Balvanz Enterprises

Mounting a Sony NEX-5n

2011-12-10T02:00:00.001-06:00

If you happen to have a Sony NEX-5n and are considering one of our products. Thanks to Emric Delton we have a quick guide as to what is needed to make it work with the MiniDV Stabilizer.

SONY NEX-5n and Balvanz Stabilizer - balancing adjustments from caeruspistis on Vimeo.

December Sales Event

2011-12-01T01:03:00.000-06:00

10-50% off select items at BalvanzEnterprises.com
Offer ends Dec 31 2011

Dolly Wheels - New!

2011-11-29T13:05:00.001-06:00

Just in time for Christmas, we would like to introduce our new Dolly Wheels. Compatible with the MiniDV Stabilizer, and Specter Stabilizer they add multiple shots to the stabilizers arsenal. They take less than 60 seconds to install and are perfect for tabletop or floor rolling shots.

Super fast install
Solid aluminum construction
Durable black powder coat finish for long lasting performance.
Adds multiple shots to the stabilizers arsenal.
Compatible with: MiniDV Stabilizer, Specter Stabilizer.

Get yours today at: http://balvanzenterprises.com/DollyWheels.html

DIY 2-Axis Gimbal Kit

2011-10-01T15:33:00.000-05:00

A little something for the DIY crowd. We are now offering a 2-axis stabilizer gimbal kit. Perfect for the DIY'er that lacks the tools needed to get their stabilizer project started. Video assembly instructions can be found below.

http://balvanzenterprises.com/DIY2-AxisGimbalKit.html

The Specter Stabilizer Demo Footage

2011-09-22T14:07:00.000-05:00

Demo footage of our new Specter Stabilizer. Weather conditions were not in our favor with wind gusts up to 35mph and average wind speeds of 10-15mph, however the Specter Stabilizer performed beautifully in most conditions. Due to the weather, the stabilizer was loaded up to full weight with inertial dampers to help control stability. The Specter Stabilizer is a great low cost alternative to other STEADICAM® style Stabilizers. STEADICAM® is a registered trademark of The Tiffen Company.

After reviewing the settings on the camera we found that this video was actually shot zoomed in slightly.

Equipment:
The Specter Stabilizer
Sony DCR-HC28

Check out the latest Specter Stabilizer listings at:
http://balvanzenterprises.com/SpecterStabilizer.html

$10 off for 10 days!

2011-09-20T15:44:00.001-05:00

The Hard Shell Case, MiniDV Stabilizer Pro and the Specter Stabilizer are all on sale until Sep 30th 2011.

Introducing The Specter Stabilizer

2011-08-31T14:54:00.000-05:00

We gave you a sneak preview a few days ago, now it's time to introduce our new stabilizer, the Specter. Weighing in only 1 1/2oz heaver than our previous model the MiniDV Stabilizer, it packs a punch of new features.

1. Extendable from 13 1/2in to 23in tall
2. Movable gimbal allows vertical balance to be adjusted in multiple ways.
3. Inertial dampers reduce unwanted rotation.
4. High precision ceramic main bearing and Teflon sealed side bearings offer optimal performance by reducing bearing friction.
5. Up to 12 different ways it can be set up to suit your filming style.
6. Supports cameras from 0-5.5pounds. That's not a typo, the movable gimbal allows the vertical balance to actually go all the way down to zero. So all those Flip, Kodak and other micro cameras are supported. It should also be noted that the 5.5pound max is the maximum camera setup the stabilizer will support with the weights included, but not necessarily your arm because it does get heavy.
7. Extended inverted flight support by removing the gimbal and flipping it upside down.
8. Includes a SLIK DQ-20 quick release mount.
9. Hard shell case is included standard.
10. Ultra durable high gloss black powder coat paint.

Check it out at: http://balvanzenterprises.com/SpecterStabilizer.html

Sneak Preview - Prototype Stabilizer

2011-08-26T01:00:00.000-05:00

A little sneak preview of what's just around the corner, a snap shot of our new prototype stabilizer gimbal assembly. Custom milled aluminium/ABS plastic combo for a light weight and fully adjustable setup. It features a ceramic main bearing and teflon sealed side bearings for super smooth camera flow.

