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Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System
The Glidecam HD4000 is a lightweight, hand-held camcorder stabilizing system. This system is upgraded from the 4000 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 4000 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 | 4.0-10.0 lbs (1.8-4.5kg) |
| Vest | Optional Body-Pod |
| Arm | Optional Forearm Support Brace |
| Head Assembly/Top Stage |
Adjustable X,Y Head Dimensions: 8.750 x 5.00 x 1.00" |
| Quick Release | Yes and Camera Plate has 1/4-20 and 3/8" Mounting |
| Docking Bracket | No |
| Dovetail Plate |
Base Platform 13.75 x 4.75"-18.25 x 4.75" |
| Gimbal | Free floating, precision Gimbal |
| Dynamic Spin | 360-degree panning and tilting |
| Post |
Telescoping Central Support Post: 1.00" diameter 20 to 28" |
| Monitor | No (optional monitor could be mounted on Base) |
| Battery | No |
| Battery Mount | No |
| Weight | 3.3 lbs (1.5kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 112 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
96%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Professional quality (91)
- Improves performance (87)
- Easy to use (51)
- Compact (43)
- Highly compatible (42)
Cons
- Heavy (9)
- Lacks functionality (4)
- Poor performance (4)
- Weight (4)
- Pricey / poor value (3)
Best Uses
- Independent films (85)
- Complex projects (60)
- In the studio (27)
- Home movies (25)
- Weddings (8)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Professional artist (58), Business owner (50), Enthusiast (17), Film student (9)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (84)
Most Liked Positive Review
Smooth as silk
The Glidecam HD4000 systems [...] came with clear instructions, images, necessary and addtional hardware. Set up and balance of the system is fairly straight foward and takes approximately 45 minutes to an...Read complete review
The Glidecam HD4000 systems [...] came with clear instructions, images, necessary and addtional hardware. Set up and balance of the system is fairly straight foward and takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour if you carefully follow intructions.Glidecam has excellent support through their website as well as telephone support. I had two small issues that i encountered. A bolt which was incorrectly installed at the base of the system would not let me adjust it telescopically. I removed it and put it through the other side and presto, no problem. The other was the knob you torque down to lock the telescoping section down was not clearing the tube, so with a bit of sandpapper i sanded it down a bit...problem solved.Overall, the system is beautiful and works as advertised. It will take some time for you to get used to manipulatiing one "in flight" but with practice your camera will "fly". The gimble, bearings, worm drive adjusters and quick release plate make this the obvious choice over older models.I did call Glidecam about the issues i listed in this review and they were quick to respond assuring me that the issue would be resolved at the factory.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Too heavy for handheld use
Purchased this to use with a Panasonic DVX100B with shotgun mic, light, and wireless receiver. Total camera package weight was 8 lb (within capacity of this 4-10 pound system). I'm not ...Read complete review
Purchased this to use with a Panasonic DVX100B with shotgun mic, light, and wireless receiver. Total camera package weight was 8 lb (within capacity of this 4-10 pound system). I'm not the strongest arm, but I could not hold this thing up for more than 30 seconds at a time, and it left my arm hurting badly afterward. I ultimately had to return this item, but I purchased a kit with the Glidecam X-10 instead.
I would STRONGLY recommend that if you purchase this item, you also purchase an arm brace or vest to help support the rig.
Other than that, the construction of the device was very solid, and a major improvement over previous devices from Glidecam (particularly the 4000 Pro). The base counter weights can be extended outward to allow more friction on pans, leaving better control than if they were left full center.
The black stylized counterweights on this model also look a LOT more professional than the simple washers on the older units.
