I have a spider brace and it's ok.... It's a pain that there isn't a mount that accepts a tripod base plate though as it takes up a fair amount of time to change from tripod mount to Spider Brace...I usually just go handheld for run and gun and brace the cam against myself

I use the Spiderbrace + Manfrotto/Bogen Quick Release Adapter
& the new Manfrotto/Bogen 521PROi Lanc remote
(http://www.dvinfo.net/forum/remote-l...manfrotto.html)
Works like a charm

Vasco

The Birns & Sawyer handy cam shoulder mount is simple and it works....

you can get it at birnsandsawyer.com
b&hphoto.com
filmtools.com

I use the CB-05 - inexpensive, simple and solid. There's a review thread here:

http://www.dvinfo.net/forum/shoulder...der-mount.html

The one weakness is that you can't see through the XH-A1 viewfinder when mounted - you have to use the built-in LCD.

I use a Manfrotto 577 quick release plate with it for convenience.

Can't help you with the Canon but I am thinking of the ST-7 for my EX-3. I know Phil Bloom likes the ST-7 he tried. Check it out on his blog The best shoulder mount I have used for my Sony EX3 by far.

It should help you get the idea as the EX-3 and the XL-H1/s/a are similar handling.

H38 Fluid Head fit the 577 QR adapter?
 

I have a Libec LS-38M tripod with a H38 Fluid Head. I recently bought a CB-105 and need a quick release. Does the 577 Quick Release Adapter Assembly work with the H38 head? I read all the B&H reviews and couldn't find the answer.

Thanks for any help.

Nevermind
 

I found an old bogen 501 plate in my closet and it looks like it will fit my libec, FYI.

Shoulder Brace
 

I use the canon neck brace, it works well for me.

Try the el cheapo, very cheap and does the job Hand Free Shoulder Pad Support 4 Camcorder Video Camera on eBay (end time 08-Nov-09 10:15:46 GMT)

The Spiderbrace does work with the Manfrotto 577 quick release adapter.

You need to mount the Spiderbraces 1/4" bolt into the 3/8" hole underneath the base plate. You will first need to screw in a 3/8" to 1/4" adapter. Then you will only have 180 degrees of capacity on the 577s locking bolt, which is just enough to loosen to release and tighten to lock down.

So the big question is, how comfortable are you mounting your camera, light, mic and accessories onto a shoulder brace with just a tiny bit of metal holding it all together. Well if you shoot horizontally, then the camera pressure is evenly flat down against gravity so no problem.....and locking on/off onto your 501 or whatever is fast and easy.

But if you need to tilt vertically a lot, then the pressure is against the mounting screw and adapter, and maybe this isn't for you.

You may find with practice that the best and most comfortable way to shoot is through the viewfinder. I do. The camera can be held steadier and for longer. Both hands are near all the controls, it is easier to focus, it works in bright sunlight and it is easier to set exposure levels. I use the screen when on a tripod, but use the eye piece set exposure and focus. On the tripod the screen is good for following action. Not the answer you wanted to you question but I hope it helps.

Cheers Alan.