I will be in California this June, and want to test or buy a stabilizer for my Sony EX1. Any tips on the best shops or renting facilities to visit in San Francisco or Los Angeles areas will be appreciated.

I would try the Steadicam Factory in Glendale.

Thanks, Nick - since I will go to Los Angeles, I will definitly take you advice.

yes, the main workshop in glendale is a wonderful place to test-fly anything you want to bring. when I was looking at Archers, a sales associate named Dan was very helpful. I think he may have moved on to greener pastures though.

I own an EX1 and want a Merlin or a Pilot.

- in a car, suppose the Merlin is better
- flying close to the ground, shooting flowers and other small stuff, suppose the Pilot is better

Since I want to do both, I have a dilemma - can´t afford both, even if the west and arm is the same ...