Monitors and viewfinders

cheap ? wireless video transmission solution

klem007 — Tue, 22 May 2012 11:17:38 +0000

http://www.alibaba.com/product-gs/437305544/wireless_hdmi_transmitter_and_receiver_whdi.html

i was looking for a solution to monitor what i'd be filming would i buy a copter, but this can be used elsewhere too i'm sure!

Wireless monitor for cameras with HDMI

Vitaliy_Kiselev — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:44:31 +0000

They have discount now, btw :-)

http://www.adorama.com/FPSCAW.html

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Flashpoint-LCD-8-Monitor-Remote-cameras-HDMI-port-BV81HD-/390361596041

Wireless HDMI and SmallHD DP6

kavadni — Thu, 17 May 2012 11:13:15 +0000

You can get it here:
http://www.amazon.com/Actiontec-Wireless-WiFi-Multi-Room-Video/dp/B005L9ZZ32

Affordable solution for VF LCD issues

brianluce — Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:20 +0000

I've been jonesing for a Cineroid, love those things, but tonight I tried something that seems extremely efficient albeit low tech. $12 drug store Reading Glasses! I'd heard of people using them but had been dismissive. Shooting all day with the VF or LCD is eye tiring and not a great way to go. External monitors can be a hassle too with the flimsy hdmi. Sheesh, cheap reading glasses, huge difference. Still lusting for that Cineroid though.

AJA T-Tap Thunderbolt to HDMI and SDI

kavadni — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:39:56 +0000

Here is the Thunderbolt to HDMI solution from a company I believe to be reputable http://www.aja.com/en/articles/172/

T-TAP provides video professionals an easy setup solution via its simple, single Thunderbolt cable connectivity for both power and data. Offering the ultimate in portability, T-TAP is lightweight and smaller than a standard mobile phone. T-TAP supports everything from SD to HD to 2K and 3D with pristine 10-bit quality, even over HDMI, and all with 8-channel embedded audio. T-TAP includes AJA's renowned Mac drivers and software for integrated compatibility with major software packages from Apple, Adobe, Avid and many more.

"T-TAP delivers uncompromised video and audio quality and tackles a range of media output needs at a very low cost," said Nick Rashby, President, AJA Video Systems. "Packing a lot of power into a remarkably small form factor is what T-TAP is all about."

T-TAP Key Features:

High-speed ThunderboltTM connectivity
10-bit uncompressed 4:2:2 video and audio output
HD/SD SDI and HDMI connectivity supports simultaneous output at incredible 10-bit quality
3D support on HDMI for real-time stereoscopic review without requiring additional hardware
Full 8-channel embedded audio allows for multi-channel playback
Bus-powered via ThunderboltTM connector so no additional power supply required
AJA Mac driver and proven software compatibility
Backed by AJA's quality, reliability and 3-year international warranty

T-TAP will be available soon through AJA's network of worldwide resellers for a cost of $249.00 US. For a complete set of features and technical specifications, please visit www.aja.com.

About AJA Video Systems, Inc. Since 1993, AJA Video has been a leading manufacturer of high-quality and cost-effective digital video interface, conversion, acquisition, and desktop solutions supporting the professional broadcast and post- production markets. With headquarters in Grass Valley, California, AJA maintains an extensive sales channel of dealers and systems integrators around the world. For further information, please see our website www.aja.com.

On set scopes/monitoring with a laptop

Greek_m43 — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 02:09:53 +0000

Hey guys...just wondering if there is a way to monitor a GH2 on a laptop? I was thinking something like Blackmagic's Ultra Scopes or Adobe OnLocation, but through the HDMI. Even just using the laptop as a plain old monitor. I have an Asus G74sx with HDMI and USB3... any suggestions or is this not possible.

Cheers!

Zacuto EVF vs SmallHF DP-4

fetzu — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:37:35 +0000

If you are contemplating on buying an EVF but don't want to invest your $800+ without (over) thinking it, vimeo user "niceladyproductions" has just posted the last chapter in her 3-part Zacuto EVF vs SmallHD DP4 comparison. That's more than half-an-hour of in depth comparison of the two products.

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3:

As for me, I am leaning towards the DP4: It seems to offer "more for less" (the 'flip' version is by default, switchable battery plates). Even though I haven't completely made up my mind.. yet.

Any personal-view zacuto and/or smallhd users here with opinion/input/advice?

