Bolex MC-17 Motor

[Benjamin Elliott]

Would the MC-17 motor be a good tool to help better sync audio in post? Or would a crystal sync motor be the only thing that could do it properly? I appreciate and thank you for your time!

[Simon Wyss]

The MC-17 is braked by the camera’s mechanical governor. If the camera is in good shape, you will be able to shoot at fairly constant speed and not far from the intended frame rate. I’d say a minute or two will be doable but for longer takes you need a crystal controlled motor. Image and sound can only be kept together by the crystal method or with a synchronous AC motor on mains. It all depends on the accuracy wished. With a constructive narration scheme the editor has possibilities for corrections. S/he can remove a frame length or add one (sound) here or there. With long uninterrupted image takes you need crystal. Excuse me for my filmic way of expression, my experience is limited to ?️.

[Benjamin Elliott]

Thank you very much for the informative reply! I now have a much better idea of the limitations when it comes to shooting with the motor and how I should approach each take. I will keep your advice in mind. Thank you again!