Sachtler DV8/100 with Canon XH A1 at DVinfo.net

Garrett Low · June 25th, 2008, 12:06 PM

I may have a chance to pick up a used Sachtler DV8/100 with single stage legs. Would my camera be too light for this setup? For now I only have the camera, a quick release plate, and shotgun mic on the tripod. I am considering getting an external VF and maybe a HD or solid state capture unit in the future.

Thanks for your input.

Tim Le · June 26th, 2008, 06:56 PM

It depends on whether this DV8 is a SpeedBalance model. Early versions of the DV8 did not have SpeedBalance and only had around 5 counterbalance steps. If I recall correctly, your camera would be too light for this head, even at the lowest setting.

If it is a SpeedBalance model, then you should be okay. You can tell if it's SpeedBalance by the labels on the side of the head and the number of counterbalance steps. It should say "DV8 SB" on the side and "SpeedBalance" in the center. The counterbalance has 12 steps.

Garrett Low · June 27th, 2008, 02:11 PM

Thanks Tim,

I was thinking that would be the case. I think I'll look for a used Miller DS10. That seems to fit my price range and camera.

June 25th, 2008, 12:06 PM	#1
Garrett Low Trustee Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Novato, CA Posts: 1,774	Sachtler DV8/100 with Canon XH A1 I may have a chance to pick up a used Sachtler DV8/100 with single stage legs. Would my camera be too light for this setup? For now I only have the camera, a quick release plate, and shotgun mic on the tripod. I am considering getting an external VF and maybe a HD or solid state capture unit in the future. Thanks for your input.

June 26th, 2008, 06:56 PM	#2
Tim Le Major Player Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 350	It depends on whether this DV8 is a SpeedBalance model. Early versions of the DV8 did not have SpeedBalance and only had around 5 counterbalance steps. If I recall correctly, your camera would be too light for this head, even at the lowest setting. If it is a SpeedBalance model, then you should be okay. You can tell if it's SpeedBalance by the labels on the side of the head and the number of counterbalance steps. It should say "DV8 SB" on the side and "SpeedBalance" in the center. The counterbalance has 12 steps.

June 27th, 2008, 02:11 PM	#3
Garrett Low Trustee Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Novato, CA Posts: 1,774	Thanks Tim, I was thinking that would be the case. I think I'll look for a used Miller DS10. That seems to fit my price range and camera.