Swivi 5.6" Monitor

artiswar — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 12:54:37 +0000

http://m.gizmodo.com/5898039/add-a-massive-56+inch-lcd-display-to-your-dslr

Seems interesting and a good price point.

Amuse VL7 7" HDMI monitor with peaking

DrDave — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 03:28:31 +0000

I saw this on Aliexpress and ordered one (fingers crossed). It is advertised as a 7" HDMI monitor that has a peaking feature built in for focus. Will report when it arrives. It was shipped FedEx, how classy! They also have a higher resolution version in 7" and a 5" version with peaking. Comes with your choice of battery adapter.
http://www.aliexpress.com/product-gs/503331272-7-Protable-on-camera-field-Monitor-with-HDMI-for-DSLR-wholesalers.html

GF2 electronic viewfinder

atofio — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 06:04:15 +0000

Now that, with the ptool 364d, the GF2 has become the second hand to the GH2,here comes the need for a more stable handheld shooting.As it stands,you can't shoot stable(video) using the LCD monitor.Especially if there is sunshine you neither can frame your subject nor focus easily...

So any ideas would be welcome(EVF only,no tripods,monopods,rigs etc.,these are another topic).For example has anyone tried the (expensive) Lumix LVF-1?Is it worth the money?Or alternatevily if there is something like Zacuto's z-finder that can be attached on the back of the GF2.

Varavon Loupe Ex-Supporter

khoumphonh — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 21:00:00 +0000

I was wondering if anyone has yet to test this out?

I'm really curious about mounting this on a shoulder rig without an offset adapter for the shoulder mount and just the screen flipped out instead.

Choosing HD Monitor and Viewfinder

Alexauwa — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 15:32:08 +0000

Hi everyone,

I just got started on the GH2. Do you recommend a special rig system what allow to attach a HD monitor to? This there something similar to viewfinder systems?

Looking forward to your replies.

Best,
Aled

Has anybody used the Lilliput 665GL-70NP?

brandonmrsh — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:33:25 +0000

Was looking into buying a monitor, and came across the Lilliput 665GL-70np.

Looks like it would be a pretty great solution for us using Canon based cameras. Looks like it downrezes to 480p. Found this video which shows a pretty good example:

Anybody use it? Have any info? Looks pretty promising for only $200

New very affordable and feature packed Ikan VL5 monitor

danyyyel — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 18:28:05 +0000

Ikan is releasing the Ikan VL5 monitor. It seems to have a very complete feature set compared to the 5' Lilliput for example with peaking etc, for less than $ 300 at Bhphotovideo (I say bh because the list price is $ 349 on Ikan website). it seems only to lack 1.1 and false color.

Monitor with HDMI with good color

alcomposer — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 10:26:23 +0000

Anyone have any thoughts on using a HDMI external display for production workflow?
I'm thinking of this one- cheap and 1:1 pixel of 1920x1080. + LED: 24” 2ms Asus VS248H-DVI-HDMI

This is for the director basically - but has to be VERY portable.

Cheers in advance.
Alex

Broadcast Monitor for Color Correction vs Affordable Alternatives

qwerty123 — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:05:42 +0000

Here's a question that I think many in the video and indie-filmmaking community don't have a straightforward and analytical answer to....:

QUESTION===> If your video / film content is not aimed at TV distribution but only for the web and also film-festivals, how crucial is it to have a broadcast monitor for color correction? Are there good, affordable (less than $1,500 or abouts) alternatives to a professional broadcast monitor that give nearly as good results in color critical work? Is there a good source of info on this?

What about a monitor like this: http://www.necdisplay.com/p/desktop-monitors/pa271w-bk

(Although even that is a bit pricey...)

RC FLYING FPV Glasses Video Viewer instead of viewfinder ?

feha — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:59:55 +0000

Hi, i wonder if some one have tested using RC FLYING FPV Glasses Video Viewer, instead/for viewfinder ? Any experience ? I have this as an idea to use them as a monitor, but the problem will be getting a composite output from GH2 ... Any Full HD video glasses ?

Detailed look at the Zacuto EVF

EOSHD — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 11:42:49 +0000

In my opinion this is a must have accessory for DSLR shooting. The first accessory I have really got excited about for a while.

