Trost Slider vs. Dana Dolly

[Med D]

I am finding that the Trost slider is not as stable as I would like when used with a tripod and a lighter-weight stand. It works OK that way, but it just does not feel safe on set. Particularly when people who are not familiar with the combination use it I feel there is a lot of risk of the entire thing tipping over. I know that Dana Dolly type stands, including the new MSE slider stands, would make the slider totally bomber, but here is my dilemma -- if I need to carry two of those big stands I would rather have a Dana Dolly. Half of the benefit of the Trost was supposed to be that it uses a tripod and hence less added gear, but I am not seeing that benefit.

I know the Trost gives different motion as compared to a DD. For sure the Trost is more controlled and it can be used at angles. Other than that though does anyone prefer the Trost over a DD? I seem to run into the Dana Dolly on productions constantly and some DPs seem to like living on them for the duration.

If you take the stands out of the equation I think the DD is actually easier to transport than the Trost. This too pushes me towards the DD.

I'm interested in what others think. Am I missing some utility that the Trost or any similar slider adds?

 

[Phil Holland]

I find they are different tools. Which is fine.

Now that the Dana Dolly has a fixed, bolt-on 100mm bowl it's become very portable for me. I keep it in a much smaller case than the larger "rental case". And I leave the rod clamps/supports attached to the Matthews Slider Stands. Which I haven't quite got around t getting a case or bag for just yet, mostly because they can be just thrown in the truck. Outside of that it's just a matter of track at that point. For tiny things I use 2 lengths of rail and earlier this year I actually invested in Dana Dolly's new track and travel kit (needed the length and portability).

I haven't found any reason to get rid of my Dana Dolly yet. It's simple and mostly bullet proof. And it's wider transport platform keeps the ever important center of gravity down, which is where a lot of the smaller sliders are "missing" the boat. There's a reason why it's one of the most "emulated" designs and that's pretty much the biggest one.

 

[Ruff]

Dana Dolly is excellent.

For sliders, have a look at 'The Original Slider'

It's expensive, and different to the Trost one, but it's pretty hard to beat.

 

[Mike Garrick]

No decision DD portable, fast, versatile, sturdy, dead smooth and most importantly allows for upto 6m tracking. Everything a slider isn't.

 

[Josh Tyron]

I have them both and I use them both a lot. I use the trost for more close up and subtle shots. I use the DD for more dramatic moves and push ins.