Pros, Cons and Summary
Pros
- Cheaper than a 15mm rail system.
- Light weight.
- Requires only a few accessories to setup.
- Transportable as a DSLR rig package.
- Open system that allows access to ports, cables, battery compartments, etc.
- Accessories are easily available for purchase.
- Minimalist DSLR rig can be attached to other systems like a shoulder rig, slider, etc. that has a 1/4 thread screw mount.
Cons
- Doesn’t feel solid or secure as a package when transporting. I have to hold both the camera and the flash bracket when carrying.
- System is dependant on the strength and durability of the accessories such as the flash bracket and tripod mounts of the camera and portable audio recorder.
- Attaching the magic arm onto the Tascam Dr-60d portable recorder places strain on the Dr-60d’s top mount and unbalances the weight of the system to the side of the 7 inch monitor. Recommend attaching the magic arm to the tripod itself with a clamp.
Summary
This was an affordable way for me to have my DSLR rig setup on a tripod without having to spend hundreds of dollar on a 15mm rail system equivalent. I am still able to transport my setup as a package and access all ports, compartments, buttons, etc. with minimal fuss when in use.
This minimalist approach is perfect for me since I do not use a matte box or follow focus system in my DSLR setup.
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