Varizoom VZRock Problems?
 

I just purchased a Varizoom VZ-Rock LANC controller for my XL2 and the zoom is horribly choppy. Because it is so jerky, I think the unit is defective. Have others had problems or heard of problems similar to this? I'm sending it back to B&H but wondering if I should buy another one or go with the Canon ZR-1000. The Canon isn't as pretty as the Varizoom and the zoom isn't a nice rocker switch. Thoughts? Thanks!

I have heard great things about the Varizoom unit (used with an XL2) so I believe that yours is defective. I use the Manfrotto 523Pro controller and like the performance. This is pretty subjective so I think an interested buyer should try several before choosing.

I use the VZ-Rock with the XL-2 with no problems.
Sorry yours is giving you a problem.

Bill

I, like Bill, use the VZ RocK with an XL2.

The zoom speed is variable. Light touch=slow, heavier touch=fast.

It sounds like you may have a defective controller.

I'm not familiar with the Canon ZR-1000 so no help there.

I had the VZ rock, but it was not consistent enough, so I traded it in for VZ Pro-L controller, which is perfect.

Nice steady control, not based on pressure but a speed wheel which can be varied in real time if you know how to do it.

Thanks everyone for the feedback. The sales rep at B&H had mentioned the Varizoom was returned often because it was defective which gave me the impression that perhaps it was a lower quality product. I just received the Canon ZR-1000 in the mail and it doesn't fit my Bogen tripod handle so I think I'll try the Varizoom again. I like the Varizoom company and have heard only great things about their products.

I'm not pushing the product line but the Manfrotto unit I mentioned above is distributed by Bogen....just like your tripod. The 523Pro should work well with your sticks. That's one of the reasons I use it.