pounds.

Not saying the 2060 isn't a nice head, I just think it's a little overkill unless you have a really heavy lens or some other gear on there that's going to weigh you down. That being said, I'm definitely going to need to get both a new head and sticks for my RED, and the 1030 seems a good bet. I need to do more research on my own, but it's definitely a contender and if we can indeed get some sort of group rate, I'm all for that. Consider me a strong maybe. :)

That's the beauty of O'Connors, you don't have to weigh it down to make it work properly. You can dial in or out as much counterbalance as you want. No camera is too small for this head. It even works great with a bare DVX or HVX. O'Connors work differently than those "other" heads that spring back when you tilt because the cameras aren't heavy enough. O'Connors, don't spring back, they stay put. Heck, dial out nearly all the counterbalance and it'll work great under a HV20 if you want. I think too many times we use what we know about other brand name heads as a reference to how an O'Connor might work. It just works too different to make that comparison. O'Connors are in a league of their own.

Jarred Land

07-23-2007, 08:40 PM

The 2060HD looks like it works best around the 40-70lb. range... if the RED body is only 9lbs (a good thing), it would take quite a lot to get it up that heavy, even with a lens, FF, MB, battery, and LCD. The one Mark Neveldine was testing handheld (with many of those things) only weighed around 18 pounds.

Not saying the 2060 isn't a nice head, I just think it's a little overkill unless you have a really heavy lens or some other gear on there that's going to weigh you down. That being said, I'm definitely going to need to get both a new head and sticks for my RED, and the 1030 seems a good bet. I need to do more research on my own, but it's definitely a contender and if we can indeed get some sort of group rate, I'm all for that. Consider me a strong maybe. :)

Mark's setup was almost as light as possible. There was no mattebox or followfocus, had our lightweight lens on it, and no bottom rail system.

If I was you, I wouldnt go for the 1030, but opt for the 1030 HDS. You want to stick in that 70% weight limit of your head.

Greg M

07-23-2007, 08:54 PM

The 2060 and 2075 will work fine w/ 0lbs...I would recommend either of these as you will be able to continue using them as your package grows. The smaller heads are limiting.

what happens if you need to rent a dutch head, or put a long zoom on your camera? The 2060 can handle any of this and will serve you well for many years.

Andrew Benz

07-23-2007, 09:12 PM

If I was you, I wouldnt go for the 1030, but opt for the 1030 HDS. You want to stick in that 70% weight limit of your head.

I was wondering this very same thing for my more mobile set up. Thank you for the heads up so to speak.

OBTW- I think what Greenwalt and Kilgroe (great law firm name btw!!:bleh: )
suggested as far as a RED Reservation/O'Connor head/sticks discount would simply be impossible for the RED Team!!! :biggrin:

Cheers---Andrew

OT-- I have an O'Connor 50 that needs to be reconditioned... anyone been through this lately and what the associated costs might be? Also, does anyone have a source for used sticks--say Ronford,etc.? Thanks

Häakon

07-23-2007, 11:13 PM

If I was you, I wouldnt go for the 1030, but opt for the 1030 HDS. You want to stick in that 70% weight limit of your head.
The problem with the HDS is that you lose considerable tilt range - I'm not sure that's an acceptable loss. If the 2060 really can be used with minimal weight (their charts don't seem to indicate that), then that would probably be the best way to go without question. Just becomes an issue of money at that point.

Dexter Gregoire

07-28-2007, 07:17 PM

I was wondering while looking at the Premium Production Pack if the only purpose of the two top rods was to support the extra long top handle and the Cage. Is this true?

What would the approximate weight of those items be if removed 3-4 lbs?

Brook Willard

07-28-2007, 08:08 PM

The two top rods exist to mount whatever you want to mount. This is one of an infinite number of possible configurations. In this configuration, the top rods are supporting one bridge plate and the four "cage" handles on the side. The top handle is mounted to the upper part of the RAIL system.

We don't know the official weight yet, but I doubt it'll tip the scales.