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Gear / Technical Help => Microphones & Setup => Topic started by: tim in jersey on November 20, 2011, 10:46:44 PM

Title: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 20, 2011, 10:46:44 PM
Admin alert: feel free to move this thread anywhere you like, but I feel as though this thread deserves it's own sticky here, on this board.

When I first started taping 10+ years ago with my first rig I had mics, "t-bar", shockmounts, a recorder, and a stand. I had decent rig, but pulled shitty tapes for a while because I couldn't position my mics in the sweet spot due to venue restrictions. As I've become more aware of where the sweet spots are in the venues I typically haunt, I've become more savvy as to how to get my mics in the sweet spot.

I'm hoping this becomes the ts.com de facto clamping/rigging info thread. I'm trying to consolidate all clamping and rigging threads into 1 handy go-to spot. Inspired by a convo between fellow clamp-aholic F.O.Bean and I on a yard-sale thread.

I own 4 superclamps (2 are the real-deal the others are knock-offs), 2 Rowi 76's, 1 Cardellini Mic clamp (beaster), 1 Windtech, 12 or so Windtech knock-offs (from a site remediation. they were going to get thrown in the dumpster).  And I ain't done yet. :o

I'm going to start perusing ts.com and posting links to other relevant ts.com threads, photos, and other tidbits here as time and motivation allows.

My first contribution is a Railroad Earth show from October 6, '11. Clamped to balcony rail DFC, 2-3' extender pole.

Photos: https://plus.google.com/u/0/photos/114775014104918758740/albums/5667528821496032545  <- let me know if the link works. Google photos still baffles me at times.
Results: http://www.archive.org/details/rre2011-10-06.mk4v.din.flac16

Have fun, reply, and share your wisdom.

ETA: added links so they appear on 1st post...

clamp cap screw replacement (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=30005.0)
Best clamp for theater seat arms (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=150670.0)
Clamping to Balcony Handrail (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=149191.0)
Need help with Clamp and extension pole (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=145055.0)
Innovative Set-Ups (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=145466.msg1871807#msg1871807)
My Versatile Extension Pole - With Pics  (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=110425.0)
Balcony Clamp Question (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=124788.0)
Clamps - weights (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=122917.msg1637491#msg1637491)
clamps for a thick beam? (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=131879.msg1731964#msg1731964)
POLL: How many clamps do you own? (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=129949.0)
newbie to clamps needs assistance please (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=130361.msg1718300#msg1718300)
Help With Balcony Clamping (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=103678.0)
clamps (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=2456.0)
ISO stand accessory-- do you know of one? (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=150309.0)
Rowi Ballheads for clamps (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=152384.0)
Homemade clamps and hangers (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=135654)
Clamping at Red Rocks' FOH rail (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=158179)
Photos of Safety Cable in use (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=154079.msg1949156#msg1949156) <-- Links back to this thread, but thought I'd add it anyhow...
Clamp help! (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=161596.msg2031158#msg2031158)
First time clamping from a balcony (sorry pictures are kind of dark) (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=163695.msg2051070#msg2051070)
Windtech clamp question (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=165687.0)
super clamp handle threading? (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=174610.0)
Using an endless ratchet strap for securing a stand (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=181676.msg2223360#msg2223360)
Camvate Crab Clamp review (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=189968.0;topicseen)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 20, 2011, 10:51:30 PM
Im not done either. I scour ebay constantly :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 20, 2011, 11:00:16 PM
Hey Bean.

I think it was you that first suggested that a tire valve cap was the best replacement for the plastic thingy on the threaded shaft of a windtech clamp that we all lose eventually. Good advice. Been on my windtech for years now...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 21, 2011, 12:08:36 AM
Hey Bean.

I think it was you that first suggested that a tire valve cap was the best replacement for the plastic thingy on the threaded shaft of a windtech clamp that we all lose eventually. Good advice. Been on my windtech for years now...

