Tentacle Sync and Timecode with Komodo

[Geno Marx]

I have been trying to figure out the best workflow for using Tentacle Sync and Komodo while allowing for maximum available connections and simplified rig configuration. I love Tentacle's auto mapping feature when it works. Big time saver in post.

Scenario 1: Use the expander module, TRS to BNC from Tentacle sync into the timecode port on the expander. SmallHD monitor then needs to be connected to expander using the smaller connection type than the supplied cable for Red Control. Komodo set to External for timecode. This setup allowed for easy sync across three mics and three Komodo's.

Scenario 2: No expander. Attempted to use TRS to EXT and Jam sync in Komodo, then disconnect the Tentacle and reconnect monitor to EXT with standard connection. For some reason this didn't allow automatic sync using timecode. So the Jam sync didn't work properly on the three Komodo's. But I've seen people do this and even sync multiple cameras off just one Tentacle Sync E.

Does anyone have advice on what would be the best way to go about this? What am I doing wrong to avoid having to always use the expander module? I would love to have a smaller rig setup that allows me to still use monitor and the tentacle sync e.

Thanks

 

[Joris v. A.]

You should keep the Tentacle connected. Komodo's internal clock isn't accurate enough on its own. Even the Tentacles should be synced up twice a day to be safe.

 

[Michael von Hirschheydt]

The Komodo tends to drift over hours by several frames when the TC input is used alone. Timecode generators with additional Gen Lock outputs are preferred (e.g. TimecodeSystems, Betso, Ambient etc.) especially in Multicam/ Stereo configurations. For TC generators with a master/ slave configuration and sync over the air the TC output of a field recorder (like Sound Devices 8-Series or MixPre-10 II) can be used as master clock. Their internal clock is temperature compensated (ovenized) and precise. For cable management I recommend the very compact Micro I/O by Modern Film Tools. For SmallHD Monitors like Cine 7 a 4 pin (DMSC2 style) control cable is necessary sold by SmallHD or Zitay.

 

[Glen Powell]

I shoot 3 days a week with a Komodo hooked to a Tentacle, and here's what works for me:
- leave the Tentacle hooked to the Komodo, feeding timecode continuously
- Sync the Tentacle every 4-5 hours with your audio (I've been using the Tentacle Track lately with great results)
- When I shoot a two or three Komodo setup, I have a Tentacle Sync for each Komodo.

 

[Chris Weatherly]

I shoot 3 days a week with a Komodo hooked to a Tentacle, and here's what works for me:
- leave the Tentacle hooked to the Komodo, feeding timecode continuously
- Sync the Tentacle every 4-5 hours with your audio (I've been using the Tentacle Track lately with great results)
- When I shoot a two or three Komodo setup, I have a Tentacle Sync for each Komodo.

If you have an audio recorder that generates time code I think this is the best solution. Especially if you are shooting multi cam. I love the Tentacle Synch. I've used it on the URSA Mini and the ARRI Mini with no issues. I just have to buy a different cable now to go with the Komodo.

 

[Geno Marx]

If you have an audio recorder that generates time code I think this is the best solution. Especially if you are shooting multi cam. I love the Tentacle Synch. I've used it on the URSA Mini and the ARRI Mini with no issues. I just have to buy a different cable now to go with the Komodo.

I have tried a solution which seems to be working out better. I got the Wooden Camera breakout box which only takes up one side of the V-mount so I can use the other for the Vmount slide battery. This allows me to have everything I need hooked up. Tentacle connected to the breakout box instead of using the Expander and I am not shooing all day, so I haven't experienced the drift issues. So far so good.

 

[Chris Weatherly]

I have tried a solution which seems to be working out better. I got the Wooden Camera breakout box which only takes up one side of the V-mount so I can use the other for the Vmount slide battery. This allows me to have everything I need hooked up. Tentacle connected to the breakout box instead of using the Expander and I am not shooing all day, so I haven't experienced the drift issues. So far so good.

Glad you found a solution. I'm not super techy, so I try the find the simplest solutions. Thanks for sharing.