Search the Community

Hi, I am new to the forum so I don't know if this is the right place to post, but here: I am trying to find an Ikegami HL-791 3-tube Plumbicon camera from the late 1980s. From what I can gather this camera was introduced in 1987, but didn't sell as well as the CCD models of the time like the HL-55. The reason I am looking for it is because like the HL-95/55, it can be docked to a Betacam SP recorder like the Sony BVV-5. I've tried a lot of places already like eBay, but I was only able to find listings from a seller who wants ridiculous prices ($3000 USD and above) or missing major parts. I have saved searches so I'll probably be first to know if a working HL-791 came up. Recently I was able to locate one from a gentleman on Reddit who gave me theirs for the price of shipping, but it was missing the power board and the viewfinder is missing even more parts. And nope, the viewfinder is special (VF15-19) and is not currently on eBay and you probably wouldn't find one without finding another camera body. It also uses a different connector than the viewfinders use on the HL-79E. So I'm trying to find anyone who may have one of these cameras in storage somewhere or who may know any individuals or production companies they used this camera back when it was new. I've tried contacting some prop houses, rental houses, and even Ikegami's USA sales department in NJ but no luck. I'm considering writing a professional letter to Ikegami's global headquarters in Japan with the help of a Japanese friend, and seeing what that can do. Any help would be appreciated. Even finding other models of Plumbicon tube based cameras, such as the HL-79, HL-83, HL-95, and Sony BVP-30 would also be appreciated. The main camera I would like to find is the HL-791, but if I can find other models and accessories I would be happy as well. Thanks!