magiqcam with canon XL2

[wayne granzin]

i bought a second hand magiqcam llp. and the previous owner used a dv100acamera with it (just under 5 pounds)
im using an XL2 that is nearly 8 pounds.  and im having a bear of a time getting it to work properly with the arm - the sled/gimbal balances perfectly on the c stand
but when i strap on the vest and connect the arm and all, everything pulls down very low and thearm wants to extend fully forward.

do i need to tighten the springs, or maybe replace the springs with heavier versions???

any thoughts would help

thanX - wayne, in houston

[Trevor Crump]

Hi Wayne Magiqcam either IIa or IIp will handle XL2 without too much difficulties, the arm running away is a socket block issue. IF you have an adjustable socket block start there. 2 little thumb nobs are the adjustment for what you are discribing.

Correct arm height should be the 2 parts of the arm work best if slightly below each other.
Start with the lower part of the vest, once you have this right for YOU, then set the arm (slightly low)
then the socket block to stop side movement,
then second adjusters for away movement.

The springs that are in your rig are fine (unless somone else swapped them)

[wayne granzin]

i dont have the socketblock. just the pin that goes through the bearings.  i think the socketblock is a feature of the lll model...

wonder if maybe im wearing the vest too low?

[Trevor Crump]

OK the only adjustment you have is for sideways movement, 2 small srews/bolts. unfortunatly the arm will run away (and very quickly) and you can do very little about it. just HANG ON to the arm.

I use a IIa, same problem, but you will get used to it.

I don't know what changes were made to you rig, but watch the webbing to vest points, mine pulled out, I had to make new ones.

We carry an xl fully loaded with Vid transmitter, wireless audio input, at times video light, lead acid battery, all up 20-22kgs including vest.

if you are getting pogo effect walking forward, check the lower vest for correct hight, just adjust up or down till you find the place that it works for you.

Good luck and stay in touch if I can help with anything else.