Reviewed by 112 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Improves Performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Independent Films
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
same as steady cam just cheaper and perfect for lighter systems
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- steady cam
Pros
- Adds a pro feel to shots
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- Weddings
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
It was a little difficult at first to get the weighting right, but after that, it worked amazingly. Extremely smooth shots. One word of warning: This thing can get heavy. Make sure you have the arm strength to carry this thing around.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
The Glidecam HD4000 is a great Steady unit. I have used it with Panasonic HPX, HVX, Canon 5D, 7D, T2i. The gimbal and easy to balance system is a positive step up from the 4000 Pro. It makes shooting on the go, easier and less stressful. If you use for long periods your wrist, forearms, and back may feel pressure.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- Glidecam Crane
Pros
- Compact Design
- Lightweight
Cons
- Lacks Functionality
Best Uses
- Independent Films
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
THIS IS A WONDERFUL PRODUCT, VERY LIGHT AND VERSATILE, THANK YOU!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Top plate was to big
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
I have not had a chance to use the Glidecam professionally yet but it would have served well on my last project where I was filming a network lunch meeting while it was happening. The Gliedcam is great because it allows the stability of a tripod by setting it on the ground or a table or just braceded on your leg, and the second you need to move to capture some sort action.... your as good as mobile! The one thing I didn't like about it is it was not free.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Adds dynamic
- Compact Design
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
I've had the Glidecam 2000, the HD2000 and finally upgraded to the HD4000 and it has been my best investment in camera equipment to date. Like all Glidecam products (and most counter weight systems) balancing is key and is a laborious process. It is not going to happen in 10 minutes, take the time to make sure it is 100% balanced, otherwise it will be finicky and be reflected in your image. So once you have taken the time to make sure it is balanced, PRACTICE. Practice, practice, practice. It is a very responsive piece of camera equipment that moves with you; if you hold it too tight it gets shaky, if you are not gripping if firm enough you sway side to side, it is easy to bump into with your knees, it is easy to lean forward, hold sideways, etc. Like stated in the title, it is an amazing tool that stabilizes shots and adds great dynamic but like all camera equipment it is not only an investment in money but time. You have to meet the equipment half way and put in the work for it to really shine.
Also, get a quick release adapter (I recommend the Manfrotto 357) you will pull your hair out trying to balance your camera every time you use it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- manfrotto 357 quick release adapter
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Pricey
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Independent Films
- In the field
- In The Studio
- Run Gun
- Travel
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
I got this stabilizer to increase my production value and boy it did! I'm able to get some amazingly fluid shots that bring out a nice effect and also limits the amount of camera shake. Definitely a good value for the quality you get!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Fluid movements
- Independent Films
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
The newer version of the HD4000 is a very welcomed upgrade from the systems previous design. The micro-adjusters are a beautiful added feature that allows you to step you camera's weight forward and backward, and side to side millimeter by millimeter. The new weighting system is a serious step-up from the washer system.
Overall, an incredible product, and with only a small about of practice and adjusting the fluid movements you can make are amazing.
SUGGESTION: Purchase a base-plate mount to attach to the stabilizer for easy connection and removal of your camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
It's a great product. You can walk and run and the camera remains stable. But on the other hand, it is not nice to walk just with the HD4000 stabilizer system. beacause it's very heavy.
So you have to buy also all the set.
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
Amazing results shooting bhts high fashion DSLR on a low budget.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Lacks Quick release mount
- Tricky to Use
Best Uses
- Independent Films
- Weddings
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
I bought this so I can make documentary and weddings vídeos and its just great, after spending some time balancing it properly I could make it fly very smoothly, walking and even running the camera (In my case its a 5DMkII) stayed stabilized. However there are two reasons why I didn't give this 5 stars and its becasue its has a big learning curve in order to balance it well and learn how to use it properly and second becouse it doesnt come with a quick release mount and let me tell you: You are going to need it.
I love the Glidecam HD4000, its worth it, just be patience and get a quick release mount.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Quick Release Mount
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
I bought this bad-boy and couldn't be more excited to be out shooting with it. It's become an addiction comparative to gaming back when I was younger.
I've used it to shoot some action sports, for which it was amazing, and a mock-music video with friends -- also amazing.
Pros: Once you get past the initial balancing, it's very quick, and fun to use. Enables some great shots. Well built, and all-around amazing.
Cons: Near impossible to focus without the right prep. Basically, go deep with focus if you're running solo on this guy which means you need lots of light and high ISO. Also, I bought this guy for my canon 60D with the intention to be as accessible to potential customers with larger cameras as possible -- but it's too big for the 60D. I can add some extra weight to the camera which fixes it for the most part but I'm having a hard time balancing for slow drop times without a heavier camera. It becomes a workout after a while, but that's a person-to-person dealio.
