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  • Hey all, just changed over the backend after 15 years I figured time to give it a bit of an update, its probably gonna be a bit weird for most of you and i am sure there is a few bugs to work out but it should kinda work the same as before... hopefully :)

Looking for wireless follow focus for manual lenses, not canons - throw me a bone :)

Dmitry Burenok

Dmitry Burenok

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Is there anything like REAL wireless follow focus? All devices on the market these days - they just cheesy RC servo-based toys. YES - you can do focus with them, pretty easy, it is fine - but they inaccurate, they just "DRIVING" devices instead of "positioning" - move knob forward/backward and you are out of the initial marks. It is like having a huge (and non-consistent) backlash on real FF. Has to have positioning sensor as well as motor.

Is there anything like that? Please! need to upgrade my steadicam RIG with one like that.
 
Preston, C-motion , ARRI all make very real wireless FF systems. They are incredibly responsive , have a very tactile feel AC's need and have no backlash. These systems can run 30,000$ for full blown kits. A Bartech is a much cheaper alternative but does not feel like the above. Not nearly as precise. VIewfactor was on to something I thought but its been very quiet from Curt lately, maybe 2013 will bring some new news.
 
I've been considering ditching our manual Follow focus, which I do like, and use just a wireless FF, seems to be so much more useful.

What do you guys think? Does the Wireless FF fall short in any areas the manual focus would not?
 
I have owned many wireless follow focus products throughout my carrier. The one that always sticks in the BFD. (Bartech)
Jim, the guy that builds them in Long Beach is just great, very responsive. Although I never had any problems with any of the units I have owned.
And now that PLC Electronics up in Canada created the BDR receiver, it's hard to beat them. Now it's a full digital system, with a very small receiver, and auto calibration.
Add a Heden motor and you're set...
 
So far only redrock fits more or less in my desired price range. RT motion looks good but it is about $3000 for the single motor kit...

Does anyone has any testimonials on redrock? Other products from them looks good. At least worth money.
 
You complained that most wireless FF units you'd seen were 'toys', but $3000 is too much for you?
I don't understand.
 
Yup - I think proper system can be made for about 1000-1500 at max. Same digital motor with positioning sensor - can't think it worth paying extra 1500 for that. It is mass product RC technology. Not a rocket science. I do understand why we paying extra thousands for better glass or camera - but not for something that simple. Most of the system contains SAME RC digital servos 50-100 bucks device, depending on brand and quality. Difference is - they just have better design for enclosure and accessories. Less plasticky more cnc. So - waiting for redrock testimonials, than.
 
Dmitry,

Have you ever used a professional wireless follow focus? I think if you do (especially if you get the chance to take one apart), you'll quickly find NONE of the professional solutions available on the market (including RRM's) use any RC technology. Some of the lower end systems use adapted RC technology (like the original HocusFocus, which used an adapted RC servo, but their own wireless boards), but Bartech, Preston, CMotion, and the rest of the professional market has nothing to do with RC technology.
 
Dmitry Burenok said:
Yup - I think proper system can be made for about 1000-1500 at max. Same digital motor with positioning sensor - can't think it worth paying extra 1500 for that. It is mass product RC technology. Not a rocket science. I do understand why we paying extra thousands for better glass or camera - but not for something that simple. Most of the system contains SAME RC digital servos 50-100 bucks device, depending on brand and quality. Difference is - they just have better design for enclosure and accessories. Less plasticky more cnc. So - waiting for redrock testimonials, than.
Click to expand...
Dmitry,
If you think that a good system can be made for $1500 that's a great business opportunity. You'll sell hundreds easily. I suggest you make it :)
 
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