Just an interim update on my Indian blimp purchase (short model),
which I hope will be of interest to possible buyers.
When I first assembled my unit I found that disappointingly, the
lever cams that hold the blimp housing to the rail, were ineffective.
The front one didn't hold at all, and the rear one wasn't
particularly good. I noted that another member of the group had an
identical problem. Although this would have been very simple to
bodge,I decided to test the water. I emailed the company stating the
problem. They replied asking for a photo of the problem (I have a
feeling that this may have been a language problem, and they were
just looking for confirmation of the fault). I sent a photo of one of
the lever cams. They said they would replace the part and confirm
posting, which they did.
The new part arrived this morning, and although only the rail
including cam levers was all that was required, it also included the
handle.
Opinion; very impressed with the company!
Now, I unfortunately am unable to compare this blimp with the Rycote
of which it appears to a 'copy', but my observations are as follows.
>From what I've read it's clear that the construction is less strong
than the Rycote. The blimp ends are attached to the main body by
locating three bayonet lugs and twisting (the framework and lugs are
plastic). I think (?) the Rycote is metal and screws. This said, I
imagine there might be a weight advantage with the plastic. The
supplied fluffy cover is well made, but certainly not as long a pile
as the Rycote. A minor thing, but worth mentioning I think, is that
approximately thirty spare rubber suspension bands are supplied, in
addition to other extras (see eBay ads for details). The plastic
handle, with brass screw insert for boom pole, is very well made and
solid, as are the other parts, with the minor exception as mentioned.
My ME66/K6 fit inside OK with a standard straight XLR connector.
I have yet to test this in 'the field' but even when I do, I will be
unable to compare it to the Rycote, due to not having used one.
In my opinion, this is a very good buy, and I wouldn't hesitate to
recommend it FOR THE PRICE. As has been stated previously, you could
buy several of these for the comparable Rycote set, and if you have
an accident with it, you could replace it and still be 'quids in' as
we say in here.
Max
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