Yep, that was me! Im  glad its worked well for so many peo[ple :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 21, 2011, 12:30:01 AM
I'm addicted to getting my mics in the "spot"... :laugh:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: One Cylinder on November 21, 2011, 04:48:56 AM
I'm addicted to getting my mics in the "spot"... :laugh:

......... unfortunately the "spot" usually isn't in the designated tapers' section. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on November 21, 2011, 06:51:26 AM
Related clamp-repair topic.... on one of my ultraclamps I seem to have lost the disc connected to the screw that holds the clamp to a stand.  Luckily it still worked on the flat wood surface I had to clamp to the other day, but no way will it stay on a stand like this.  Any thoughts on a replacement?  The clamp is inexpensive, so I could buy a new one, but...

I own 2 superclamps, one of the manfrotto table clamps, and 2 ultraclamps.  Plus a Manfrotto 099B, a Matthews extension pole, a Manfrotto single articulated arm, and a Manfrotto double articulated arm.  The arms in particular are key.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: bryonsos on November 21, 2011, 07:00:43 AM
Great thread!

At one of our local venues, the only practical way to be in the sweet spot is to hang down from the balcony over it. Thanks to hoppedup I learned this technique using:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/252212-REG/Manfrotto_649_649_Quick_Action_Release.html
and a:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33185-REG/Matthews_429499_Telescopic_Baby_Stand_Extension.html
along with safety straps of course:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/195824-REG/Altman_SC_36_BK_Steel_Safety_Cable_Black.html

I also use a Windtech and a K&M for pole and stand clamping:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/232847-REG/K_M_23800_500_55_Microphone_Mount.html
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 21, 2011, 07:41:51 AM
I'm addicted to getting my mics in the "spot"... :laugh:

......... unfortunately the "spot" usually isn't in the designated tapers' section.

There are ways, as you probably know.  ;)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: silentmark on November 21, 2011, 08:01:49 AM
Pictures and product links would be fantastic, nice work timme ...see ya this weekend ?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 21, 2011, 08:03:50 AM
Pictures and product links would be fantastic, nice work timme ...see ya this weekend ?

Yeah, I figure I'm due for a case of w00k flu.

Bring a clamp.  ;)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 21, 2011, 08:07:55 AM
I'll be working on pics and links eventually, BTW.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=129949.0
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on November 21, 2011, 11:24:31 AM
The Manfrotto double articulated arm (http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-396B-Section-Articulated-Bracket/dp/B000MWWXJ2) is a real lifesaver for me in a local venue here where the only taping spots of any kind are on either side of the board, and therefore off-center. I get closer to center - and avoid running a sightline-blocking stand - by running the mics at the height of the engineers' heads on the double articulated arm. DPAs in this pic, but the arm can easily hold fullsize SDCs in this config as well.

(Sorry that the photo is oriented wrong... not really fixable on work computer)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 21, 2011, 11:34:50 AM
What venue is that?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 21, 2011, 12:04:18 PM
Link to the Superclamp knock-off I like. I like the fact that the handle is a lever style as opposed to a T-handle. You can get more leverage. And the real kicker here is the handle is ratcheting. I know I've had situations where I needed .5 or .75 more of a turn to get a good "bite" but the handle was obstructed. Not an issue with the ratcheting handle.


http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/690391-REG/Photek_SB_84GCS_Grip_Clamp_with_Stud.html
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on November 21, 2011, 12:10:01 PM
What venue is that?

Bowery Ballroom, NYC
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: MIQ on November 21, 2011, 09:27:00 PM
Thanks Tim!

I have some of these bookmarked but this thread get's everything in one spot.  Is there any chance you could include the thread topic title along with the link as a reminder which link is which thread?  I realize the topic title may not really distinguish subjects or clamps discussed but it's better than nothing.  Here's another one:

Topic: CLAMP.
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=135378.0;all (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=135378.0;all)

-MIQ
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 21, 2011, 09:42:42 PM
Thanks Tim!

