Used Manfrotto 585 Modosteady, 3-in-1 Multifunction Camcorder Stabilization System, Supports 1.7 lbs.

2010-07-25T21:00:00

I tried this with the Canon HV20 and it was easy to set-up and use. It also packed fairly well in the existing camera bag I use. It's NOT as smooth as the PRO SteadiCam Merlin, etc., but for the cost you pay you get a decent alternative in a 3-in-one unit. The build quality is good and appropriate for the size and weight of the cameras it supports. In the end, I'm glad I bought it. Now I need to try it with those HD DSLR's!

BRUCE C.

2010-05-23T21:00:00

will not decrease hand fatique.

Farrukh

2010-01-12T19:00:00

The design of the Modosteady is great and it folds up nicely to fit into my camera bag. The quick release plate is not very quick.The Modosteady does not work very well as a steady cam however, if you are willing to play with it and keep your thumb on the back of the plate, you can make it perform decently. Just don't expect a true steady cam for [$]. It works better as a shoulder stabilizer and offers a nice way to hold a small video camera steadier than simply hand holding. It also works pretty good as a table top tripod. I am keeping it because it does work fairly well but don't expect miracles

MEP

2010-01-09T19:00:00

I've seen a lot of negative things said about this product on YouTube, but what most don't understand is that any stabilization device like this requires a learning curve, despite the manufactures video making it look easy. I watched the Merlin videos, a unit that is 8 times the price, it too requires some self-taught training. However, I did jury-rig an addition clamp midway on the arm to add more weight, something that's on the Merlin, solving some of the stabilizing problems I was having. I think for the price and the number of times I will actually use it, it's a great value.

Tony C.

2009-02-06T19:00:00

If you do not expect the world from this little device, you will not be disappointed. Do not expect for this to work with a WA adapter, microphone, and a monitor. This is designed for use with just a camcorder as a stabilizer. This is not a replacement for a Merlin, or a Glidecam and its ilk. But for what it does, it does it well as long as you're willing to be patient. You will most likely get disappointing footage right out of the box unless you're well practiced with a stabilizer. My advice is to practice making your moves with just the camera and tape it. Record your movements, and pay attention to what works and what doesn't. And remember that every stabilizer made requires practice to get great, smooth movement. The Modosteady can deliver smooth footage for the price with practice. The shoulder-brace aspect is handy to have, and I can think of a few good uses for the "tripod" mode. Your mileage may vary. The construction is very solid. The folding points give a hearty snap when locked into position and the arm pivot maintains its position quite well. I pulled it out of my camera bag the other day perfectly balanced and ready to go after unfolding. The two things that work against the Modosteady are the only real negatives in my opinion. The ball "gimble" does suffer from minor friction issues that are unavoidable with the design. I've found that spraying a shot of silicon lube into the socket helps tremendously. The other issue is one of precision. There is side-to-side adjustment, but not front-back adjustment. The weights are few and large, which makes fine-tuning the counter weight extremely difficult. If you are patient and creative (and if you're not, what are you doing in this field?), the Modosteady will find a place in your gear collection. If you are on a tight budget and just need something to smooth out your handheld shots, this product works well. If you have a large camera and/or lots of on-camera accessories, I would advise saving your pennies and getting a more robust stabilizer, but don't dismiss this handy tool if you happen to have the extra money or find one at a good price. Even with a Steadicam Merlin on your A-roll camera, this device could be handy for steady B or C-roll.

Chuck

2009-02-06T19:00:00

I bought the Manfrotto 585 Modosteady 3 in 1 system to use with my HD FlipMino. I was immediately impressed with the ease of use and versatility in functions; being able to quickly go from the stabilizing open adjustment to the folded up steady shoulder support in just a few simple twists and turns, is great! The rubberized grip is easy to hold for extended lengths of time. The grip breaks out into a tabletop tripod in no time, which is perfect for getting yourself into the picture. The 3 in 1 System is so lightweight it can be easily folded up and stowed in luggage or a backpack for the next trip. I don't have to wait for my next vacation though to take steady and stable videos and photos.

Note B.

2009-01-22T19:00:00

I feel very good with that product

jjulio