Steadicam
 

Anyone use one with the HD100? What about that asian guy's 14 dollar stedicam? Not compatible? Anyone endeavour to use that combo? Aside from the 14 dollar steadicam is there any other solution under 1k?

Your friend,

Mista Meyers from da SEYCHELLESSSSSZ er...

MALDIVEZZZZZZZ

If you stripped the camera down (remove the viewfinder, use the onboard batteries etc.) you might be able to use it for a while on a handheld stabilizer, but be aware that the $14 stabilizer is not as lightweight as a "real" unit like the Merlin so you'll be looking at some sore forearms and shorter shooting times. The HD100 would be best suited to a more robust rig that incorporates a vest and arm; none of which are available for under $1000 that I know of (unless you can find something used).

Glidecam has a very attractive price for the vest unit. I think it's somewhere around $1400-$1700

Although I've never used one myself, the demo videos look great... even on the handheld models for around $300-$500