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Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System

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The Glidecam HD2000 is a lightweight, hand-held camcorder stabilizing system. This system is upgraded from the 2000 Pro and offers fine adjustments and an improved gimbal and balance system.

Camera stabilization systems like this one work to provide camera stability during movement for dynamic and subjective camera shots. It utilizes a balancing system that dampens the user's body movement, providing a smooth, floating moving image appearance usually achieved with more expensive equipment.

Upgrades from 2000 Pro
This system is upgraded in its gimbal movement and adjustment of convergence and camera balance.
No Tools
A no tool telescoping central post allows for precision balance and easy adjustment.
Construction Aluminum
Load Capacity 2-6 lbs (0.9-2.6kg)
Vest None
Arm None
Head Assembly/Top Stage Adjustable
X,Y Head Dimensions: 7.50 x 4.125 x 1.00"
Quick Release Yes
Dovetail Plate Base Platform 11.50 x 4.00"-15.00 x 4.00"
1/4-20 Camera Mounting
Gimbal Free Floating
Dynamic Spin Panning and Tilting
Post Telescoping
Central Support Post: 1.00" diameter
15-22" In Length
Monitor No
Battery No
Battery Mount No
Weight 2.54 lbs (1.1kg)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
GlidecamHD2000 Stabilizer System
 
4.4

(based on 154 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (76)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (64)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (10)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (2)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (2)

94%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Professional quality (121)
  • Improves performance (116)
  • Compact (74)
  • Easy to use (62)
  • Highly compatible (38)

Cons

  • Heavy (7)
  • Lacks functionality (6)
  • Limited compatibility (6)
  • Poor design (6)
  • Pricey / poor value (6)

Best Uses

  • Independent films (111)
  • Complex projects (80)
  • Home movies (55)
  • In the studio (54)
  • Weddings (8)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Business owner (66), Professional artist (57), Enthusiast (48), Film student (28), Travel (6)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (131)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Smoother footage. Strong arms required.

The Glidecam HD-2000 stabilizer is a great tool for videographers and video enthusiasts in general to have. If you like to shoot video while in motion (following someone, going around something/someone, ...Read complete review

The Glidecam HD-2000 stabilizer is a great tool for videographers and video enthusiasts in general to have. If you like to shoot video while in motion (following someone, going around something/someone, etc.), then this is the tool for you. The difference between a handheld walking shot and one with the Glidecam is night and day. It gives the shot a much more professional look, without the camera shake that often makes videos look more amateurish.

However, it's not that easy to get the Glidecam balanced properly. And I don't think this is a flaw in the product, it's just that the physics involved are tricky. For once, you have to make sure that when you balance it, the camera is setup EXACTLY the way it will be setup when you shoot (battery in, lens cap off, viewfinder set to the desired position, accessories, if any mounted, etc.). Otherwise, if you balance it and then use a heavier/lighter battery, or pull out the viewfinder, the rig will be off balance again. The key is to follow the instructions and take your time. And be ready to get your arms really tired from testing, adjusting, testing, adjusting until you get it right.

One gripe I have is the system to add weights to the base of the unit. I wish they'd come up with a different system to make is easier and quicker to switch weights. You have to remove 2 thumb nuts for each side (front and back) every time you want to add/remove plates, and the bolts that the weights slide into are very long (to accommodate for more plates). On top of that, you have to use both hands because the bolts will fall off if you have the unit standing with the camera on top while adjusting it, and if you don't hold the bolts, often they turn with the nuts, and you don't go anywhere. Another gripe: I wish the quick release plate would have an easier way to mount/unmount the camera to it. If you want to take the camera off, you have to remove the plate with the camera from the Glidecam and then remove the screw to "free" the camera. Something like the quick release mechanisms available in tripods would be extremely helpful for videographers on the go. Other than that, the unit is very well designed.

You will get tired using this unit. There's no way around it, unless you buy the very expensive vest or arm brace accessories available for it. It also takes a little getting used to it and a lot of practice to get those perfect shots we are all looking for. But once you get the hang of it, you will really enjoy its benefits. The construction quality is excellent and sturdy. The grip is comfortable and big enough for large hands.

