The Opteka CXS-1
As you can see though, with a counterweight added, the contour of the shoulder pad will eventually allow you to balance a Camera like the GH2 (as seen in the video). I'm using my DIY counterweight from my other rig just mounted to an already existing slot in the rear of the shoulder pad. The slot allows me to slide the weight left and right to level out the balance too.
Offset a bit more by using just two bolts
The build quality is pretty nice, especially for the price using all metal components with an anodized finish. If you're a first time DSLR shooter with light accessories or have a lightweight camcorder, this type of stabilizer should suit you fine. It's also one of the better looking 'cheap' shoulder supports out there. There is only so much horizontal offset and vertical height adjustments, so depending on your frame, you may not be able to get the camera to the 'exact' position you need. Quick release adapters, battery grips, or DSLR's with variable LCD's should help correct some of that lack of positioning. You can choose to use just two of the hex bolts instead of three if you want to get a bit more 'inset' or 'offset'.
No padding on stage
The handle can be removed and inserted directly into a camera if you're looking to shoot without the shoulder support. The stage is also not 'padded' so if you're experiencing some slippage, you'll need to DIY some type of cushion to the stage. Cork or a rubber pad should suffice. Being that the shoulder pad is an all metal build, it would be very easy to drill some new accessory mounts for your portable audio recorders or wireless receivers. There are a few large clamp knobs that should allow you to break it down into a few smaller pieces if you need to pack it up for traveling. Overall the Opteka is a great lightweight stabilizer for the price, and you'll be hard pressed to find something that looks as polished in it's price range.
Opteka CXS-1 Video Shoulder Stabilizer Support System for DSLR Cameras & Camcorders
JOSE
Thinking about one of these, to be paired with a Canon 5D Mark II + a battery grip. Any feedback on that combo? Thanks in advance
Terry Wilson
Just bought one. It's an utterly flawed design for DSLR use with viewfinders. Why? Even at MAXIMUM extension, the rails are only level with the shoulder pad.
Last time I checked, every human being has their eyes at least 6-12 inches higher up than their shoulder. So be prepared to massively hunch your shoulders, pass out after 3 mins and spend far too much money on masseurs fixing your busted shoulder.
Alksion
Tony! Great review, I can't wait till mine comes in!
Tony Carretti
Emm,
I just got mine! It's actually very nice for the price. Here's a short review I did of mine with a T2i, battery grip, Tamron 17-50, and a clone lcdvf on it:
https://www.vimeo.com/18311119
Thanks for the heads up! Mentioned your site in the video so hopefully will push more folks your way so I'm not the only one spending all my money!!
Tony
Alksion
Oh you should also post another video with a it a little more in action!
Alksion
True, do you think a sporting goods store would have some decent weights?
Emm
Post author@Alkison - This is what I used: httpss://cheesycam.com/diy-shoulder-rig-counter-weight-system/
But if you have accessories like a power pack, wireless receiver, or even portable audio recorders, you can try mounting them as weights. I guess you'll have to mount your camera first to see how much more weight you'll need to off set it.
Alksion
I just ordered it, so what is the best recommendation for adding a counter weight?
Emm
Post author@Joakim T - Yeah, I mentioned battery grips and quick release adapter plates, would help bring up some of that missing height. Otherwise, a block of wood? LOL.
Joakim T
Bought this last week and noticed the height adjustment was slightly too short for me. Do you have any ideas for a diy riser? Thanks!
diputs
I must say that I hate your website because I am spending money every day I log on.
I purchased this shoulder rig last week. Purchased the fluid video head. Purchased the Z96 LED light, Purchased the friction arm mount. Purchased a Liliput monitor.
As much as I love the information you post, I just cannot keep coming back if I do not want to become broke.
Thanks for all your posts.
Emm
Post author@ophuls - Not that I know of.
ophuls
So I've been trying out the products you recommend lately, particularly the Flycam nano, and I was wondering: Is there a way to display a passive crosshair on the Canon t2i's LCD interface while recording video? Been looking through a lot of menu options to no avail.
Emm
Post author@Richard - Shoulder rigs aren't designed for best walking. You can try to loosen the chest clamp and let it balance over the shoulder.
Aberz
Do you think we could hack the flycam nano into the grip ?
richard
can you walk around your room emm? i noticed that when i used the $24 shoulder support, walking around was always so shaky.
Emm
Post author@Tan - Yes it should work, especially with the grip. This thing lacks the height adjustment, so with a grip you will gain more height, and if it's too high, you have plenty of room to lower it. To get more of an offset, you can two of the hex bolts instead of three. This will allow you to adjust it a bit more in front of you.
Tan
Do you know if a gripped t2i + LCDVF could be off-setted so that the LCDVF is exactly in front of your eye using this rig?
Rabi
Looks very nice, though I *just* picked up the $24 support on your recommendation and am super happy with it.