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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.
| 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) |
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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.
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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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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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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
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Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
Great product makes my job a lot easier to do.
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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!
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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*
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
It serves its purpose as it should. at a reasonable price
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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.
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