Overall, this is a very useful tool to have and will make your videos look much better. There are lighter and cheaper units out there, but this one provides a lot of flexibility and a more robust design that accommodates for heavier equipment, etc. I recommend this unit.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

I am waiting for an improved version

The equipment gives me new experience. I love to use it anywhere I can bring. I think the glidecam maker should improve their product. The release plate system to attach to camera is uncomfortable...Read complete review

The equipment gives me new experience. I love to use it anywhere I can bring. I think the glidecam maker should improve their product. The release plate system to attach to camera is uncomfortable and dangerous to operate, especially when you are on field and don't have enough time to adapt new situations. I nearly droped my camera because of relying on the glidecam's plate. I recommend you guys, who want to use the glidecam HD2000 seriously, should buy a quick release adapter system.
To control and handle the direction of glidecam, you should cover around the Central Post by a nylon-conton band.
If you guys do business relying on it, you should practice a lot. And before you go to shoot, you have to prepare and calibrate it carefully. You will not have enough time to adjust its balance on field. When you shoot video at place that has windy conditions, your device may lose it balance, so an advice is you should put more weight on it.

Reviewed by 154 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-20

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4.0

Steadi shots!!! Yay!

By Jonathan, freelance DP

from Los angeles

About Me Business Owner, Professional Artist

Verified Buyer

Pros

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

Cons

  • Gets heavy on your arm

Best Uses

  • Complex Projects
  • Home Movies
  • Independent Films
  • In The Studio

Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

I just got the product a few weeks ago. It takes a little time to calibrate and adjust the device to suit the weight of your camera but afterwards it works great. I use a canon 7d on mine and what i have noticed about the pro model which is great is the many available adjustments to the plate at the too of the steadicam which really helps me set my stability. I do recommend u do some weight lifting before hand b/c it gets heavy to carry around. Its more for quick shots. However i am lookin and recommend u look as well into the vest or arm attachment to help support the weight for longer use. Besides that enjoy professional smooth shots with great versitility!

  • Was this a gift?:
  • No

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5.0

Practice, Practice, Practice

By Reyes G

from San Antonio, TX

About Me Business Owner

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Improves Performance

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Event videography

    Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

    use it with video camera, not a DSLR, it takes watching how to videos & baby step adjustments, once you balance, it's wonderful.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Share this review

     
    5.0

    Amazing purchase

    By JJ

    from Butler, PA

    About Me Semi-Pro

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Improves Performance
    • Professional Quality

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Complex Projects
      • Independent Films

      Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

      I've only played around with this since my shoot isn't planned for another couple of days, but it feels just like the steadicam I learned on in college.

      Once its balanced properly, your shots will be glass smooth and look amazing.

      The micro-adjustments on the sled are a life saver and make adjustments on the fly extremely easy.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      4.0

      great

      By jake

      from santa fe

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Compact Design
      • Improves Performance
      • Lightweight
      • Professional Quality

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Home Movies
        • Independent Films

        Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

        Works perfectly, especially when combined with post image stabilization. I do lots of outdoor shooting and this is the perfect tool to get smooth, interesting shots without a big set-up. I even took it to the great sand dunes and the gimbal held up perfectly despite getting super sandy!

        Breaks down very well to fit in a backpack, very lightweight.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

         
        4.0

        Good but steep learning curve

        By Roofy

        from Virginia

        About Me Business Owner, Professional Artist

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Improves Performance

        Cons

        • Pricey / Poor Value

        Best Uses

        • Home Movies
        • Independent Films
        • In The Studio

        Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

        Instructions while usable look dated and cover a variety of models. Surely the company could spend 2 days writing a manual for each model?

        Very tricky as a beginner to balance the camera and lens but finally got the hang of it....I think!

        Once balanced you will need to spend a considerable amount of time walking around with the Glidecam and camera to get used to the movement and motion and how your body is affecting the unit's direction.
        I'm still learning and it's a steep curve and frustrating experience. It's great when you finally understand how to manipulate but don't think you can pick this up as a newbie and GO!

        Looking forward to finally shooting some usable footage!

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

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        4.0

        worth the money

        By Scary Gary

        from St.Louis, MO

        About Me Hobbyist

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Improves Performance
        • Professional Quality

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Complex Projects
          • Independent Films

          Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

          It's a little tricky to balance at first and takes some time getting used to flying it..but once you get it you'll get outstanding video footage! great buy

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Share this review

           
          5.0

          Love

          By Avi30

          from wichita ks

          About Me Business Owner

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

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

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Complex Projects
            • Home Movies
            • Independent Films
            • In The Studio

            Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

            Great product makes my job a lot easier to do.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            Glidecam is Revolutionary!

