HC5 tripod & lanc recommendations
 

Hey -

I just got my new HC5 and need a good tripod and lanc setup. I was going to go with a Bogen 3051 but this cam is so tiny, I think it's now overkill. The lanc has to operate the focus, too, which many controllers don't.

Looking at stealthzoom for the lanc...

What are you using, how well does it work, any recommendations?

Thx

Hi Art -

I believe the camera would have to have a "focus" function via the LANC to be able to adjust it with a remote (and yes it would be cooler than the mini roller do-hicky (which the 5 doesn't have) or the touchscreen... but I'd check your manual to see - I don't recalll seeing that capability having an "external" interface on any of my HC series... or in the manual for the 5/7.

DB>)

I have a varizoom - vz stealth with my hvr a1u, i love it and yes it can operate focus as well -


http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...ughType=search

If your looking for a simpler tripod with lanc, I'm pretty sure sony makes some.

Sony VCT870RM does this and seems to be pretty popular with owners of HDV camcorders. They have other models too. Sony has used the 870 to show off their A1U, and it's not terribly expensive either.

That mysterious LANC port
 

The RM series are nice tripods, but if he needs to be able to control focus... it does appear that the varizoom controller will do that - as long as it works with the camera. Another poster indicates it will - seems like a relatively cheap way to get a focus controller that is usable on the 5. Makes me start to ponder what ELSE can be accessed via the LANC port...

I know I found that the sports packs (for an HC3 and others) use a LANC port "hidden" in the "D" shaped A/V jack. I'm going to have to go back and look at the schematics more closely - see what OTHER control interfaces might be "hidden" within that mysterious "LANC" connnector.

Anyone out there have a comprehensive listing of the capabilities of a LANC port? I presume it is a "standard", and is published somewhere?

DB>)

I use the Velbon DV-7000 and the IR-Controller. It also works from behind.

I'm new to the forums and am looking at the HC5 (possibly two) as an upgrade from my two TRV-840's. I'm also looking at getting a LANC zoom controller and would like also to know if these cameras will work with focus control. I was looking at this controller, http://www.studio1productions.com/zoom_controller.htm, and would be interested in a list of LANC support on the HC5. I do see in the owners guide that it (HC5) supports manual focus, and so the controller I'm looking at should work. Thanks for any input.

Thanks,
Grant

I'm reading that most will work with the HC1/3/5/7 cams...In fact, I've never read about any problem. Just make sure you can return it should anything surprising happen.