I have some of these bookmarked but this thread get's everything in one spot.  Is there any chance you could include the thread topic title along with the link as a reminder which link is which thread?  I realize the topic title may not really distinguish subjects or clamps discussed but it's better than nothing.  Here's another one:

Topic: CLAMP.
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=135378.0;all (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=135378.0;all)

-MIQ

You're welcome. Good suggestion.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 21, 2011, 10:43:05 PM
Nice work Tim :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 21, 2011, 11:38:11 PM
Nice work Tim :)

Thanks, Bean. I've been bringing home the heat for quite a few years/shows thanks to where I set up, courtesy of a few clamps.

Like real estate, Location is everything.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 21, 2011, 11:52:56 PM
I know there is a ts.com thread titled "balcony clamping" or similar that was a great resource, but I can't find it. Links?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: flipp on November 22, 2011, 12:24:12 AM
any reason you're making each link a sep er ate post?

while it's nice to have these all in one thread it would be easier for me to follow/find useful information if you edited your first post to include all of the links rather than having to scroll through pages of posts containg one link per post
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: hoppedup on November 22, 2011, 08:17:42 AM
any reason you're making each link a sep er ate post?

while it's nice to have these all in one thread it would be easier for me to follow/find useful information if you edited your first post to include all of the links rather than having to scroll through pages of posts containg one link per post

x2
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 22, 2011, 10:23:20 AM
any reason you're making each link a sep er ate post?

while it's nice to have these all in one thread it would be easier for me to follow/find useful information if you edited your first post to include all of the links rather than having to scroll through pages of posts containg one link per post

Good idea. I was adding them stream of conciousness. I can consolidate when I get a little down-time.


ETA: Done.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian E. on December 05, 2011, 04:23:05 PM
subscribed!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on December 05, 2011, 05:38:01 PM
I'm addicted to getting my mics in the "spot"... :laugh:


Me too ;D My last show, where I have pretty much free reign of the place, I went 10' FOB/DFC, and was told to "move back a little" :) So I did. I moved back about 5 ft at MOST :P ;D I was STILL in da sweet spot, and my Space Panda/Papadosio recordings all SMOKE because of it. Its very important for me to get nice and dead center, and in 90% of the time, thats where I record from. And if it helps me pull a SICKASS recording, then Im going to keep trying to get FOB/DFC, unless told otherwise :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on December 05, 2011, 06:03:22 PM
Started hanging my Superclamp / 099b / Quickrelease combo at the Tractor Tavern, a 350 capacity club here in Seattle.  After the Mickey show, the local taping crew has decided we should do a permanent hang with a dedicated set of cables back to the "Taper Section" in the back booth by the board. 20' back DFC. Plan on swapping the Superclamp for a Grid Clamp with Baby Pin, so that it would be more secure.

 ;D

http://www.archive.org/details/mhb2011-12-01.scoobiesnax.flac16 was recorded this way, got in day before to hang rig and run cables.

Stand? Yeah there's one in my trunk. Don't use it.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gutbucket on December 05, 2011, 06:04:51 PM
I should have taken a photo last Wed. Had a 'figure it out there' type clamp situation which worked out great- low profile, looked purpose designed and down right 'rakish'.  It was a spur of the moment visit to a second recording gig about halfway through the show.  I semi-configured in the lot, threw a few clamps and an extra extension in cargo pants pockets, talked my way in past the doorman and rapidly clamped to an angled staircase railing that decends from the soundboard down into a pit dance floor area between the SBD and stage. The quick, effortless and streamlined setup prompted a silent, smiling thumbs-up from an otherwise dour looking sound guy.  Unfortunately though I missed a guest apperance by Billy Gibbons earlier in the set.

Teh clampage: Adorama superclamp knockoff holding two 20" heat shrink covered DIY threaded rod extensions screwed together and supporting a Moke-bar with upside down AT shocks suspended beneath it.  The cool part? With the rig extending perpendicular the angled handrail, it placed the mics both up a few feet over the head level of those on the floor, as well as out and forward from the raised barstool seating along the railing to either side of the stair case and SBD.  The knuckles on the shocks hanging from below bar let me angle the mics upwards a bit toward the hanging line array PA and made the thing look custom designed for that specific scenario.  Mics centered in the room right were I wanted them.  Scoped, configured, wired and rolling in under a minute 30 seconds.  Cool. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Chris K on December 06, 2011, 01:20:13 PM
Great, great thread. Thanks!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: cashandkerouac on December 06, 2011, 01:39:56 PM
yep, totally agree.  this is an excellent thread.  thanks Tim!!!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: bryonsos on December 06, 2011, 03:52:45 PM
Forgot about this thread when I posted this in Rig Pics the other day:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=151839.0
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on December 06, 2011, 05:36:35 PM
yep, totally agree.  this is an excellent thread.  thanks Tim!!!

