EZFX EzJib, AdvantaJib Lite and Scarlet

[Michael McCaffrey]

Hey Guys,

We recently got an AdvantaJib Lite (with the extra springs rated to 15lbs). The Jib works really great... with our EX1. The Scarlet (13lbs with lens and v-mount battery) is just to heavy for it. The hydraulics in the jib just cannot handle the extra weight. It is so difficult control it was really disappointing. When we put the EX1 (about 7lbs) on the jib the difference was NIGHT and DAY!! I'd definitely keep the AdvantaJib if I was using a lighter camera.

Since I need a jib that will handle the Scarlet.. I'm still looking. Specifically I'm looking at the EzJib with the extensions and the EZ Head Lite (rated up to 15lbs). Has anyone actually put the Scarlet on this remote head? How does it handle? Do the gears slip? Even though its rated to 15lbs, is the 25lb EZ head necessary for good control? Anyone who has used the EzJib with the remote heads and the Scarlet/Epic please fill me in on your experience :) I'm eager for some feedback before I make the switch here soon.

[Koray Birand]

Go with the 25lbs head. I did not use the 15lbs head but from my experience with the 25 I feel that 15 will not be able to handle the scarlet.

[Rob Ruffo]

Kessler remote head is better, cheaper and programmable, and their jib has zero wobble unlike those you mention. Go with Kessler. We use their head with a fully kitted Red One at 12 feet = no problem.

[Michael McCaffrey]

Kessler remote head is better, cheaper and programmable, and their jib has zero wobble unlike those you mention. Go with Kessler. We use their head with a fully kitted Red One at 12 feet = no problem.

Ive tried to get ahold of Kessler about 8 times over the past couple months via phone. Left messages. Left emails. Called both Kessler and their Vitek retailer in Ontario and couldnt get anyone on the phone. Nobody returned my calls or emails. So Kessler was not an option. I was looking strongly at Kessler but they lost our business.

[Les C.]

Ive tried to get ahold of Kessler about 8 times over the past couple months via phone. Left messages. Left emails. Called both Kessler and their Vitek retailer in Ontario and couldnt get anyone on the phone. Nobody returned my calls or emails. So Kessler was not an option. I was looking strongly at Kessler but they lost our business.

I had a few minor questions upon receiving my CineSlider, Hercules & k-Pod (quite happy with them, solid build).

Got them on the phone right away.

They do sometimes take a day or so to answer emails though.

But, with a lifetime warranty and very good reputation, you might want to reconsider.

I've never heard of a negative experience with them (other than your inability to get a hold of them).

[Sergio Perez]

I have the EZ jib and while its a solid Jib, its very, very heavy, and while its possible for one person to do the whole setup, realistically it requires 2 persons to operate. It requires a good heavy tripod to support the jib. Haven't tried the Kessler or the other Jibs. I have a PBloom Pocket Dolly from Kessler and I'm a bit disappointed with it, its just not as smooth as I thought it would be. Still, its well built and does as advertised (also had great support and communication with them.) . Their Jibs have a good reputation in the marketplace.

One I would look into (haven't purchased that one because its expensive) is the microdolly Jib. I'm a big, big fan of the microdolly dolly (I own one), even though I haven't tried the crane, seeing its design on its web page, its weight and innovative weight counterbalance options, I would look seriously into microdolly Jib for purchase... In fact, i would have bought vs the EZ jib it If I had the cash back then!