By now, after following many exchanges on this forum, I am convinced of the qualities of the Steadicam Merlin, enhanced by the Arm and Vest. But there are many circumstances where such a stabilizer cannot be used, such as windy situations.

I have read about the "Shoulder Modes" in the Merlin manual. I would like to know from users if they find these modes are useful and effective, or if I should really consider a separate shoulder mount system?

If it matters, the camcorder I am using is the Canon XH-A1, and I have neither purchased nor used the Merlin (yet).

Thank you!

For placing the weight and bracing the camera against your shoulder, the Merlin in shoulder mode works very well - I paticularly like it when you are using the Accessory Plate which gives you a little more surface area, but the weights alone work well too.
It's great for those handheld shots where you don't want it "handheld palmcorder shakey" but you don't need the stabilization of flying-mode Steadicam.

It definatly works well enough to justify it as a feature.


But if you are looking for a serious shoulder mount for dooing a lot of handheld work - the sort of thing that you want to put zoom controllers, etc.. onto, then you'd need a dedicated shoulder mount.


- Mikko

Filming a wedding I usually track the b&g as they exit the church with the Steadicam and when I get outside if it is windy I fold it up and go into shoulder mount mode. Works very well and is fast to change over.