No problemo, gents. Hopefully this will get stickied by the mods (hint, hint).
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian Skalinder on December 07, 2011, 12:25:44 PM
Good thread!  Rather than have loads of stickied threads at the top of each forum, we've long had a single README1ST post that combines a variety of often discussed topics.  So I've created an "All About Clamps and Extension Poles" section in this forum's stickied README1ST thread, with links to this and a few other threads on the topic.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on December 19, 2011, 10:26:30 PM
For the manfrotto 649,

1) does the silver stud/screw on top detatch? If so, whats the stud size (hopefully 5/8th standard stud).
2) Assuming yes to the above, has anyone tried a stud with a hex base (still 5/8th standard stud, but has a hex base for locking)? Can you get the stud in far enough to "lock" it without being impeded by the hex base?

I'm trying to go [649 clamp > 396-AB arm > rapid adaptor > 237HD arm] for a specific venue which has a parallel/rectangle support structure (so superclamping is not optimum). I'm tempted to buy the 649 but I'd like to verify some stuff first.

3) Is there anything better than the 649 that I can buy new (likely to need it soon) that fits the above requirements? I know johnw didn't like the 649, I swear I was there when his broke, so I figured I'd ask.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on December 19, 2011, 11:10:34 PM
Here's a first for me. Clamped to a clamp this past weekend.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: flipp on December 20, 2011, 12:28:30 AM
For the manfrotto 649,

1) does the silver stud/screw on top detatch? If so, whats the stud size (hopefully 5/8th standard stud).

Nondetachable 3/8-16


Quote
2) Assuming yes to the above, has anyone tried a stud with a hex base (still 5/8th standard stud, but has a hex base for locking)? Can you get the stud in far enough to "lock" it without being impeded by the hex base?

The post will recess into the sleeve far enough to get a double-ended stud in the sleeve and the set-screw will lock it in. Sorry, no hex end stud here to check whether it will slide in the "sleeve".


Quote
I'm trying to go [649 clamp > 396-AB arm > rapid adaptor > 237HD arm] for a specific venue which has a parallel/rectangle support structure (so superclamping is not optimum). I'm tempted to buy the 649 but I'd like to verify some stuff first.

3) Is there anything better than the 649 that I can buy new (likely to need it soon) that fits the above requirements? I know johnw didn't like the 649, I swear I was there when his broke, so I figured I'd ask.

If the support structure is too large for a superclamp perhaps a small bar clamp (http://www.harborfreight.com/catalogsearch/result?keyword=bar+clamp) would attach to the structure allowing you to attach a second (super or windtech c) clamp.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on December 20, 2011, 08:04:24 AM
For the manfrotto 649,

1) does the silver stud/screw on top detatch? If so, whats the stud size (hopefully 5/8th standard stud).

Nondetachable 3/8-16


Quote
2) Assuming yes to the above, has anyone tried a stud with a hex base (still 5/8th standard stud, but has a hex base for locking)? Can you get the stud in far enough to "lock" it without being impeded by the hex base?

The post will recess into the sleeve far enough to get a double-ended stud in the sleeve and the set-screw will lock it in. Sorry, no hex end stud here to check whether it will slide in the "sleeve".

So it an extend, but does that come out so I can put a different stud in it or is it that it doesn't come out, but does go deep enough I can stick something over top of it and lock it?

If the support structure is too large for a superclamp perhaps a small bar clamp (http://www.harborfreight.com/catalogsearch/result?keyword=bar+clamp) would attach to the structure allowing you to attach a second (super or windtech c) clamp.

