Power Advice for my Scarlet X??

[Donnie King]

Hey guys I've been using my 4redvolt batteries with my Scarlet x and they really don't seem to last long at all, so I am considering selling them and going vmount. The redvolts are basically brand new. If possible I would like to get a vmount setup plus everything I need for close to what I would get for selling my redvolts with the charger. Could someone please post everything thing that I would need to go v-mount power? If I can get a battery that will last about 3hours or more it would be really nice. Also I am using 3rd party monitor along with side handle, will my side handle still function with vmount power? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[JustinC]

I'd hang on to your REDvolts and use them for times where weight saving is of paramount importance. They are also great to fly abroad with. Although I do own vloks for most of my shooting.

There are so many options for battery manufacturers and chargers that you should just google and read up on some. It's a pretty crowded marketplace so you'll have your pick of brands for all budgets.

Batteries:
Global Media Pro seem to be the low cost option popular on the forum, although I personally prefer the Pag PL96e's with the interlocking system. SWIT, HAWKWOODS, IDX and SWITRONIX are all fine.

Chargers:
I use an IDX VL4s charger which is 4 channel and really great on shoots when you are churning through batteries as it will recharge four batteries simultaneously in 3 hours. But I also like the PAG travel charger for lightweight travel.

The RED v-lok kits are pretty robust too. You could do a lot worse than buying 4 batteries plus charger from the store.

Lastly, you'll need a battery plate and bracket. Again there are lots available now. I'd go for Wooden Camera or ViewFactor. Make sure you get one with d-tap ports for accessories.

Hope that helps.

 

[Maik Müller]

We had a few threads about that, my opinion on this is: get a Dual-Module, maybe a Quad too (you can get it cheap in the sales forum) and stay with REDVOLTs (and get a few more). It's the most versatile and beautiful solution to power a Scarlet or EPIC. Really good stuff with a few advantages, i'm glad i invested a bit more.

 

[Donnie King]

Great info thanks a lot Justin!

 

[Martin Weiss]

I use an IDX VL4s charger which is 4 channel and really great on shoots when you are churning through batteries as it will recharge four batteries simultaneously in 3 hours.

If you want even faster charging time, only charge 3 batteries. With 4 batteries it charges at reduced power. That said, I love my VL4s, even though it is not the best option for travelling light.

 

[JustinC]

You're welcome Donnie.

Thanks Martin, I didn't know that. I'll read the instructions for the next piece of kit I buy, I promise.

 

[Oliver Lee]

Iv'e used the battery belt clip http://www.red.com/store/products/battery-belt-clip-dsmc and red bricks http://www.red.com/store/products/red-power-pack. Seems to work well and when I don't attach it to my belt I just clip it on my tripod.

 

[Carey Lee Coffey]

We had a few threads about that, my opinion on this is: get a Dual-Module, maybe a Quad too (you can get it cheap in the sales forum) and stay with REDVOLTs (and get a few more). It's the most versatile and beautiful solution to power a Scarlet or EPIC. Really good stuff with a few advantages, i'm glad i invested a bit more.

Yes, unless you need to power a wireless follow focus or extra monitor... then you will need a V-mount or AB battery with D-taps... unless you spend another $1, 200 on a + 1 module.

 

[Martin Weiss]

I'll read the instructions for the next piece of kit I buy, I promise.

I hardly ever read the instructions either. I read this on some other forum and checked with the display on the charger to confirm it. I think it was 2 amps charge with 1-3 batteries and then 1.5 when all 4 are charging simultaneously. What I usually do if I need the batteries charged fast, is to put the 2 least charged ones and the most charged ones on first, then when the one battery is fully charged, I put on the last battery. YMWV.