Stay tuned, as the release is in the works.

March Sales

2011-03-02T20:27:00.004-06:00

Now that it's starting to warm up across the country, more of you are going to be headed out to film on location. That's why we want to set you up with everything you need to make that happen. Our new Hard Shell Case will protect your investment on the go and with new locations, comes new lighting conditions too, so we are offering a 20% discount on our 3x5" gray cards to keep those colors in line. Offer ends March 31st.

We're Adding UPS shipping

2011-02-25T20:41:00.002-06:00

While we were looking for new ways to save you money, we tracked down a big one. After shipping a couple of our hard shell cases, we found the post office is charging extra for the size of the item. That's why we'll be switching to UPS for domestic shipments of the hard shell case. This change could save you up to $14 on shipping!

Exceptions: Hawaii, Alaska

New for 2011!

2011-01-29T18:49:00.004-06:00

Want a professional look at a low price? We are proud to introduce our new Hard Shell Case; big enough for our standard MiniDV Stabilizer and a small camera, or the MiniDV Stabilizer Pro at full length. It comes pre-cut to fit both units and has additional diced foam to allow you to add some of your accessories as well.

Check out our website to find out more.
BalvanzEnterprises.com/HardShellCase.html

User Submission - Long Boarding with Tony

2010-12-23T17:38:00.004-06:00

A great example of what can be done on a super low budget. No need for an expensive camera dolly, simply strap on some inline skates and off you go.

"I'm using the Canon HF S20 with a WD-H58 wide angle adapter, and my new Balvanz MiniDV Stabilizer. I shot in 60i Program mode, set to vivid color. And of course, inline skates."

Back up and running

2010-12-08T22:39:00.002-06:00

We are officially back up and running folks. We've settled in to our new location and already have a few of the standard MiniDV Stabilizer units available. We hope to have the Pros available sometime tomorrow as we are just waiting on a batch of Off-Set plates. Thanks for your patience.

We're Moving!

2010-11-23T22:36:00.009-06:00

We're moving to a new location to serve you better. Our new location is nearly three times larger than our current location and offers many new improvements. One of the biggest improvements is our new climate controlled HVLP paint spraying booth. This will not only improve the overall quality of the paint, but it also allows us to paint more parts at a time, speeding up one of our biggest bottlenecks. HVLP paint sprayers also reduce over spray to less than 20%. The new sprayer reduces waste, making it more efficient and more environmentally friendly. Our shipping department has also expanded, allowing for faster shipping times and more space for storage. The big move will be from the 26th of Nov to the 5th of Dec. We will not be taking orders during that time and we hope to have everything back up and running shortly after the 5th of Dec. We apologize for the inconvenience. Thank you for your patience.

Introducing the Main Tube Foam Grip

2010-09-16T21:25:00.014-05:00

We are proud to introduce our new product the Main Tube Foam Grip. Giving you more control, stability and sensitivity than ever before. The main tube foam grip supplies it all. The larger diameter of the grip allows for finer panning adjustment. The soft grip reduces vibrations transferred from your hands. And to top it all off we are giving the first 10 away FREE!

So how do I get one, you ask? Simply post a video online reviewing, demonstrating, or shooting, using your MiniDV Stabilizer. Videos should be at least 1-2 minutes long, and include a link to BalvanzEnterprises.com at the end of the video as well as in the description. After you're done uploading your video, email us with your name and address to
CustomerSupport@BalvanzEnterprises.com, and we will send you one.

Video Submission #1

From: Jon in Twin Lake, MI

Video Submission #2

From: Vladimir in Sweden

MiniDV Stabilizer Pro

2010-08-21T22:17:00.006-05:00

Designed for the serious user in mind. This package includes everything you need to get the job done right the first time. Support for up to 3.5pound cameras, DSLR's, unbalanced cameras, and the counter-weighting to fine tune the unit to perfect balance. As an added bonus, we included our new White Balance Gray Card to keep those colors in line. All while saving you money. Don't worry, your wallet can thank us later .

