Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System

  • Price: $3,795.00
  • B&H # STPAA
  • Mfr# PILOT-AA

Product Highlights

  • For Lightweight Cameras
  • Includes Sled, Vest & Iso-Elastic Arm
  • Expandable Carbon Fiber Post
  • 5.8" LCD Monitor
  • Low Mass Gimbal
  • AA Battery Mount
  • Back Pack Transport
  • 2-10 lbs Capacity

What item is right for you?

Ask our Experts!

800.606.6969
Live Chat
Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System
Items not shown to scale

The Steadicam Pilot-AA is a state of the art, lightweight stabilizer system designed especially for the modern breed of lightweight cameras from 2 to 10 pounds. It features a 5.8" NTSC/PAL LCD monitor, Iso-elastic Arm and ultra low profile vest, lightweight sled with CarbonLite expandable post.

AA Option
The AA option allows the monitor to be powered by AA batteries by including an AA battery mount.
Iso-Elastic Arm
The Iso-Elastic arm is a two-section, articulated, design that can be adjusted while supporting the camera. With this patented, unique design, the Steadicam operator can smoothly and effortlessly raise or lower the arm throughout its 28 inch boom range.
Vest
A low profile vest allows the Iso-Elastic Arm to work in a very smooth fashion.
Low Mass Gimbal
Utilizing a proven Low Mass Gimbal the operator has the ability to capture the fluid movement that only Steadicam can provide.
LCD Monitor
A 5.8" 16:9 LCD monitor is offered for great images and an upgrade to a modern aspect ratio.
Construction Carbon Fiber and Aluminum
Load Capacity 2 to 10 lbs
Vest Low Profile Vest
Arm Iso-Elastic Arm
Head Assembly/Top Stage Flat Base
Quick Release No
Docking Bracket Yes
Dovetail Plate No
Gimbal Low Mass Gimbal
Dynamic Spin Not Specified by Manufacturer
Post Carbon Fiber
Monitor 5.8" LCD (NTSC/PAL Compatible)
Battery AA Batteries
Battery Mount AA Battery Mount
Optional Accessories Not Specified by Manufacturer
Weight Not Specified by Manufacturer

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System
 
4.7

(based on 25 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (17)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (8)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Professional quality (16)
  • Improves performance (14)
  • Compact (11)
  • Easy to use (11)
  • Stable (6)

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Independent films (15)
    • Complex projects (10)
    • Stabilization (7)
    • In the studio (6)
    • Movies (6)
      • How long have you owned it:
      • A month or less

         

        75% 

        (3 reviews)

        One-to-three months

         

        Three-to-six months

         

        More than six months

         
      • Reviewer Profile:
      • Business owner (12), Professional artist (7), Tech savvy (4), Film professional (3)
      • Was this a gift?:
      • No (7)

    REVIEWS

    Reviewed by 25 customers

    Sort by

    Displaying reviews 1-20

    Back to top

    Previous | Next »

     
    5.0

    Great!

    By Richard Steffens

    from Carthage, TN

    About Me Film Professional, Tech Savvy

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Durable
    • Produces High Quality Film

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Cinema
      • Documentaries
      • HD Shooting
      • Pro Productions
      • Shooting Indoors
      • Shooting Outdoors
      • Travel

      Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

      Love it! Amazing!

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Comment on this review

      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

       
      5.0

      Thanks to All For Your Reviews!

      By Modern Bounty Hunter

      from Tracy, California

      About Me Bounty Hunter, Business Owner, SEO Consultant

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Compact Design
      • Easy To Use
      • Improves Performance
      • Lightweight
      • Professional Quality
      • Quick Setup

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Independent Films
        • Internet Marketing
        • Run-n-Gun Bounty Hunting

        Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

        [...].I had prior and extensive experience balancing the Glidecam 2000, which I purchased from B&H; accordingly, "dynamic" balancing of the Steadicam Pilot Sled took about 10 minutes. Setting the arm(s) took another 10 minutes, and the vest turned out to be the most challenging—taking about 20 minutes.Thankfully, the Steadicam Pilot came with the docking bracket that plopped right onto one of my existing C Stands, and I strongly suggest that one either have a C Stand or purchase one in order to have a painless experience balancing the sled.While I am still practicing with the rig, I began to record exceptional video clips (using Panasonic HMC150) within 10 minutes!The monitor on the sled is great indoors, though it is a bit difficult to see outdoors around Noon.I will be using the Steadicam Pilot to document bounty hunting, live seminars and online education classes.Overall, I am ecstatic to put the Steadicam Pilot into action, and I would like to extend my appreciation to all those who participated in the reviews. You all helped me make a great purchase!!!

