what could this be?

Filip Plesha · February 3, 2005

Here is a strange camera I found on the net, it has a nice bellows hood, I didn't know motion picture cameras use those too

Here is the link:

image

The picture was taken and downrezzed from the site www.crewpix.com, it belongs to Geoff McLean.

(just to avoid anyone suing me :))

The simplicity of the design would suggest some kind of a mitchell camera, but

I've never seen that model. It could allso be a Photosonics.

And I can't figure out if it was used as a prop or the actual shooting.

Nathan Milford · February 3, 2005

It is a common Arri 16BL with a 1000' (or 1200' maybe) coaxial magazine.

David Mullen ASC · February 3, 2005

Looks like a prop, like someone grafted an early 35mm 1000' coaxial mag onto the Arri-16BL, but I suppose it could be an early Arri-35BL.

February 3, 2005

That's the X-4000, the very latest in video camera technology from Microsoft.

They've done such a good job of screwing up every thing they've ever touched they decided to get into the video camera business as well.

The X-4000 weighs only 147 lbs, the tape stock costs $1500.00 for a five minute tape, and it comes pre-loaded with Microsoft software. Doh!

Frank

Rik Andino · February 3, 2005

The X-4000! WOW where can I get one?

Can I shoot a $5000.00 no budget feature? :rolleyes:

After squinting for so long (the goddamn picture is so dark)

I conclude (what every-freaking-body else concluded)

It's an Arri 16BL with a 1200 mag

Funny thing is the 1200ft. mag weren't made for the 16BL

They were made for the Arri 16M

And although they fit the BL since both have the same mag drive

Folks are warned not to use the 1200ft. mags on the 16BL

Because it'll ruin the magazine drive gears...but it seems these folks didn't listen

B)

Nathan Milford · February 3, 2005

Negative. I've seen fully functional 1000' coaxial mags for the 16BL and M that resemble 35BL mags but actually have screw out doors like Mitchel Mags on either side.

I didn't know they would trash the 16BL though. The ones I've worked with must have been modified.

Rik Andino · February 4, 2005

I know dude

They're like a Mitchell type coaxial mag

(probably the predecessor of the 35BL mags)

They're 1200' not 1000' they only make 'em divisible by 400

They're for the 16M

But they do fit and work on the 16BL but they f**K up the drive gears

Something about the torque or some other technical variable

(At least that's what I've been told...never had the guts to try them

Actually never really use them seen them up on a shelf though)

They sell 'em at visual products for $600

http://www.visualproducts.com/storeProduct...&Cat2=38#bigPic

They did make a strange magazine for the 16BL

http://www.visualproducts.com/storeProduct...&Cat2=38#bigPic

Looks like a early model of the SR magazine...

PS Nathan I've been trying to contact you, seems you're awfully busy

I'll call you one of these see you around, take care

Rob Belics · February 4, 2005

The X-4000 weighs only 147 lbs, the tape stock costs $1500.00 for a five minute tape,

I don't believe that. Video tape is dead.

Annie Wengenroth · February 4, 2005

It's like a Frankencamera....

February 4, 2005

needs more cowbell

Nathan Milford · February 5, 2005

PS Nathan I've been trying to contact you, seems you're awfully busy
I'll call you one of these see you around, take care

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Yeah. We've had a feller in from Aaton in the shop for some training so I've been occupied with that and I've had a flurry of personal stuff to deal with. Give me a ring during business hours and I should be able to answer your questions.

- nathan