Balvanz Enterprises - MiniDV Stabilizer Pro

Weight reduction

2010-06-11T22:54:00.005-05:00

Lighter is better. At least your arm will think so. Which is why we are trimming the weight. The original gimbal rings were made of PVC plastic. It's heavy, not environmentally friendly, and just ends up in the land fill. So we're switching to ABS plastic. It's lighter, easily recycled, and doesn't need to be painted. Trust us, your arm will thank us later.

Tight Budget? Looking to Save a Few Bucks?

2010-06-09T22:24:00.003-05:00

Check out or used inventory listings. Units returned by customers are fully inspected, tested, and ready to ship out today. All units are sold with the additional accessories returned at the time. A great way to come in under budget without sacrificing performance.

Balvanz Enterprises - Used Inventory Listings

New White Balance Gray Cards

2010-05-24T02:13:00.004-05:00

Don't let poor color ruin your next shot. Our new gray cards will keep those colors in line. Simply use the manual color correction included with most MiniDV and DSLR's to bring out the best in your next scene. Made of water and scratch resistant laminate material, they take the guess work out of color correction.

For a limited time you will receive the New White Balance Gray Card absolutely free with a $100+ order.

Offer ends Jun 30 2010.

2010-04-24T23:05:00.009-05:00

Introducing our new promotional video for the MiniDV Stabilizer. I'd like to give a shout out to the SonicBaller Productions team for a job well done!

http://sonicballerproductions.blogspot.com/

New User Submitted Short Film! - Trade

2010-03-11T21:15:00.006-06:00

Trade. Submitted by: Splintersilk on Vimeo.

"It can be great when you try to find yourself. It's a different matter when yourself comes looking for you."

A micro-short filmed on the Panasonic Lumix GH1, with FD lenses and the Panasonic LA7200 Anamorphic adapter, mounted on a MiniDV Stabilizer. I really hope you like it :) Feedback and comments massively welcomed!

http://www.facebook.com/splintersilk

NEW 3" Extension Kit - Adds support for 2.25-3.5 pound cameras

2010-02-03T22:01:00.006-06:00

The new 3" Extension Kit for the MiniDV Stabilizer adds support for cameras in the 2.25-3.5 pound camera range. By extending the unit by 3" it effectively increases the weight rating to 2-3.5 pounds with the additional weight supplied. As an added bonus, we will be including a Universal Camera Off-Set Plate with the first 5 units. Perfect for unbalanced DSLR and other cameras using wide angle or telephoto lenses. A $12.95 value.

MiniDV Stabilizer Maximum Weight Range

2009-11-20T23:23:00.005-06:00

It has been brought to our attention that several of our customers have had problems getting cameras around the 2 pound range to balance on the MiniDV Stabilizer. Upon testing one of the units, we found one of the parts to be lighter than when the unit was originally designed. This change reduced the maximum weight of cameras used with our product to 1 pound 14.5 oz. To counter-act this issue, we will be including 4 additional large counter weights, and longer mounting screws to bring the maximum rating back up to 2.25 pounds.

If you received a unit in the past several months, and have had problems balancing a camera in the 2 pound range, please contact us at the e-mail address listed below, and we would be happy to send you the additional weights, or compensate you for the weights we did not include. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
CustomerService@BalvanzEnterprises.com

Website problems

2009-11-19T22:57:00.004-06:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that we have been experiencing some website problems lately. We have contacted our web host and they have yet to resolve the issue for us. Please bear with us, we hope to be back up and running 100% soon.

New Environmentally Friendly Paint

2009-10-27T20:09:00.006-05:00

That's right folks, we're going green. We are officially switching to an environmentally friendly Rust-Oleum Semi-Gloss Black paint that contains zero VOC/HAP chemicals. It is also more durable and scratch resistant then the previous paint. So unless specifically noted, all MiniDV Stabilizers sold after the 23rd of Nov 2009 will include this paint. Check out the new look here.