Merlin Video Rail Slider Video Review

In this video review, I take a look at the Merlin Video Rail Slider Camera Dolly. 

Features:

  • Dolly features 8 wheels for smooth tracking
  • 4 of the bottom wheels can be removed for tabletop use
  • 3/8’ and 1/4’ mounting options
  • Included rails are 3 feet long
  • Height and angle of rails can be fully adjusted
  • Rails can mount on 2 tripods

After testing this rail system for a few weeks, I definitely say I’m impressed. The included wheels are extremely smooth, and just the fact that keeping the DIY community in mind while designing this product makes it the best system I’ve seen so far. Other systems on the market typically include a proprietary set of rails that can only be upgraded if you purchase a new set from the manufacturer. With the Merlin Dolly, you can easily use a plank of wood or your own rails to accommodate any length you need.

Overall, this is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a dolly system that can easily be customised to fit your needs. With it’s fantastic build quality and extremely smooth wheels, this is simply an amazing product.

    Be sure to check out the demo below:

    CamCaddie Scorpion Review

    After testing the CamCaddie Scorpion for a few weeks now, I can definitely say I’m impressed. The Scorpion was designed to provide a low cost solution to stabilising video and mounting more accessories to your camera. Regardless of how simple it’s design may seem, surprisingly it can stabilise video quite nicely. I tested this rig with a Canon 550D and will be uploading my results in the coming days.

    As for accessories, CamCaddie offers an Accessory Shoe, Accessory Wing & 1/4-20 Converter in a kit for $49. With these 3 accessories, you can mount virtually any camera accessory to the Scorpion with ease. I tested these accessories with a considerable amount of heavy accessories and it proved to hold up without any problems. This kit seems like the best solution if you plan on mounting external monitors, microphones and lights.

    Note: A full list of accessories available at the CamCaddie store.

    This camera mount can be configured in numerous positions as well.

    Example: If you are looking for low angle shots, you can mount the camera facing forward and hold the Scorpion from the top to keep the camera close to the ground. For a two hand grip configuration, turn the camera on it’s side, use your right hand to secure the camera and your left to hold the Scorpion.


    Overall, as a low cost mounting system for your camera, I really think this is the perfect choice for anyone looking to stabilise video and add numerous accessories to your camera at once. If you would like to pick one up, head over to CamCaddie.com and be sure to check back in a few days for the a full video demo of this product.

    Editors Note: I am having issues uploading the video at the moment, so hopefully I can get that sorted before the end of the week. If not, I’ll upload it on Vimeo.

    Lexar Reveals 64 GB and 128 GB SDXC Cards For Spring 2011

    For the professionals looking for the highest capacity an SD card can offer, Lexar has finally announced they will be releasing 64 GB and 128 GB Class 10 SDXC cards in the first quarter of 2011. The product is mainly aimed for professionals looking to shoot high-resolution images and HD video.

    If you are looking to purchase one of these cards, you’ll be spending $400 for the 64 GB and $700 for the 128 GB.