OT: Crane / Jib Recommendations

Former user wrote on 4/20/2010, 10:53 AM
Okay, so I'm not a do it yourselfer. I'm not about to build a crane or jib because I'm not so inclined.

That said, I have some budget room to get a smallish crane/jib for my EX1 setup. It will likely be used as much as a small jib as a moderate crane. I've seen some stuff from Glidecam (not overly enthused by it), and Kessler (more interesting).

Anyone have recommendations for a $1000 - $1500 jib/crane rig?

Comments

LongTallTexan wrote on 4/20/2010, 12:53 PM
Kessler is a great crane, but akward and heavy. Pain in the but to get together. I would recomend a jonyjib 2. you can start low and they are expandable up to like 25 ft. or so. Serious looking jib for a great price.

L.T.
farss wrote on 4/20/2010, 2:09 PM
We have two Porta Jib Travellers from Losmandy.
Seeing as how we rent these out I can say they're simple to use and pretty tough. To assemble / pack takes under 5 minutes. Note you do need a solid tripod with a 100mm bowl. The vector bar thing is kind of unique and makes a difference to ease of use and safety.

http://www.porta-jib.com/traveller.htm

Bob.
Baron Oz wrote on 4/20/2010, 8:22 PM
I have the 12' Kessler crane plus their tripod and motorized head. Very sturdy and no camera shake. With wheels it becomes a great dolly as well. All of it (except the counterweights) packs into two 12"x12"x4' bags. I used this for a production in NYC for a vitamin company and also for a music video, have a look at Very happy with it and would buy their 18' extension if I ever needed it.

Ted
Former user wrote on 4/20/2010, 10:03 PM
Thanks for all the recommendations guys. Sadly, where I am there isn't much "in stock" with local dealers except for the Glidecam 200 crane/jib. It's nice enough, but I'll definitely do some shopping and make some calls. I've been curious about the Kessler stuff just based on their portadolly (which looks really interesting).

Thanks again all,
Andreas

ps: if anyone else has any ideas...please speak up!

Baron: which motorized head do you have?
Rory Cooper wrote on 4/20/2010, 10:32 PM
Try these guys

http://www.thecinecity.com/tcc/product.php?productid=214&cat=293&page=1

I’ve ordered some stuff from them in the past and very quick delivery nice place to go if you are a small setup
Former user wrote on 4/21/2010, 1:06 PM
I am a small setup, and jeez louise, that price is pretty good, especially with a motorized head. I'll definitely have to give these guys a call. Thx!
Former user wrote on 4/27/2010, 12:34 PM
Just a quick follow-up. All things considered (including duty and shipping), these guys really seem to have a good deal, so I've taken the plunge and placed and order.

Thanks for the recommendations everyone...I'll keep you posted on the results.