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

         
        5.0

        Best product for videographers

        By Alasker

        from Kfar Kama, Israel

        About Me Business Owner

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Compact Design
        • Easy To Use
        • Improves Performance
        • Professional Quality

        Cons

        • First adjustment

        Best Uses

        • Complex Projects
        • Independent Films

        Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

        It esay to use after the first adjustment
        in the first adjustment the opertor's handbook so useful to understand the balances (static and dymanic forces) of the prodect.
        It get's prfect resalts after useing in camera moving shots.

        It's very useful prodect for small Business

        Thank's
        Alasker

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

         
        4.0

        works great

        By Film Prof

        from New Orleans

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Compact Design
        • Improves Performance
        • Professional Quality

        Cons

        • Lacks Functionality

        Best Uses

          Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

          We used it with my students and it was a great tool. The major problem is that the monitor is basically unusable in sunny conditions outdoors.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Comment on this review

           
          5.0

          Absolutely stunning

          By Etnobotanic Media

          from Cluj, Romania

          About Me Business Owner, Professional Artist

          Verified Reviewer

          Pros

          • Compact Design
          • Easy To Use
          • Highly Compatible
          • Improves Performance
          • Professional Quality

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Complex Projects
            • Independent Films

            Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

            I've had this for 2 days now and I'm still trying to figure out how to stabilize it but I've already shot some test footage and even with bad stabilization the results look amazing. Other than the frustrating struggle to get it stabilized I have no other complain.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Comment on this review

             
            4.0

            Amazing product

            By Kay Fabian

            from Washington, DC

            About Me Filmmaker, Professional Artist

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easy To Use
            • Improves Performance
            • Professional Quality

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Independent Films
              • In The Studio

              Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

              This does exactly what you need it to. It takes a little while to learn how to balance it, but once you get it, it's not that difficult. My only complaint is that if you don't own a C stand, you will need to purchase one. Otherwise, balancing will be near impossible.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Comment on this review

              (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

               
              4.0

              Steadicam Pilot This

              By Supaxiro

              from Los Angeles

              About Me Business Owner, Film maker, Hobbyist, Professional Artist

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Compact Design
              • Easy To Use
              • Highly Compatible
              • Improves Performance
              • Professional Quality
              • Smooth movement

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Home Movies
                • Independent Films

                Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                Use Steadicam Pilot for Independent film shoots. Shots look great and the whole set up is not too hard on the body after a few hours. Stabilizing arm is a good concept. Initial balancing is quite irritating but once you get the hang of it one can become more tolerant. The velcro vest design could be improved to use adjustable buckle clips instead. The gimbal tool seems a little flimsy and bends while you try o turn the screw on the gimbal.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                 
                4.0

                Great once you figure it out!

                By Leianna

                from NJ

                About Me Film Student, Hobbyist

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Compact Design
                • Improves Performance
                • Professional Quality

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Complex Projects
                  • Independent Films

                  Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                  [...] when I opened the box I was surprised to see that the steadicam came in a bag since it wasn't listed under "what's in the box."The steadicam doesn't come with directions on how to put it together, just a packet that tells you all the pieces you should have. It also doesn't come with any video or directions on how to help you balance the device. However, once you figure all of this out (and you will, it's not hard just frusterating) you will find that the steadicam is a great tool to add to your toolbox of video equiptment. I like he AA battery option the best because it tends to be lighter and for the most part, cheaper.

                  Comment on this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Great Product

                  By Robert

                  from California

                  About Me Local Acsess

                  Pros

                  • Compact Design
                  • Professional Quality

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Events
                    • Everyday
                    • Feature shows
                    • Independent Films
                    • In The Studio
                    • Sports

                    Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                    The pilot is perfect we got the pilot for local access we were doing more and more things that could use the interesting smooth and cool shots that the pilot can provide us. Also the pilot is a better product than the glide cam. It was cost effective for us.

