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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 :)

Tripod group buy?

The S version is maybe 20% higher capacity and can handle more severe tilt angles. I agree with Mitch that bigger lenses will challenge the 1030 series heads. Part of the evaluation should take into account your typical production profile - small crew or large crew? do you often hang a lot of gack on your rig? Do you spend much time at or near the long end of a zoom or trying to smooth pan on a 300mm? Etc.

The 1030s are amazing for their small size and light weight but they have their limits.
 
i had the 18-85 on a 1030HD ...felt good to me ..i'd go with it ...
normally i use a video 20plus ...between those two ?
i'd go 1030HD
 
1030HD & 1030HDS Difference...

1030HD & 1030HDS Difference...

Hm...And all versions of the 1030 head have the same load capabilities?

(What is the functional difference between those, btw?)

Hi Justin,

The 1030HD balances up to 30lbs, and has a tilt range of 90 degrees to 90 degrees.

The 1030HDS (Stuidio) balances up to 41lbs with a tilt range of 60 degrees to 60 degrees.
 
Justin-

I went through this exact same questions as you, building a lower-cost RED rig, and I would really recommend getting in contact with Abel - they are the most knowledgeable people in the business, and when it's all said and done their prices were the best, they beat filmtools by a considerable amount. You may bemoan the lack of prices on their site, but as they are selling rather big-ticket items, they want to talk to you and make sure you're ordering the right things. I know it's a little old fashioned, but you'll learn a lot talking to a salesman, and in the end feel better knowing someone before you hand over $15k of your money for a tripod, follow focus, and matte box.

Also, I decided on the 1030 HDS and have not been disappointed. Any time I need more tilt range, we just adjust the ball mount or collapse one of the legs forward/back.

Ryan
 
Hi Justin--

I have used the Oconnor HD 1030 with my Red -- and even with a Cooke 18-100 which weighs a couple of pounds more than the Red 18-85-- I mounted the battery mounted low off bottom rails and not a lot of extras besides the LCD screen, matt box, Red drive, FF -- and while I grant that is pushing toward its limits, Oconnors are built and meet their specs. And of course, when tripod mounted, it's not a stretch to get the battery off the camera and the battery holder with the belt clip, while a bit pricey, is handy in multiple situations.

Even fully loaded with the Cooke (12+ pounds) the 1030 performed flawlessly -- and this is one that's got 5 or six years on it.

Yes, the 2060 would be a better choice with the big zooms and full configuration, but it's almost twice the weight and a lot more money.

On the other hand, I'm a big fan of Miller as well, and their heads are, to my mind, the most bang for the buck in the business. They too are solid. You won't go wrong with the Arrow 55. Plus, it's not heavy either. I believe, because Oconnor has become a kind of standard, that Millers have been greatly under-rated in this country.

The advantages of the 1030 to my mind is that it's light -- and I do a lot of solo work. Millers and Oconnors both hold up over time and if you're considering upgrading your Red, the Epic will be lighter and maybe a perfect fit for the 1030.

You can find 1030's used in the 1/2 to 2/3's of new price with a little patience.

Good luck.
 
Where can you find OConnor 1030 for half price?

Where can you find OConnor 1030 for half price?

Justin and Others: I agree the 1030 heavy duty version is ideal for the RED as I own one and love it..but beware if you are electing to wait and try and find one on the used market for 1/3 or 1/2 off..
It is just not going to happen.. I looked a long while everywhere and ended up buying new.
They are like Ronford Tripods.. They hold their value and last forever.
 
We recently purchased an Arrow 55. After my experience with an Arrow 25, I've found Miller Arrow to perhaps be the best price for performance. It can handle up to 50 lbs. I'm extemely picky about the action/resistance on a head and I found this head to be one of the smoothest. I like it's motion better than Sachtler (except 9x9). It has real fluid modules (not friction plates).

We bought it with the Heavy Duty CF's. Together, it's light, stiff and packs quite small. Goes almost as low as baby legs. Baseplate has a good 4" of travel as well. Stay away from the lighter Sprinter Legs. Not stiff enough for prime time.

Personally I think the 1030 is rated to low for RED use unless you're in stripped down mode. I alway think your head should be rated about 10lbs more than your loaded down set up. If money's no object than I'd say go 2060 or 9x9. But on a budget, Miller is quite excellent. It's light enough for run/gun work as well.

Also look out for good used deals as well. You can find Cartoni C20's for 3-4G.
 
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