Here is the review...

http://www.eoshd.com/content/3500/zacuto-evf-flip-review

In summary:

Image quality – superb resolution, accurate colour and smooth tonal range
Helps manual focus even when used as a monitor, good as small portable field monitor as well as EVF
Comes with an articulated Giottos ball-joint, so for DSLRs without an articulated screen (like the 5DMkII and 7D) it’s a big step up
Clearly visible live-view in really strong sunlight when used as an EVF
Can be offset on a shoulder rig in front of your eye, improving the balance of your rig
Lovely big eyecup and comfortable to use

Also now thanks to Vitaliy we can use ExTele mode via HDMI and have full monitoring for the first time with c-mount lenses in 1:1 crop mode!

Official TVLogic monitors topic

Vitaliy_Kiselev — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 05:30:22 +0000

Most interesting for us are their VFM-056WP and VFM-056W models

gh2 evf diopter

marktottymy — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:55:36 +0000

I finally found a diopter that fits the GH2 EVF, it the Sony FDAECF30 Diopter +3 correction lens. I bought two from Walmart, removed one of them from it's housing, and glued it to the camera (bottom) side of the one still in it's housing, then stuck it right up against the GH2 evf lens, and secured it with a bit of tape around the edges. Now I can really do documentary style follow focusing with a wide lens ! If you have better eyes than me, you might just need one instead of two.

http://www.walmart.com/search/search-ng.do?ic=16_0&search_query=Sony+FDAECF30+DSLR+Eyepiece+%2b3.0&search_constraint=ref=&tab_value=Online&clicked_tab_value=Online

Trusmt View finder

adys — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 20:11:48 +0000

This view finder looks good for GH1/2

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280694374271#ht_613wt_1139

Anyone tired it?
I contact the seller and they don't know, they don't have GH2.

Thanks

LCD anti glare protection

DVANZ — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 16:43:16 +0000

Just to let you know the best place to get custom cut, quality films for lcd protection is www.photodon.com
http://www.photodon.com/c/Universal-Custom-Sizes.html
Its recommended to get 1/16th gap and one side for easy install and removal.
They do clear options as well as options for touchscreens.
Like XH that is 25% glare reduction and thin. Thicker is the XT which reduces 65% glare but softens the image somewhat and the XF options that is thicker again, 65% glare reduction and softens your image.

I find this is a better option visually that purspex on small screens. I just adds that layer of protection for that opps moment.
see this review.
http://www.gottabemobile.com/2008/06/04/screen-protector-shootout-photodon-anti-glare/

regards
Nigel Burton

TV Logic 5.6" LCD review and Lilluput comparison

DVANZ — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 15:46:00 +0000

Hello All,

Im going to review an monitor that I use on a regular basis. The TV Logic 5.6" VFM-056WP.

I use it myself and for a range of high end commercials and smaller productions as an oncamera monitor of choice. It has been used on Canon 5D, 7D, Red Epic, Arri Alexa and Sony F3 productions. Im only just getting my GH2 on monday and very excited to job your group of avid GH2 users.
Is the only monitor (except their new 7") that changes the hdmi signal from the 5D to a recordable 720P 60i. The issue, as im sure you are aware with the 5D and 60D is that while there is a 1080 60i image out the hdmi when live, this changes to 480i, when recording with a 1 second black burst. The tv logic scales the video and thus allows an external recorder, that can be used as a playback device onset, like the aja ki pro mini or the samurai, or sony ex30. Basically any video assist recorder. Yes there is teh 1 second burst but the constant 720 allows video recorders to function with in one format.

Anyway, regarding this as a dslr only monitor, it has a great resolution the same as the small hd dp6 but has the same 1280 x 800 pixel panel, but better color balance (tested by a few dops i work with) and as well it has focus peaking (best results around 80-85 level), false colour as well as a waveform. The waveform on the latest firmware, im told has now full screen features, as well as with my current firmware, small and medium size with solid or opaque options. There are hot keys as well and can also be used as an anamorphic squeeze box, but only to the monitor itself and not out. We have used this on the arri alexa with success. We ended up using qtake hd to squeeze the image out to the rest of the world.

