Which glidcam to get?

[FNH]

I am planning on filming a event for my school on April 20th. Before that, I would like to get a glidcam, or something like that.
I would be using a 550d most of the time on it. But, bonus if my fathers XL1 can go on it as well. I know they have a big weight difference so its not the end of the world.

I can't seem to find much information comparing all the brands and models in my searches.
POTN, what's your opinion?

[Sickone]

Merlin Steadicam

Or

Glidecam 2000 will be my choice eventually

[Photo99]

The Merlin.

Photo99

[chris joy]

I don't think you can mount a XL1 on a merlin, its too heavy and it will not balance. I've had bigger Sony cameras like the Z1U on a Glidecam HD2000 and it was fine, the camera also had a mic and big Sony video light mounted. The Glidecam is about 1/2 the price of the Merlin and does the job as well. The bigger issue is its a PITA to balance any steadycam, so switching cameras isn't easy - its not like a tripod - you can't just pop one off and slap another on and fly. For something as large as a XL1 you would need some sort of vest for anything longer than a couple minutes, stabilizers use counterweights to steady the camera, the heavier the camera the more counterweights you need. That's why I used a vest - the Sony mounted to the HD2000 was about 12 pounds, not easy to walk around with for very long. It was much easier with my 5d2 and a 17-40L, I could easily handhold it as long as needed. It is still a workout, lighter is better, the 550d with a nice wide prime and you're good to go.

[90pae]

How about a FlyCam Nano DSLR? works and looks pretty much like a glidecam 2000 but it's way cheaper. just make sure you search for the version with "dslr" at the end, there is a flycam nano version without "dslr" for lighter cameras

90pae

[FNH]

Thanks guys! I decided to go with the Flycam nano dlsr for now, and will later invest in a heavier glidecam for the XL1.