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    I recommend this product

                    By Val

                    from Timisoara, Romania

                    About Me Business Owner

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Compact Design
                    • Easy To Use
                    • Improves Performance
                    • Professional Quality

                    Cons

                    • Learning curve

                    Best Uses

                    • Complex Projects
                    • Home Movies
                    • Independent Films

                    Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                    This by far the most professional stabilization system I ever used.
                    I could not find any negative aspects yet

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Great Buy

                    By Hassan and Sabrina at Hash Studios

                    from Lahore, Pakistan

                    About Me Business Owner

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Easy To Use
                    • Improves Performance
                    • Professional Quality

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Complex Projects
                      • Independent Films

                      Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                      We are using the pilot with our sony ex3 and the results are great. It is a bit hard to use at first but once you get the hang of it, you will thoroughly enjoy your film making.

                      The gimbal is very easy to handle after the first few uses. One suggestion though, we didn't buy the steadistand and if you are going to buy this kit dont forget to add it to your cart as the whole process of balancing the camera is pretty much linked to it. We are currently using a light stand and the docking bracket(included with kit) to balance our rig.

                      Comment on this review

                      (3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      4.0

                      First Impressions of the Steadicam Pilot

                      By Forever On Film

                      from Auckland, New Zealand

                      About Me Business Owner, Pro Wedding Videographer

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Easy To Use
                      • Professional Quality

                      Cons

                      • Very Lightweight

                      Best Uses

                      • Home Movies
                      • Independent Films
                      • Weddings

                      Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                      I have had the Steadicam for a couple of weeks now and am just about to use it for its first job.As other reviewers have said it is very well built, the cables connecting the LCD screen do seem a bit exposed and the 'backpack' is bigger than a suitcase but excellent at keeping the steadicam safe all the way to New Zealand even!The unit is well built, easy to understand, and the instructions are excellent. I also bought the Steadicam Operators Manual book by James Holway from BH because I need to use this unit professionally and long term so want to maximise my chances of doing well. I recommend this book - it's excellent.There is a learning curve to balancing the Pilot properly - but you can get it going well (though not perfectly) quite quickly. I consider myself quite hamfisted and yet was able to get my camera balanced by following the video and directions that come with the unit.My only concern to date is that I use Panasonic DVX102Bs and they are very light, as is the steadicam pilot and that means it's hard to eliminate ALL extraneous movement. I am still working through balancing and currently have all the supplied weights added to the steadicam which is giving me the best result so far but it is not quite as smooth as I had hoped.I think lightness will always be a bit of an issue with the Pilot - it's just physics - bigger, heavier things have more inertia - light cameras on Steadicam Pilots have less. It is obvious technique will be important and will take time to learn.That said - I have no regrets. It is everything you'd expect from Steadicam. Quality construction and an absolutely excellent stabiliser solution.FYI: The LCD screen works both NTSC and PAL! [...]

                      Comment on this review

                      (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      5.0

                      Awesome piece of kit

                      By [*]

                      from Australia

                      About Me Business Owner, Professional Artist

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Improves Performance
                      • Professional Quality

                      Cons

                      • Limited Compatibility

                      Best Uses

                      • Complex Projects
                      • Independent Films
                      • In The Studio

                      Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                      I use the Pilot with a 5D Mark II and a Sony EX-1. Completely different weighting setups required for the two cameras, so it takes time to change from one to another.

                      Takes a couple of days of mucking around to get familiar with correct weighting etc... if you haven't setup a steadicam before. (Easiest with the optional stand for getting the weights right.)

                      Now that it is balanced, I a few days into using it, about an hour a day and I'm getting better. I would expect to be producing reasonable results within 10 hours of use.

                      The product pretty much works as advertised, however it is the sort of tool that requires regular use to stay proficient at.

                      Compared to hand held options, there is no other way to be on the move and capture steady shots.

                      24mm lens seems to be about the best combination.

                      Comment on this review

                       
                      5.0

                      This Pilot is very well-trained

                      By Steadicam Sid

                      from Boston, MA

                      About Me Business Owner, Professional Artist

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Compact Design
                      • Easy To Use
                      • Improves Performance
                      • Professional Quality

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Complex Projects
                        • Independent Films
                        • In The Studio

                        Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                        You'll never accept shakey cam again. Easy to use but not to master, that will take time and patience.
                        Static balance, easy - dynamic balance, not so. Light enough to carry around all day without aspirins. You will raise the bar on the production value of your projects over your competition with a minimal investment of money and time. Build quality is excellent.

