Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System
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(based on 121 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
94%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Professional quality (95)
- Improves performance (91)
- Compact (59)
- Easy to use (48)
- Highly compatible (29)
Cons
- Heavy (7)
- Lacks functionality (5)
- Poor design (5)
- Limited compatibility (4)
- Poor performance (4)
Best Uses
- Independent films (87)
- Complex projects (62)
- In the studio (41)
- Home movies (39)
- Weddings (8)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Business owner (51), Professional artist (46), Enthusiast (40), Film student (21), Travel (6)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (99)
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
It's got some potential.
This stabilizer has some great potentials and also some limitations as well. It also does require alot of set up to get it work right.
A newbie to a stabilizer should not...Read complete review
This stabilizer has some great potentials and also some limitations as well. It also does require alot of set up to get it work right.
A newbie to a stabilizer should not expect to be running right out of the box with it. The whole key to this system is the getting the weights and balancing just right. This requires alot of tweeking to get it just so.
I'm starting out small. I'm using just my Canon T3i with an 55-250 lens with the lcd flipped out(and since this is still a light camera I'm using one weight per side and it is tricky get this to not bopple and roll. Though I'm noticing I'm getting closer to that sweet spot. If I ever upgrade to a matte box, mikes, batteries, lights or prime lenses this will require some more tweeking with the balancing act.
The instruction manuals are straight forward and easy to follow. There are some even better videos on the web showing proper setup and configuration. You really need to find a quick release mount to the top of this device as well. The Glidecam quick release is laughable... more like slow release mount.
Expect to spend a good day to get this close to where it needs to be. I can see how this requires lots of practice in shooting and manipulating this mount. I think a new person to this probably would benefit from signing up for a class on how to use this or finding a meet-up group or face-to-face on hand users group. It would be awesome to learn from real pros who have first hand experience in getting this just right!
I can see how it would take alot to get that lofty spot to be called a steadicam-glidecam professional cinematographer. That is a true speciality. :)
Once this gets heavier I can see how most people would like an arm brace support for it. If I were to use this for long professional use I would want that vest and stabilizer arm system.
Still this is a good price point as compared to investing in a real steadicam system!
Good luck with this. It will require practice and lots of patience to get you there.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 121 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Compact Design
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
Useful when filming follow, crane or dolly shots
Extremely smooth no matter what you are doing (running, jumping etc.)
Only need to learn how to operate the direction it which to shoot - make sure you look through the monitor 100% of the time
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Anything
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
just used it on my first shoot and makes your videos look a ton more professional
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
My Use: I use this product for documentaries and music videos.
Pros: It really creates smooth shots even if you have unstable ground to walk on. Very easy to put together and understand the concept for use.
Cons: It takes a little getting use to for balancing the camera and lots of practice for motion shots and moving the camera to get the shots you want.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
this has to be the best stabilizer for the cash. the glidecam alone with out the vest is perfect. I use it for music videos and for weddings. I could not be more happy with my purchase. GET IT! YOU WONT REGET IT!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
I am on a 16 day ski shoot and the glide cam is being used for scenic shots and skiing shots. It is light and easy to carry around. the only thing i can't really think of anything i dont like about it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
Don't get scared with all the reviews saying that this product is hard ( even impossible ) to balance, it's really easy ! Just need to take your time to get the perfect balance, took me like 30 minutes. Then you will have to get use to the movements. It's not a kid's toy, it's a professional tool so of course it will have some challenges ! Amazing product, great quality build, looks really nice. The only downside like everyone is saying, the weight ! You will not be able to shoot an entire day, but anyway the steady cam is useful only in certain situations, not full length video ( most of the times )
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
- A tad heavy
Best Uses
- All your video needs
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
All of you who did not give this product a high rating because it doesn't "work," need to read the instructions. I am sorry if you are incapable of balancing this glide cam-on average it takes one hour but it took me 30 minutes-because I am 15 and could do it.
