Professional-quality fluid head for mini-DV and HDV cameras

The FSB 6 is Sachtler’s latest fluid head, designed for mini-DV and HDV camcorders. The FSB 6 uses the same dampening technology as the company’s larger fluid heads. The new system has three dampening steps in both pan and tilt directions, as well as a zero setting, which deactivates dampening and a 10-step counterbalance system. The FSB 6 utilizes Sachtler’s patented Snap & Go Sideload camera plate attachment system for quick transition from tripod mounted to hand-held operation.
For more information, visit www.sachtler.us

LED lights are bright and cool

The new ultra-lightweight Micro from Lightpanels is the perfect lighting tool for today’s compact DV camcorders. This miniature daylight spot gives users luminous, soft, directional output similar to the company’s popular MiniPlus LED production light, and functions as an exceptional eyelight – filling in shadows on a subject’s face and bringing the eyes to life with a truly beautiful quality of light. Weighing less than 110 grams (4 oz.) and measuring 83.8mm x 83.8mm x 38.1mm (3.3” x 3.3” x 1.5”), the Micro produces 1.5 hours of continuous output from just 4 standard or rechargeable batteries. Features include a unique, integrated hot shoe adapter with adjustable tilt mechanism for multiple mounting configurations, integrated on/off dimmer switch for instant 100% to 0% dimming, and a flip-down filter holder.
www.litepanels.com

Fisheye adapter for smaller-size cameras

16x9 Inc. has a new single element fisheye adapter to meet the demands of new higher resolution, compact HD camcorders. The EX Compact Super Fisheye adds 0.4X magnification to the camera’s original lens for a wide-eyed perspective that draws the eye closer to the center of the action. Images take on a convex appearance with exaggerated angles and extreme barrel distortion. With its concise shape and front diameter of 90mm, the Compact Super Fisheye fits on smaller cameras such as the Canon XH-A1, and at only 187 grams (6.6oz.), this ultra-light adapter is an excellent optical tool for handheld work. The unit comes equipped with a 72:62mm step-down ring for mounting to the Sony HVR-Z1U and HDRFX7  and features a convenient 72mm screw-in rear thread that attaches neatly to the front of  most popular HD camcorder lenses.. www.16x9inc.com

A boom pole that’s easy to carry

K-Tek’s popular Avalon Traveler – the first professional boom pole designed to fit in a standard equipment case – is now available in lightweight, high-density carbon graphite. The versatile five-section Traveler stores quickly for easy transportation and extends from a minimum length of just 56cm (22”) to a maximum reach of 2.2 meters (7’8”). Telescoping sections lock together via K-Tek’s proprietary “captive collett” coupling system, for maximum holding power with minimum torque. Constructed of the same high-quality graphite tubing as the awardwinning Klassik boom pole series, the Traveler is ideal for ENG, EFP, and DV production. The K-Tek Graphite Traveler is available unwired or factory wired with a high-quality internal coiled cord and a sturdy male XLR receptacle mounted in the base.
For further information, go to: www.ktekboompoles.com

Unobtrusive “doctor’s bag” to carry your investment safely

Petrol’s new Dr. Petrol camera bag makes it a snap to carry a system fully equipped and ready to go, without disturbing the mic, viewfinder, or mattebox. Inspired by a traditional doctor’s bag, this semi-hard equipment case is uniquely designed to hold contents comfortably and securely, and offer fast and easy access on the job.The hinged top unzips smoothly and opens extra wide to a generous central compartment. Detachable padded dividers secure contents and can be custom configured to hold important accessories. Layers of cushioned fabric safeguard equipment and upper panels of shockproof cold molded laminate provide extra protection. Dr. Petrol is available in six sizes, from the PDRB-1 (for the Panasonic DVX-100/A/B and similar size cameras) to the PDRB-6 (designed to hold Sony’s F-900R/F-950 and similar size cameras).For more information, go to: www.petrolbags.com

F23 accessory mounting system includes a “Waffle”

Solid Design Powered By Band Pro is the groundbreaking new accessory mounting system specifically designed to enhance and complement Sony’s cutting-edge CineAlta F23 camera. Each part has been designed for easy integration, fast, tool-free set-up and configuration changes, and maximum compatibility with equipment from other manufacturers. At the heart of Solid Design is the system’s “Waffle” universal mounting plate. Designed to  replace the standard Sony spacer plate, the Waffle provides support for standard 15mm lightweight iris support rods, and comes with 6-pin  registered accessory mounts for positioning add-ons
on either side of the camera. This multipurpose plate can also be used to provide support for hand grips,  power distribution, lens controls, left and right viewfinder support, on-board monitors, rigging, and more. In 2008, the system will expand to include a series of easy-mounting camera “Quicksessories,” including the Super Bridge sliding studio bridge plates, Viewfinder Support System, low mode/mounting bracket, and Shoulder Mount System. www.bandpro.com