                        Comment on this review

                        (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

                         
                        4.0

                        Beautiful results

                        By Exile Video

                        from Frederick, MD

                        About Me Business Owner

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Compact Design
                        • Improves Performance
                        • Professional Quality

                        Cons

                        • Vest is difficult

                        Best Uses

                        • Complex Projects
                        • Independent Films
                        • Weddings

                        Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                        We produce all types of video productions and were looking for a reasonable cost for some nice smooth shots. The pilot really fits the bill. I thought it would difficult balancing but as it turns out it is really very easy. The only drawback is the vest. Too many velcro straps to figure out. They really need to fix this.

                        Comment on this review

                        (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                         
                        5.0

                        I really like it

                        By Mindy

                        from DC

                        About Me Business Owner, Professional Artist

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Compact Design
                        • Easy To Use
                        • Highly Compatible
                        • Improves Performance
                        • Professional Quality

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Complex Projects
                          • Independent Films
                          • In The Studio

                          Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                          We use the steadicam for weddings. It's really a great way to produce professional Video. Highly recommend

                          Comment on this review

                          (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                           
                          5.0

                          Nice gadget to add to the arsenal!

                          By Bucsfan5691

                          from Orlando, Fl

                          About Me Business Owner, Film Student, Professional Artist

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Easy To Use
                          • Highly Compatible
                          • Improves Performance
                          • Professional Quality

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                            • Complex Projects
                            • Independent Films
                            • In The Studio

                            Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                            I am using the steadicam to make an Independent Film this year. I have several other things I use such as the manfrotto fig rig (fully loaded), small dollies and tripods. I really like the steadicam and it can be used to film anything. The footage came out very steady and fluid. I have studied the concepts of stabilizers long before I purchased this, so I would say it took me about 2-3 days to get a good grasp on how to use this. Others will say that classes are definitely needed, but I would disagree. Practice, practice, practice and you'll be able to use the product very well. I taught my bro how to use this and the camcorder in 4 hours and he filmed a 20 minute scene very well. The biggest problem in setting this up, is balancing. It took me much more time to learn how to balance properly, than using the item itself. This does not come with the steadistand (it is not needed) and I was worried but I figured out how to balance with the rig on. It only takes a few minutes now. One thing to consider, if you aren't planning on using the steadicam throughout most of the shooting, I would save the money and use it on other budgets. Don't get me wrong, the Steadicam works very well, the gimble and the rest of the design are top notch. I would just consider using the fig rig if you aren't going to film long uncut shots. The Fig Rig (even though it gets heavy) will work for any of the smaller shots. Even though I have mentioned the Fig Rig, the Steadicam Pilot is the best out there if that is what you are looking for. The LCD is very clear (MY LCD seems to turn off due to a loose connection) and the components are very well built. The BACKPACK that comes with the product is big (still lightweight) but awesome! Lots of space for everything! If you are looking for a stabilizer I would consider this over the glidecam. The price tag of the steadicam includes the BAG(the bag isn't listed on included items) and an LCD. If you take the cost of those away, pound for pound, this product is easily better than the rest! If you want and have the money, GET THIS NOW!

                            Comment on this review

                             
                            5.0

                            Amazing!!!

                            By RHM Photo

                            from Cape May,NJ

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Durable
                            • High Quality

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                              • Commercial work
                              • Event Photography
                              • Short films

                              Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                              I received the steadicam pilot a few weeks back and have been nothing short of thrilled with it! It's very stable,silky smooth,extremely adjustable,built like a stabilizer should be built and handles just like one of the big boys.I'd recommend this to anyone flying smaller cams!You can wear this thing all day!

                              Comment on this review

                              (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                               
                              5.0

                              Simply amazing

                              By So Cal Vid Boy

                              from Ladera Ranch, Calif

                              About Me Technically Challenged

                              Verified Reviewer

                              Pros

                              • Folds Small
                              • Good Stability

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                • Movies
                                • Stabilization

                                Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                                Ok...I'm a total novice...been filming for MAYBE 5 years using handheld stuff. Took the leap after experimenting with a Merlin.

