Freefly Systems add Hocus Axis remote focus capability to their MVI rigs and new controller

Freefly Systems, known for professional next-generation camera stabilization, have added UK Hocus Products Axis1 remote focus system control capability to their new MVI Controller. This means that the Axis1 remote focus system can be used on the Freefly MVI M5, M10 and M15 rigs and controlled directly from the new Freefly MVI Controller. The Axis1 system will be on show on the Freefly stand 9.B23 at IBC2014.

Hocus Products CEO Peter Hoare said In some shooting situations, the gimbal operator may also be needed to pull camera focus. In the past, this has required complicated and cumbersome rigs to mount a focus system to the MoVI controller. With this new integration, the Axis1 receiver and motor can directly be controlled by the focus knob on the Freefly hand controller. This gives the user the freedom to use a separate focus puller, or a single operator when needed.

Renowned DOP, Vincent Laforet, reviews the Axis1 on his blog Ive worked with every wireless follow focus system out there... This is clearly the single best wireless focus I have used in terms of performance and price. The build quality is flawless, the unit is plug and play and calibrates in under 5 seconds. Veteran Hollywood ACs have given this the nod and one called it the Rolls Royce of single channel wireless focus systems. You cant ask for much more than that. This is a hefty investment for most, but its one youll use for quite a long time to come.

The ability to start/stop with many cameras is also a huge plus as the operator (on the MVI) can seldom easily reach to stop/start most cameras as their hands are usually busy holding the unit. Ive also used this system with 30 300mm zoom lenses, stiff cine lenses, and Canon EF lenses they all work wonderfully with what is a fantastic motor. I power this unit w/ D-Tap power most of the time from a camera output, an Anton Bauer battery + plate w/ D-Tap outlet, or directly from a Lipo battery.

Sam Nuttman of Freefly Systems said The integration of Freeflys new MVI Controller with the Axis1 provides accuracy and reliability in a seamless package that enhances dual operator mode with the MVI.

About the Axis1, Peter Hoare says The Axis1 is the most advanced single channel remote focus system out there, at any price. Our motor control and drive electronics surpass all the competition.

Axis1 is designed specifically for the top movie production market where good design, reliability and ease of use are paramount. The system is built to be simple, straightforward, robust and easy to use there are no silly features and nothing that you need to get the manual out for rental companies and their customers love the simplicity.

I have this philosophy which I call OBOF One Button One Function no multiple button pushes or complicated menus to call up a function thats just not practical in a high pressure shooting situation.

Although aimed at Hollywood and other higher end movie production markets it crosses also to Steadicam owner ops and Focus Pullers who want to own their own remote focus device.

The new digital drive motor is the cornerstone of the Axis1. It is compatible with many other existing follow focus devices, supports auto end stops and auto torque calibration with our receiver so that there is always just sufficient power to rotate the lens without the risk of damage. The motor uses a unique drive train which leaves it with only two moving parts, resulting in almost silent, and very reliable operation

The Axis1 has user updatable firmware via USB and is FCC certified for use in the USA.

Based in the UK, Hocus Products produces wireless remote focus solutions for all types of lenses, from DSLR, broadcast, right up to large 35mm prime and zoom lenses. Sales and service is handled directly or through dealers with service in North America being handled by its partner Hot Rod Cameras based in Hollywood, near Paramount Studios.

The electronics and software of the Axis 1 have been developed by partners at Jackson Woodburn, manufacturers of motion control systems for which they have won a technical Oscar.

Hocus Products is dedicated to producing products of the highest quality using only the finest components and materials and as a result they are able to offer a three year warranty on all Axis 1 products.

"We realise that we are not infallible and undertake to repair or replace any unit that becomes faulty as quickly and efficiently as possible says Peter.

www.hocusproducts.com

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