I'm working on a project that I need a monorail camera for, and I am drowning a bit in the options.
I've shot a variety of monorails and field cameras before, but nothing I currently own will work for this (I am mostly an MF shooter).
Without going into too many details, I am looking for a monorail that allows for the following:
1) Able to use a broad quantity of lenses with some movements (75mm at the wide end and probably 420 at the telephoto end).
2) Reasonably light as work will be in the field and involve moving location frequently.
3) High rigidity and with smooth geared focusing and movements (I will need to be able to make very precise adjustments).
4) Preferably I'd like something not too fiddily to break down and set-up, as I will have to do so frequently.
Of course, I am also a bit at mercy of what I can find available. In my research I've been most attracted to the Arca-Swiss C (if I can find a good copy). The Sinar Alpina also seemed like a possible option, as it appears to be lighter than the F series (which I think is just a touch too heavy for this). The Canham DLC and Linhof Technikardan 45s both look great but are usually be out of my price range - if either is head-and-shoulders going to be better I can probably cough up the dough though.
Other suggestions/thoughts from those who have shot with a greater variety than I? I am trying to keep the camera under 6lbs w/o lens, preferably closer to 4.5lbs although I am willing to sacrifice weight for quality build and smooth operation.
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