Maybe, but I'd still need the extra clamp in that case for the 396AB arm. If I can find a C-style clamp that accommodates the "manfrotto light stud system" than I'd do it, but otherwise I'm up to a standard heavy duty generic C clamp and just put my super off of that which I'd rather avoid if possible.

On the positive side, at least I know that the 649 is probably not what I'm after.

Here's a first for me. Clamped to a clamp this past weekend.

I've done that before, both premeditated and spontaneous. A surface is a surface as long as it's solid and you don't exceed weight restrictions.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: flipp on December 20, 2011, 09:03:05 AM
Quote
Quote
2) Assuming yes to the above, has anyone tried a stud with a hex base (still 5/8th standard stud, but has a hex base for locking)? Can you get the stud in far enough to "lock" it without being impeded by the hex base?

The post will recess into the sleeve far enough to get a double-ended stud in the sleeve and the set-screw will lock it in. Sorry, no hex end stud here to check whether it will slide in the "sleeve".

So it an extend, but does that come out so I can put a different stud in it or is it that it doesn't come out, but does go deep enough I can stick something over top of it and lock it?

The post is not designed to come out - but it can with some manipulation. If you want to use a stud with either no or different threads it would be easier to recess the post far enough into the sleeve and insert stud of your choice than to remove the post as there is a spring loaded pin designed to keep the post in place. It appears easy enough to slide something in the sleeve to keep the pin depressed to remove the post but not having done so I can't tell how easy it would be to prevent loss of the spring and pin once the post is removed nor how easy it would be to get the post back in the sleeve later.

The post is designed for a limited amount of travel. Each end is tapered then has a lip before the 3/8 stud on the top or the 1/4-20 socket on the bottom is reached. That spring-loaded pin mentioned above applies enough pressure to the side of the shaft and follows the taper to prevent the post from sliding past the lip.

It sounds like the 649 is not the solution for this situation.

One possible solution, though it will involve several thread adapters or the correct stud, is to get a Panavise 851 adjusting knuckle (http://www.panavise.com/index.html?pageID=1&page=full&--eqskudatarq=110). Screw it into a super clamp or the post base on the 649 and then adjust to whatever angle you want. One of these is always in my bag. If you go the Panavise 851 route I suggest taking it to a hardware store and replacing the Allen head setscrew with a thumscrew as the Allen wrench is very easy to lose.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: scb on December 20, 2011, 09:26:49 AM
The Manfrotto double articulated arm (http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-396B-Section-Articulated-Bracket/dp/B000MWWXJ2) is a real lifesaver for me in a local venue here where the only taping spots of any kind are on either side of the board, and therefore off-center.

run a split - one on each side of the board :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on December 20, 2011, 10:05:56 PM
One possible solution, though it will involve several thread adapters or the correct stud, is to get a Panavise 851 adjusting knuckle (http://www.panavise.com/index.html?pageID=1&page=full&--eqskudatarq=110). Screw it into a super clamp or the post base on the 649 and then adjust to whatever angle you want. One of these is always in my bag. If you go the Panavise 851 route I suggest taking it to a hardware store and replacing the Allen head setscrew with a thumscrew as the Allen wrench is very easy to lose.

unfortunately no, the issue is with the clamp/vice end, not the exit strategy. I'm trying to clamp onto what is about a a 1/4" x 4" metal beam. I can get the super around it, but having a clamp grip designed for flat surfaces is really optimum since I can't get the entire beam inside the jaw (it would just be a pinch point).

but yeah, the 649 doesn't seem to cut it. I think I'll visit the local hardware store and see what they have for generic C clamps since it looks like I'll be clamping off of my clamp in a strange xzibit type way (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xzibit#Internet_meme).
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on December 20, 2011, 10:58:23 PM
On my iPod touch but google Mathellini clamps from Mathews flat clamps with baby pin. Largest can open 6 inches
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on December 20, 2011, 11:04:41 PM
On my iPod touch but google Mathellini clamps from Mathews flat clamps with baby pin. Largest can open 6 inches

getting warmer (since the stud would be an improvement for clamping), but still have to use the super on that. I need a flat clamp (which the mathews is) that can receive a stud, not send one (as in this example (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33198-REG/Matthews_429594_C_Clamp_Baby.html)).
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on December 20, 2011, 11:15:42 PM
Is the 396ab bar fixed male on both ends? I was picturing using it like my 099b pole which is male/ female
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on December 20, 2011, 11:31:44 PM
Page/Flipp,

Please post pics when you get this straightened out.