            By GoProBros

            from Burlington, VT

            About Me Professional Artist

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Improves Performance
            • Lightweight
            • Professional Quality

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Complex Projects
              • Home Movies
              • In The Studio

              Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

              I love my Glidecam to death and I have only had it for 2 weeks! I must admit that initially I was pulling my hair out trying to get the thing to balance but I eventually got it. My fault was that I wasnt putting on enough weights, I have a Canon 60D with a Tokina 11-16mm so I ended up putting 5 plates on each side and now it works perfect! I am learning how to use it and am getting more and more confident. My biggest recommendation is just to add the weight. Its great too because your arm gets jacked!

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              amazing!

              By Film Student

              from Norcal

              About Me Film Student

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Highly Compatible
              • Lightweight
              • Professional Quality

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Complex Projects
                • Home Movies
                • Independent Films
                • In The Studio

                Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                takes a while to learn to use, but you can achieve beautiful shots after you do mess with it a lot

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                4.0

                Good product, not the best instructions

                By Joao

                from Ogden, UT

                About Me Business Owner, Professional Artist

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easy To Use
                • Improves Performance
                • Lightweight
                • Professional Quality

                Cons

                • Poor documentation

                Best Uses

                • Complex Projects
                • Independent Films
                • In The Studio

                Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                I have no complaints with the product. But the instructions weren't the best in helping me understand how to properly balance. I had to find videos to show me how.

                But the HD2000 works great. Once I figured out how to properly balance it, it's actually quite easy to do each time. I use it with a 7D and it works great.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                5.0

                Excellent product!!!

                By Kyle the student

                from Tracy, CA

                About Me Business Owner, Hobbyist

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

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

                Cons

                • Hard to set up

                Best Uses

                • Complex Projects
                • Independent Films
                • In The Studio

                Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                I've used this for about a week now, and it adds so much production value. It takes some getting used to, but just like anything practice makes perfect. I highly recommend this to any videographer who is looking to add some variety into their work. The only con is that balancing can be kind of a pain, but there are great resources on the internet that can help you with that.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

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                5.0

                Great product

                By Wild Bill

                from Tulsa OK

                About Me Business Owner, Professional Artist

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Compact Design
                • Highly Compatible
                • Improves Performance
                • Lightweight
                • Professional Quality

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Complex Projects
                  • Independent Films
                  • In The Studio

                  Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                  I am a video producer doing mostly corporate and wedding videos. I got the GlideCam HD-2000 to bring in some more flair that you just can't get on sticks.
                  So far I am loving it. It has a profesional look, a great feel, and results in beautiful clean, smooth footage. There is definatley a learning curve to the GlideCam, but if you are willing to take the time there are a ton of resources to help get you going. I am using it with a Canon T2i. Striped down it is actually a bit light for this rig, but with the battery grip loaded with 2 bateries, it works great, and gives me room to add in my zoom or on camera lighting without maxing the rig. I think the only downside is the learning curve. Don't buy this if you want something ready to use on set out of the box, but that said, don't buy any stabilizer if that's what you expect. This is the rig to buy for sure.
                  I would recomend a Quick Release Plate so you can jump from your sticks to the GlideCam quickly.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

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                  3.0

                  complicated

                  By JAY

                  from Queens

                  About Me Professional Videographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Complicated
                  • Needs more RD

                  Cons

                  • Lacks Functionality

                  Best Uses

                    Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                    More R&d require for this gadget.Once you set the balance ready to go after long and comebersome adjustment and insert a CF card in your camera,balance goes off means you insert card before you start balancing from first step again a simple flaw any one can make. You change lens in mid shooting you need to balance again which again is boring, time taking process.JK*

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Small but powerful

                    By Bjerke Visuals

                    from Oslo, Norway

                    About Me Film Student

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

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

                    Cons

                    • Limited Compatibility

                    Best Uses

                    • Complex Projects
                    • Home Movies
                    • Independent Films
                    • In The Studio

                    Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                    The glidecam hd 2000 works perfectly for big moving shots where you are running around, as well as subtle shots. It is very easy to balance and learn how to use. You will be ready to shoot in no time.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Awesome System

                    By KAJ

                    from Asheboro, NC

                    About Me Business Owner, Hobbyist

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Easy To Use
                    • Improves Performance
                    • Professional Quality

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Complex Projects
                      • Independent Films

                      Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                      I use this with a Canon 7d for video. The setup was straight-forward and easy to understand (though I did track down some instructional videos on Vimeo). Fine tuning takes some time, but once it is dialed in, it is so smooth. I'm still practicing with using it (and building up more forearm strength in the process), but look forward to get it in on some projects soon.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                       
                      5.0

                      This is what I'm talking ABOUT!

