When operating a gimbal, it can be tricky to evaluate your shot solely through your camera’s built-in monitor, especially if the entire unit is constantly rotating away from your face. To remedy this issue, it’s best to invest in a field monitor that is small and lightweight enough to carry on a gimbal. And, what a better solution than getting a dedicated monitor crafted by the gimbal maker itself.
This is where the latest Zhiyun-Tech’s TransMount Monitor comes in. In essence, it’s a 5.5” HD on-camera monitor that’s specifically aimed at the Zhiyun Crane 2 users. Now, let’s take a closer look at the newcomer and see what it actually brings to the table.
Specs-wise, the TransMount LCD monitor sports a full 1920 x 1080p IPS panel with a 160-degree viewing angle that supports up to 4K HDMI input signals. The display also has 1000:1 contrast ratio providing great definition between shadows, midtones, and highlights. The 8-bit panel produces decent colors, although it shouldn’t be considered as the monitor’s biggest selling point by any means.
With a brightness of 330nits, it seems that the Zhiyun TransMount meets the basic standards when it comes to field monitors. However, for those planning to predominantly shoot outdoors in the sun, it’s recommended to use the included sun hood for optimal visibility of the screen.
Other than that, the monitor’s design is small and compact which is essential when operating the accessory onto a gimbal, a device that is sensitive to drastic changes in weight. Interestingly enough, the manner in which the monitor can be mounted is through the use of Zhiyun’s bendable pipe accessory. The pipe attaches to the bottom of the gimbal while the monitor mounts to the pipe via a 1/4 20” screw.
To run the device, you can either use a Sony NP-F style battery or connect the unit to the power output of the Crane 2 gimbal stabilizer. Just make sure that the mounting arm is able to support the battery weight in case you opt for the Sony battery option.
Furthermore, the TransMount LCD Monitor packs a slew of video assist features including color peaking, false color, markers, zebra, and a volume bar for audio monitoring. There also a 3.5mm headphone jack on the unit that allows you to control the audio feed coming from your camera. Zhiyun has also provided HDMI cables with silicone cases for uncluttered storage, a DC power cable, and a carry pouch for storing everything.
Zhiyun-Tech TransMount 5.5” On-Camera Monitor Highlights
- 1920 x 1080 Full HD IPS LCD
- 160° Viewing Angle
- Supports up to 4K HDMI Input Signals
- Headphone Output
- Focus Peaking, Peaking Color, Zebra
- False Color, Histogram, Volume Bar
- Safe Area, Camera Mode, Monochrome
- Removable Sun Hood
- HDMI Cables
- Carry Pouch
- Price: $249 US
All in all, if you’re someone who currently uses Zhiyun’s Crane 2 gimbal, the TransMount LCD Monitor should definitely be considered as a must-have accessory for your shooting kit. Being able to see your video feed on a slightly larger screen from different angles can be a huge advantage, not to mention the fact that it significantly improves proper framing.
While the $249 price tag may seem steep to some shooters, the cost is definitely worth the ease-of-use as well as the additional screen real estate and extra monitoring features that you get right off the bat.
[source: Momentum Productions]
Order link:
Zhiyun-Tech TransMount 5.5” On-Camera Monitor (B&H, Amazon)
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate partner and participant in B&H and Adorama Affiliate programmes, we earn a small comission from each purchase made through the affiliate links listed above at no additional cost to you.
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