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The Steadicam Merlin, the innovative new handheld stabilizer for camcorders, has been named honoree in the CES Innovations 2006 Design and Engineering Awards competition. This annual competition honors outstanding design and engineering in consumer electronics and will be featured at the Sands Expo and Convention Center during the 2006 International Consumer Electronics Show.
With camera attached (Sony Handycam HC-32), the Steadicam Merlin weighs only 35 oz, or less than the weight of other hand-holdable systems without camera or weights attached! In fact, with Sony´s HDR FX-1 Hi-Def camcorder aboard, Merlin adds only 2.5 lbs, or a total weight of only 6.5 lbs!
Exclusive to Merlin, is its patent pending ‘Folding Caliper’ hinge. The Folding Caliper easily extends and retracts to balance cameras ranging from 8 ounces to a formidable five pounds, yet automatically seeks the true folded position for storage or shoulder mount use and incredibly, returns to the correct balance point when again opened!
Merlin’s versatility extends even further, with its universal dovetail plate. The rigid multi-tapped plate is designed to accept an extensive range of cameras, from the latest ultra compact DV’s to larger, feature rich HDV cameras. Its three position lever permits rapid camera mounting and removal from Merlin’s micrometer trim stage, coarse balance adjustments while affixed to the stage, and positive attachment of the camera. When
locked to the micrometer trim stage, precise fore and aft, plus side to side horizontal balance are then easily accomplished. And, if required, the camera and plate can be affixed to any tripod using Merlin’s accessory tripod mounting plate.
Also included with the Steadicam Merlin, are five precision threaded stainless steel balance weights and two tapered end weights for cameras weighing less than four pounds. An accessory kit adds a short extension tube and three additional weights for cameras up to five pounds.
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