DON'T JUST BUY THIS AND EXPECT IT TO SHOOT PERFECT SHOTS... IT DOES TAKE PRACTICE AND PATIENCE. This is not something to buy if you don't have a little patience. The initial balance + learning to keep it steady are two key areas that may require your patience. Definitely read the instructions manual, take it's advice, look up some videos on how to use it online, and practice!
Depending on who you are, you may be able to start flying immediately, if you're like me (shooting for 12 years), a couple practice runs and you'll start getting shots you're happy with, but I am definitely still practicing and have a long way to go before I'm stoked about how I use it. There are people who it will take more time to pick up... Just be patient, practice, and enjoy!
I highly recommend this product! I am having a ton of fun shooting with it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Tough to get used to
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
wonderful glider --- this excellent product has given me so many amazing shots as an amateur and I am only looking forward to increasingly beautiful shots as I practice more.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
Have had this for one week so far and it's great
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
This is a great product for pretty much anything! I shoot shorts, weddings, music videos, commercials. This provides a nice clean movement. Still getting use to it, but definitely need practice with it to get the best movement.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
I received my HD4000 several days ago.
the product looks nice, even the weight plates feel "smooth" and "well made"
But there's one thing important that goes wrong: the black bolts and thumbs nuts for counter plates. It is obvious the big plastic thumb nut are designed to allow you using hand to screw it. but I found that three of the four thumb nuts are so hard to screw (in fact I hurt my thumb a little bit since I tried too hard using my hand) that I have to use one wrench to hold the bolt, another wrench to screw the thumb nuts.. and because that thumb nuts are made by plastic, they worn after using wrench on them...
This issue is bolt/thunmb nuts only, but I am so Disappointed, couldn't you guys check the matching of bolt/thumb nuts pairs before sending out to customer? I could not imaging the way I use HD4000: need to take 2 wrenches with me otherwise I could not add/remove the weight plates!
I probably won't return the product because of the bolt/thumb nuts, but I really want to know if I can receive another 4 pairs of bolts and thumb nuts which I can operate smoothly only with my hand.
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
- Quality
Cons
- There are none
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
- Outdoors
- Weddings
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
I have used this on my Canon 5D mk ii and XF305 and love this from the fist day. Professional quality and smart design. After watching the first video i was just amazed. The fly through effect is just like pro cinema production (consider that this is hand held). This is a must have product for your HD camera / HDSLR!!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Extreme Learning Curve
Best Uses
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
Extreme learning curve! The build quality is amazing also.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
I have a Canon T2i with a Beachtek, Sennheiser shotgun, and wireless receiver, and had tried to go cheap with a Hague stabilizer. Big mistake. The HD4000 blows away cheaper alternatives. I am still getting used to it, I can't imagine using it with my EX1 without the vest. This is a great tool for DSLR filmmakers. I hope to one day get the vest. I still have a little sway to my shots. I can't tell if I am using enough weight.
Very solid rig, although I have already lost one of the knobs that keep the quick release plate in place.
The only thing I don't like about using a Glidecam is it limits your shots. It's hard to focus while shooting and you forget about tight shots.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Independent Films
Comments about Glidecam HD4000 Stabilizer System:
I purchased this product because it seemed easy to use with DSLRs and it really is amazing! Not so hard to balance (took about 3 hours), it's light and very well built. I use DSLRs because they are small and offer a good image quality when bigger cameras are not the best choice. The Glidecam HD-4000 provides me clean and stable shots creating a very nice flying camera effect. It is a great stabilizer easy to use even in narrower places because the base can turn 90° to be parallel or perpendicular to the camera. It may be a bit heavy after a few minutes of non stop use, but it is not THAT hard to use. Of course, you need a lot of practice to keep it balanced while you run, but it's only a matter of time and adaptation.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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System Extensions
- Price: $14.95
Stands & Mounts
-
- Original: $98.95
- Save: $9.89
- Price: $89.06
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
- Hardware Set
- 90 Day Warranty
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