Comments about Cavision Cavision Spacer for Sony A1U and HC1 Camcorders.:

The Cavision Spacer shortens the time it takes to change a tape on the Sony HVR-A1U. My shooters no longer need to unscrew the base plate to change tape. This time saving is critical when shooting live performances. Not having to grab a screwdriver to remove the base plate from the recorder makes the tape change easier.

The pressure screw (with which another reviewer was not satisfied) requires use of a hex wrench (another tool to pack and possibly misplace when needed most). I'd prefer a longer screw that tightens with a flat head screw driver.

The pressure screw hold the Spacer in place to the base of the recorder and does an adequate job. I'd prefer a pressure screw that holds the Spacer flush to the base.

This is a valuable addition to your Sony HVR-A1U setup.

Comments about Cavision Cavision Spacer for Sony A1U and HC1 Camcorders.:

The "locating pin," i.e., the pin that is supposed to keep the plate from swiveling on the spacer, is too large to fit into the A1U's pin slot, which is a standard size spacer hole.

The Cavision's spacer is the same size as the mounting screw. I corresponded with Cavision's tech support, thinking the wrong spacer was included, and I sent them a photo of it. They said the spacer was correct, it just needs to extend a bit into the hole.

Well, the rounded head of it barely does, but not enough to do what it's supposed to do. My last email to them was asking how then is one supposed to use this with the A1U? They never answered. I think they never even have seen an A1U. If I can find a threaded pin that changes diameter midway, then I may be able to use this. Gaffer tape would be another choice.