                                Since I shoot with a Canon XHA1 loaded up with shotgun mic and wireless lav receiver, I need the extra weight capacity.

                                I opted for the AA battery setup because I wasn't going to drop another $1300 for pro style batteries and charger.

                                Batteries last about 4 hours using the LCD.

                                LCD is good, but suffers in sunlight.

                                The Steadicam itself is fantastic and despite being intimidating, I got it balanced in about 45 minutes to where I could use it.

                                I know I have a lot to learn yet...but for now, my shots are much improved.

                                Wore the thing for 4 hours a day for about 4 days straight with minimal fatigue.

                                The unit it top quality and the DVD they provide shows the VERY basics...I went online to learn more but as I said, I have much to learn.

                                Turns out they have training classes....for $3000! That part is weak.

                                In short, don't be intimidated. These units are superb quality, and if I can get it up and running in less than an hour, any knucklehead can.

                                Comment on this review

                                 
                                4.0

                                Great tool but needs a couple tweaks...

                                By serenaray

                                from Toronto, Canada

                                About Me Aspiring Film Maker, Event Videographer, Tech Savvy

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • Good Stability
                                • Great Value
                                • Professional Results

                                Cons

                                • Cumbersome
                                • Dim LCD
                                • Low Quality Cables

                                Best Uses

                                • Movies
                                • Stabilization

                                Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

                                This is my first venture into the world of Steadicam and without a doubt, it is the best tool to start off with. I considered settling for the less expensive Merlin but opted for this model because of the attached LCD and flexibility for future camcorders.

                                Up front, most of the construction is top notch. My only beef so far is the very thin connectors for the LCD and where the cables are located. I think they are prone to snagging while in use or when being stored. A way to fix that is some tape but makes it more difficult if re-balancing.

                                Secondly, you have to use NiMH batteries -- and 10 of them! One charge of 2500mah batteries lasted about 4hrs of continuous use. I'd recommend bundling a high performance set of batteries with a charging system. I guess I could've just opted for a different battery pack...

                                The LCD isn't all that great outdoors so consider purchasing a solution that'll create shade on the screen... I have yet to do that. Remember that any weight you add to the rig will require re-balancing... and I've been going at it for a few weeks now - it's not easy.

                                Otherwise, this product is fantastic. Setting up takes a bit of time but with any gear, practice, practice, practice. The smooth flying this rig provides is outstanding. It is a worthwhile investment - and don't forget the protection plan. Like I said, there are a few things that are easy to damage from regular use... the plan will cover this!

                                Comment on this review

                                Displaying reviews 1-20

                                Back to top

                                Previous | Next »

                                System Extensions

                                Steadicam -  MERLIN-ARMVESTPK Upgrade Kit for Merlin
                                • Price: $1,495.00
                                 

                                Stands & Mounts

                                Impact -  Turtle Base Master Century C Stand - 10.75'
                                • Price: $98.95
                                 

                                Batteries & Power Adapters

                                Energizer -  Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries (4-Pack)
                                • Price: $7.49
                                 

                                On-Location Tools

                                Award Winning Workshops -  VT5 Advanced Steadicam Techniques (Volume # 5)
                                • Price: $79.95
                                 

                                This is a special order item and is non-cancelable and non-returnable. Est. arrival at B&H is 7-14 days (subject to availability). Your order will be charged at time of shipment.

                                "I strongly recommend this workshop series for people at all levels of experience to gain a real working knowledge of the art of creative imaging" - Bob Hagerty, Camera Operator (The Cosby Show, Inside the NFL...)

                                Underwater & Night Vision

                                Steadicam -  078-5238-01 Backpack for Steadicam Merlin/Pilot
                                • Price: $329.95
                                 

                                What's in the Box

                                Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System
                                • Vest
                                • Arm
                                • Center Post
                                • Sled
                                • Stage Plate
                                • 5.8" LCD Monitor
                                • Battery Mount
                                • Counter Weights
                                • Manual
                                • Back Pack Transport
                                • 1 Year Parts, 6 Months Labor Warranty
                                 
                                 
                                See any errors on this page? Let us know.

                                Close

                                Close