Just been reading lots of old posts on Steadicams, Glidecams, Magiqcams, and so on. I'm now thinking that the Steadicam JR would probably be best for me (I use a PDX-10) but I'm still thinking about the Glidecam 2000, with the forearm brace.

Whilst there are plenty of comments I couldn't find any direct comparisons between the two, either here or from Google. Has anyone used both, and/or have any views on how they compare?

I realise that the Steadicam JR is more expensive, but it includes a monitor.

Well I cannot compare, but I can comment on the Glidecam2k.

I just setup mine and fine tuned it to 99% perfection. My only complaint is the weight. My arm/wrist starts to ache pretty quickly. I'm sure after some use, I'll develop the new muscles required to carry it. The forearm brace or body pod must be a great addon.

My test footage is super smooth. The product works as advertised. There is a bit of a learning curve to handling the device while running/walking/etc., mostly to do with framing/composing the shot while watching your step too.

Because I have a very lightweight DV camcorder attached to it (1.1 lb), I had to go to the hardware store and purchase some extra bottom weights in smaller weight increments. I also had to have some sheet metal cut and drilled to add to the top to make the camcorder heavier. The manufacturer suggests 2-2.5 lbs minimum camcorder weight. I also added a bogen/manfrotto 3270 adapter plate to the top so that I can quick release the camcorder without "undoing" the Glidecam top plate setting.

Hope this helps,
warren

Thanks for the feedback Warren. If I went for the Glidecam 2000 I would certainly get the forearm brace to go with it. Right now I'm leaning towards the Steadicam JR though.

And yes, I hear that both are good for acquiring new muscles. I'll have to remember to change arms regularly so I don't end up with one bigger than the other.

Pat

you ought to take a look at the HCS-PRO, I use it regularly with the PDX-10 and would recommend it over the JR, which is heavier and more expensive, although not as cool looking.

It uses a frictionless mechanism (a needle in a cup- just like Garrett Brown first imagined)


http://www.b-hague.co.uk/Camcorder%20Stabilizer%20HCS3.htm

Thanks for the link John. It seems that there are plenty of these type of devices around now. I'd never heard of this one before.