NPR or CP16R?

Chris Keth · June 30, 2006

I have an opportunity to buy an NPR package or a CP16R package. Both are in good shape and are priced well. They're being sold by my boss, who I know very well and who maintains his gear very well. I'm just fishing for experience with either or both cameras. I have used a CP16R but only relatively briefly. I have never used an NPR in a shooting situation, but I know how to load, operate, et cetera. I have already half made up my mind, I'm just looking for any and all feedback before I decide. So which would you guys prefer?

Edit: I forgot one important thing. I would like to know of the feasibility of converting each camera to Super 16. I know NPRs can be converted, as they were I believe the first camera to have that operation done. I've never heard, on the other hand, of a super 16 CP16R. Also, does anyone know of a supplier of lens mount adapters that would get me from the NPR's mounts and from the CP mount to a PL or Arri bayonet mount?

Edited June 30, 2006 by Christopher D. Keth

Michael Nash · June 30, 2006

I know the CP vs. Eclair thing has been discussed ad nauseam here in the past, but you may have to go back several years in the archives. Try the CML archives also.

I've used both and preferred the NPR as sort of a "poor man's SRII," but I don't recall the answers to your question about conversion, etc. Each camera has its quirks and you need to choose which one suits you and your intentions for it.

These guys are your resource for all things Eclair:

http://www.opticalelectrohouse.com/

They may be able to answer some of your CP questions as well.

Hunter Sandison · June 30, 2006

Visual Products offers a s16 and PL mount conversion for the CP-16. According to their website they're the only company that offers this service.

http://www.visualproducts.com/servicesProd...=92&Cat2=93

June 30, 2006

Both cameras can be converted to Super 16 and both can be converted to a PL mount.

I have a CP16R and an ACL but all of my needs would have been met by an NPR (although I don't think it's so great ergonomically).

If price is not an issue, go with the NPR. It is the only 16mm camera on the planet with this combination of features:

- pin registration (no pin on the CP)

- user-adjustable shutter angle (not on the CP or most other 16mm cameras either)

- instant-change magazines (the CP has to be threaded up)

- user-interchangeable motor

- 2-lens turret with the ability to take lenses in just about any mount (Arri, PL, CA-1, Nikon, C-mount, etc.)

It is, I think, just about the most flexible 16mm you can buy... and this from someone who actually likes the CP.

Matt Pacini · June 30, 2006

I've heard that it wasn't as quiet as a CP16R. Is that true?

My CP is absolutely dead quiet, but it was a bit noisy before I got it serviced by Paul Hillman at Visual Products.

MP

June 30, 2006

I've heard that it wasn't as quiet as a CP16R. Is that true?
My CP is absolutely dead quiet, but it was a bit noisy before I got it serviced by Paul Hillman at Visual Products.

I've never heard a side-by-side comparison of the CP and the NPR, but my CP is quieter than my ACL. However, my ACL has a noisy, non-standard motor. I'm hoping to have my CP "Hillmanized" some day for even quieter running.

Chris Keth · July 1, 2006

I've heard that it wasn't as quiet as a CP16R. Is that true?
My CP is absolutely dead quiet, but it was a bit noisy before I got it serviced by Paul Hillman at Visual Products.

MP

How much did that run you, Matt? I want to make sure to think of a good serviceing as part of the purchase price so I'm sure to get it done promptly.