                      By Kgraff

                      from St Simons Island, GA

                      About Me Business Owner

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Compact Design
                      • Improves Performance
                      • Professional Quality

                      Cons

                      • Dvd video be real good
                      • Kinda Pricey

                      Best Uses

                      • Complex Projects
                      • Shots

                      Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                      I Shoot Creatively,Get the best bang for a SHOT,,This helps out Tremendously!,,Should come with A Brace though,,But forearms getting there

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      5.0

                      Great unit

                      By LZ

                      from Grand Rapids, MI

                      About Me Film maker

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • A great skill to know
                      • Amazing design
                      • Great value

                      Cons

                      • Screw issue

                      Best Uses

                      • Goodfellas
                      • Great DoF shots
                      • Music videos
                      • Rocky
                      • Wide angle movement

                      Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                      The HD2000 Stabilizer System is an amazing unit. I've used both Steadicam and Glidecam units before, both with the full vest and arm rig. I am amazed how staedy the shots can still be without all of that mess. It's definitely something that takes time to get good at, but being good with one means your getting shots a lot of filmmakers can't, and it's a great skill to have on a resume. It's not that hard to balance but takes a little practice. I don't use the stand and have no problems. I bought the 2000 and use it with my DSLR. I probably could have gone with the 1000 as I am only using one set of weights and have almost no extension. But, I will eventually be going with a full frame camera and using cinema lenses. If you plan on using only DSLR, go with the 1000, otherwise you are going to have a stack of unused weights. Considering the price of shoulder mounts and dolly rigs, which are absurdly high and can be well made for less than $100, this unit is a great value. What you can get with this is much more fluid and interesting and you can't DIY a good Glidecam. My only issue with the unit is that one of the screws that holds the weights is stripped at the bottom so when I have only one weight on it, I can't tighten it down all the way. Not a huge deal, will just get a new screw from the hardward store. It would also be nice to have a quick release plate, but this is difficult because you need that versitility with different holes.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

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                      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      5.0

                      Great for DSLR

                      By JD

                      from Washington, DC

                      About Me Professional Artist

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

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

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Independent Films

                        Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                        I was looking for a stabilization system for a Canon 5D DSLR with a zoom lens and a microphone. I started with a Steadicam Merlin, but that option failed miserably. The Merlin is beautiful, light and well designed... but almost impossible to get adjusted. The manual says it will take 8 hours to set up! Then, say with a zoom lens, you change your focal length and you need to readjust. It's just way too finicky for a DSLR so I ordered the Glidecam HD2000 after seeing how it was used on the documentary To He!! and Back Again. So far I love it. It's bigger than the Merlin, but so much easier to set up. I was flying shots within about a half hour. It's rugged, well designed and gets the job done. Do yourself a favor and buy a quick release plate. Then you're be swapping between the Glidecam HD2000 and a tripod in seconds. Although, I do wish Glidecam offered a fitted case. The weight is another issue. I'll need to work out a bit before I can operate this with only my arm. I already have the vest in my wish list which will make this a fantastic stabilizing system I can use all day.

                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Share this review

                         
                        5.0

                        Just what I expected

                        By GeoMed

                        from new york , NY

                        About Me Business Owner, Film Student

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Compact Design
                        • Easy To Use
                        • Professional Quality

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Home Movies

                          Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                          It serves its purpose as it should. at a reasonable price

                          Share this review

                           
                          4.0

                          Nice compliment to Merlin

                          By BryanP

                          from Barrington, NH

                          About Me Business Owner

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Easy To Use
                          • Professional Quality

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                              Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:

                              I film weddings and have used the Merlin for many years. I love it but I've been wanting to try the Glidecam. I like the versatily of being able to get moving tilt shots and using it as a temporary tripod to get low angle shots while I man another camera.

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

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                              System Extensions

                              Glidecam -  Smooth Shooter Support System
                              • Price: $1,389.99
                               

                              Stands & Mounts

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                                • Original: $98.95
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                              Batteries & Power Adapters

                              Marshall Electronics -  VBP-12LCD Battery with Charger
                                • Original: $56.35
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                              • Price: $53.53
                               

                              On-Location Tools

                              Leatherman -  Wave Tool with Leather Case - Stainless Finish
                               

                              Bags & Cases

                              Porta Brace -  Carrying Case for Camera and Glidecam HD2000/HD4000
                              • Price: $169.95
                               

                              What's in the Box

                              Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System
                              • Camera Mounting Plate
                              • Mid Plate
                              • Bottom Plate
                              • Central Post
                              • Three Axis Gimbal with Yoke And Offset Handle
                              • Telescoping Post
                              • Base Platform
                              • 12 Steel Counter Balance Weight Disks
                              • 90 Day Warranty
                               
                               
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