On the wire issue, I was thinking exactly of the mass issue...the larger rigs have more mass, therefore likely less of an issue with cables. The cable that ties the focus unit to the control unit is currently CAT6 network cable (to allow low cost extensions) and is fairly light, and flexible (no coils though Bob). We've got the control unit mass under 600 grams or so, to keep it usable on smaller stabilized rigs. I'm not sure we can do a wireless version at the current price point though.

In any case, I'll need another few months in the gym regardless of any focus devices. It's hard to pull focus when the camera operator is face down on the ground hyperventilating :-) I'm going to predict steadicam operation will be the next big Hollywood workout craze next to pilates.

Charles & others in the know:

Wouldn't it be possible to counteract this particular problem--low flying mass--by the augmentation of rinky-dink (weightwise) cameras with extra mass? Some bags with lead pellets in them, in other words?

Lead is the right idea, but not in bags that can shift as you tilt the camera. I myself have an 8 lb lead plate that I've used under medium weight cameras; I know of others who have chunkier plates that will convert the average 1/3" camera to the mass of a light 35mm camera, so that it can be flown on a full-size rig with the proper performance.

Optimum weight is a personal choice. I believe that a camera package around 24 lbs is as light as I'd want for most feature-type work (but for concerts or running shots, could be as light as half that). A rig that weighs quite a bit less will always be more "touchy" or "squirrely", and in some ways harder to operate.

With a small rig, there is always the problem of maximum payload (my rig will manage an IMAX camera and yes, I've been there done that!) so each system has it's preferred setup...those who own Tiffen Flyers, for instance, might have to strip a camera down to keep the arm afloat.

Incidentally, here's a commercially available series of weight plates. Also check out the link to their cage, which is a setup we have long used at the workshops or at home when practicing with a little handheld camera or surveillance camera.