Nevertheless, this product never fails to smooth my footage and produces amazing quality EVERY time.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
The HD 2000 is awesome, first time using any glide cam/steadicam rig, and easy to use! It takes getting use to when you balance, but once you've learned how, it becomes second nature. I use it mainly for experimental videography and delivers the best quality and helps my footage greatly. HUGE difference when handheld vs. Glidecam
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Independent Films
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
Hey, just got this. It is pretty darn hard to set up the first time, and there are a lot of things to factor in to find the perfect inertia so on so forth. I still haven't found a perfect balance but I'm sure it will come with another hour or two of fidgeting. From test footage I've seen on the net and by friends, it truly does work. I have no personal experience yet. I'm staying hopeful. I will be using this for short films, and for action sports. My biggest challenge is going to be balancing the glidecam while ripping a 40km follow cam on a snowboard. I'm excited to see how this equipment holds up. I gave it four stars just for it's ridiculously hard set up. Which may I add, I will have to go through every time I change from my two main lenses.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Independent Films
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
This is a great camera stabilizer. I bought it to use with the t2i, and so far its worked great it does take a little practice and some time to find the right balance. but its worth it the shots turn out great once you get those two things down. I use the t2i with a battery grip and quick release plate along with the tamron 17-50 2.8 and it was still a little on the light side. The HD 1000 would be a better choice for the canon rebel series, unless you can get the weight heavier with lens, battery grip, ect. Overall a great product would defiantly recommend!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Improves Performance
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
Do not expect to receive this and master quickly. This tool requires a lot of discipline and practice. It accomplishes adequate steadiness for its price point.
Please note that this device is heavy and not intended for long-term shooting without a vest. You should also buy a Manfrotto quick release plate.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
- Very smooth
Cons
- Weight
Best Uses
- Any smooth movie footage
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
Makes my Nikon D3S take very smooth and pro like video.
Takes a little practice but you get the hang of it in no time.
Only one problem is the weight when a large DSLR like a D3S is used on it.The arm brace that I purchased goes along way with helping with the weight distribution.
Assembly and set up was easy and trouble free if you have a solid mount on a table or the like.
I used the steel brace and mount from my arm brace and clamped it to a table so I could take my time when balancing the setup.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Highly Compatible
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Pricey / Poor Value
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
Its a very good quality product, but it needs a lot of practice to use it, it have a good results, but is heavy and dificult to control .
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
i use this product for wedding, sweet 16 and all events. the best balance u ever get.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
This is a really awesome tool, that gives really awesome results. The Glidecam HD2000 looks more professional, is easier to balance, and much easier to use the quick-release with than the regular Glidecam 2000. The results possible from this tool are totally 5 stars, though it does take a lot of practice to get a feel for, and is a bit rough on the wrist and low back. I love this tool, and bring it to almost every shoot.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Somewhat heavy
Best Uses
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
balancing the rig is a but tough but once you get it its the most fun thing ever. make my videos so much better
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Action Sports
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
Bottom line, it gets the job done at a professional quality if used right.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Limited Compatibility
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
Very difficult to balance. Ended up getting the Steadicam Merlin which was a lot easier and lighter to carry.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD2000 Stabilizer System:
The Glidecam HD2000 was a perfect add for my gear.
At first, when i unpacked it, i noticed that all the parts were perfectly wrapped so it's impossible to have a broken or damaged part. The user manuel is perfectly described details by details. Once you have configured you're Glidecam, you're ready to go!
I received my glidecam and need to use it the next day. It was difficult at the beginning but once it's well balanced, you're fine. It improved big time all of my movies and add such a quality. It's very fluid.
The only thing i didn't like is the leverage. Mine was so tight so when i level up or down, it created some scratches on the bottom post..
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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- Original: $98.95
- Save: $9.89
- Price: $89.06
Batteries & Power Adapters
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- Original: $56.35
- Save: $2.82
- Price: $53.53
On-Location Tools
- Price: $79.85
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Bags & Cases
- Price: $169.95
What's in the Box
- 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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