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Tiffen’s Volt System is supposed to reinforce an present Steadicam rig with horizontal stabilization, permitting the operator to seamlessly change between totally guide and assisted operation. At Cine Gear 2024, we had an opportunity to speak with Nick from Tiffen and get an up-close take a look at the most recent model of their Volt line, the Volt 3. Whereas it’s nonetheless solely a prototype, Model 3 has an fascinating new function. Let’s see what it has to supply! Nick identified that an issue with digital stabilization programs is that if the operator needs one thing completely different than the system, it will probably result in a number of second-guessing and repeated tries. Nonetheless, the attraction of a Steadicam just like the M-2 lies in its immediacy, permitting the operator to work straight with what they see by the lens with out having to coordinate with one other operator on wheels or a dolly (or a pc system), for instance. With the Volt 3, they aimed to protect this immediacy whereas providing extra management in managing the third axis in more difficult areas. In response to operator suggestions about awkwardness throughout excessive tilts and difficult circumstances like heavy winds, a motor has been added to assist management the pan. Steadicam Volt 3. Credit score: CineDNick talked about that there was substantial suggestions on the prototype, with focus nonetheless on sustaining operator management as within the earlier fashions. Now the objective is to have the ability to fine-tune the added motor to a person operator’s preferences with out having to show to outdoors apps and software program. In different phrases, Nick stated it ought to work like an “operator’s assistant,” nonetheless leaving the operator totally in charge of the framing whereas getting some assist in sustaining the horizon stage and conserving the sled in impartial stability, for instance. With this line of pondering, they’ve prioritized integrating controls as {hardware} straight on the unit wherever doable.The controls on the Volt 3 prototypeThe unit is designed to really feel very like a fluid head, with the assistance of the brand new motor offering the flexibility to comfortably keep the place set. To allow this, there are at the moment 4 controls on the facet of the unit – Pan, Tilt, Roll, and Damp. (Nick identified that these controls will certainly change as they obtain extra suggestions.) The Damp management could be tuned in order that it’s very robust, much like “utilizing a gyro on the underside for these loopy conditions, like a automobile mount,” as Nick states. It will also be tuned method right down to really feel like a frictionless bearing.Within the sub-menu, inertia could be managed so the rig can really feel lighter or heavier, as wanted. Braking is a brand new operate to the Volt 3 that works like drag in a fluid head. Braking stress could be set and adjusted to maneuver the sled, however as soon as it’s free, it strikes like a standard sled till you need it to cease. That is helpful for any scenario the place you want the rig to be very strong.Which sleds will work with Volt 3?Volt 3 shall be appropriate with M-2 sleds solely. The management board shall be contained in the M-2 and could be positioned inside present M-2s by sending the system in to be modified. At the moment, there shall be no exterior management field, however the firm is dedicated to releasing one sooner or later in order that Volt 3 will work with older sleds. That stated, he emphasised that the present Volt items on provide won’t be discontinued, and as Volt 3 is a brand new, totally digital gimbal, some operators could even select to maintain their guide unit as a backup.Tiffen Steadicam Volt 3. Credit score: CineDPricing and availabilityThere is not any pricing at the moment given as they’re too early within the design part, however the present gimbals are priced at round $12,000. The intention is to launch Volt 3 by the tip of 2024.What do you concentrate on the Steadicam Volt 3 new digital gimbal? Is it one thing you may be excited by as a Steadicam person? Tell us within the feedback!
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