Also I have this 5" LILLIPUT 569HO hdmi lcd that is on sale currently. Its quite a cool screen with hdmi in and hdmi out as well as composite in and out with bnc connectors. Its on sale at US$179 now. A bargain as i paid $219 from ebay a few months ago. I use this at times like a viewfinder or cheap hdmi monitor. Its only 800x480 but gives a great picture for the price. bargin here

and a review here

Both use sony L batteries.

regards

Nigel Burton

Sony CLM V-55 Monitor

marks — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:40:15 +0000

I recently bought one and thought I would share my experience with it.
Main purpose in buying was for my 2nd cam person. She had been having trouble focusing our FX1's and now with GH2's I was worried. I had looked at the offerings from Small HD and others but just couldn't get my head around the cost....especially since my primary goal was focus assist. When the Sony model came out I looked at it a while then finally decided to buy it. I got it from Amazon for $399....figuring I could return it if it was junk or keep it if it was nice. Turns out it was a little of both.
First thing to note is that it does not come with any means to power it. You're on your own. I went to Batteries Plus and bought a 3000 mAh battery and charger for about $50. I have run the monitor for as long as 4-5 hours and have not had it die. I haven't tested to see how long it will run.
It arrived the same day I had a dance recital so my first test was also a working test.
First thing I noticed as I was setting it up was the colors. They looked amazing on the monitor.....except for the reds. The stage curtains were that nice deep shade of red.....but on the monitor they were brown. No manner of adjustment could make them red. I spent an hour or more tinkering with it before giving up and adjusting it so all the colors but the reds looked good.
Peaking worked really well.....and there is also a pixel magnification function that zooms in on the picture to help with focus. I haven't really used that function as the peaking works very well.
The fold up lens hood is also nice. Works well in most outdoor situations....though if you get the sun to your back forget it. The screen is reflective so that is a small problem outdoors....but not a deal breaker.
After some reading on the internet concerning the reds, I decided to return it for a new one. The couple of reviews that were out seemed to not have a problem with the reds. One nice thing about the return was the price was now lower....$322.00!
The new one arrived and I had the opportunity to use it again at the same venue. The reds were MUCH better....though still slightly leaning towards brown. The consensus of those I have talked to seems to be that you can't expect perfection at that price.
All in all I am happy with it. My 2nd shooter doesn't have any problems with focus now, and that is the main reason I bought it. If you need critical color I don't think I would recommend it. If you need focus assist and just want to have something bigger to look at then it works.
Would I buy one again?? Matter of fact I did. I liked it so much I bought another for my cam.

Mark

Topic on Director's Viewfinders

qwerty123 — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 10:54:08 +0000

Director's Viewfinders can be very helpful on a shoot or preplanning to see what different focal lengths look like for a particular framing without having to actually change lenses (especially useful if you are shooting with primes). So, let's start a topic to discuss and recommend some!

SWIVI 5.6" Monitor - anyone seen this yet?

soundgh2 — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:58:59 +0000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=MqAjdmRtxpc#!

Looks kind of interesting?

Cheapest 7" monitor with HD-SDI input and output

Vitaliy_Kiselev — Sun, 08 May 2011 22:14:57 +0000

Looks like cheapest monitor with SDI input

Price : $500 (+shipping)
Resolution : 800 x 3 (RGB) x 480
Sunhood is included.
Main difference is HD/SDI input.
It also has HD/HDI output.
Batteries - mount for Sony batteries.

More info at : http://cgi.ebay.com/7-HD-SDI-LCD-Monitor-w-Sony-DV-Battery-Adapter-/380333423493?_trksid=p4340.m1374

SmallHD DP6 firmware 2.1 update problem

Greek_m43 — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 22:43:26 +0000

I'm having a problem updating my SmallHD DP6. I followed their directions, using a 4GB FAT32 flashdrive with just the .bin file on it. I get error message 'binary file detect fail'. when it comes on then it just turns on normally. Anyone else have this problem?

Sun hood for monitor, ideas?

fatpig — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 17:28:01 +0000

Hey guys, i was at a shoot some days ago where there was a tv logic portable monitor.
It had a sun hood, and i thought i could make one of my own, for the cheap 10" hdmi monitor recommended by vitaliy.

My Question is: Does anyone have an idea, which material best to make the sides of? The tv logic ones have something like nylon-wrapped cardboard/plastic on the sides and top. thanks :)

Any interest in bigger Ruige monitors?

Vitaliy_Kiselev — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 04:55:32 +0000

This guys have metal cases, etc.
And are far from cheap. OF course our price will be batter compared to usualy anyway :-)