I'm a visual-learner. The text dialog is doing nothing for me even though I've read it numerous times...

I used to do some rigging/lighting and a visual cue might jar something loose...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on December 20, 2011, 11:53:06 PM
Is the 396ab bar fixed male on both ends? I was picturing using it like my 099b pole which is male/ female

yes, it's male 5/8" stud on both ends, but one end has a hex lock on it for superclamp rotation locking (in addition to the superclamp's exit lock screw).

You can use it without the hex lock, I've done it before, but you have to find something that will accept and screw lock against a standard stud.

Page/Flipp,

Please post pics when you get this straightened out.

Sure, I get the last component if I was going to use the superclamp this week and I'll post pics probably thursday or Friday. The arm is in the car at the moment otherwise I would now.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jbell on February 09, 2012, 03:09:31 PM
I recently got a Rowi 76 clamp and need a thread adapter so I can use it with my shure donut.  Can any point me in the right directions for what is commonly used.  TIA
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on February 09, 2012, 03:18:11 PM
I recently got a Rowi 76 clamp and need a thread adapter so I can use it with my shure donut.  Can any point me in the right directions for what is commonly used.  TIA

This bad boy should do ya: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/286146-REG/AKG_KM216_3_8_Male_to_5_8.html 

Interesting, my donut is 5/8" threaded. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jbell on February 09, 2012, 03:24:32 PM
I need a 5/8 male like one a windtech c clamp so doesn't look like that will work. 

I recently got a Rowi 76 clamp and need a thread adapter so I can use it with my shure donut.  Can any point me in the right directions for what is commonly used.  TIA

This bad boy should do ya: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/286146-REG/AKG_KM216_3_8_Male_to_5_8.html 

Interesting, my donut is 5/8" threaded.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 09, 2012, 03:48:51 PM
I recently got a Rowi 76 clamp and need a thread adapter so I can use it with my shure donut.  Can any point me in the right directions for what is commonly used.  TIA

This bad boy should do ya: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/286146-REG/AKG_KM216_3_8_Male_to_5_8.html 

Interesting, my donut is 5/8" threaded.

I need a 5/8 male like one a windtech c clamp so doesn't look like that will work. 


So, if your clamp is 5/8th (the same as the windtech), and the Donut is 5/8ths... Is it a different thread count? What's the stiff?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: stevetoney on February 09, 2012, 03:58:07 PM
I recently got a Rowi 76 clamp and need a thread adapter so I can use it with my shure donut.  Can any point me in the right directions for what is commonly used.  TIA

This bad boy should do ya: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/286146-REG/AKG_KM216_3_8_Male_to_5_8.html 

Interesting, my donut is 5/8" threaded.

I need a 5/8 male like one a windtech c clamp so doesn't look like that will work. 


So, if your clamp is 5/8th (the same as the windtech), and the Donut is 5/8ths... Is it a different thread count? What's the stiff?

No those Rowi's have either a 3/8 or a 1/4 on them.  So you need either one of these.  I'm pretty sure it's 1/4 though.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/284333-REG/Manfrotto_MIBA_Female_3_8_to_5_8.html

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/805205-REG/WindTech_M_7_M_7_Threaded_Adapter.html

Check aournd the B&H site...I bought another version  of these for $2 not too long ago, but it looks like those are backordered now.

HINT:  If you order these, get 3 or 4 extra's of the 3/8 > 5/8 and 1 or 2 of the 1/4 to 5/8.  You'll find them handy in the future, I promise.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on February 09, 2012, 03:58:19 PM
I think the 76 uses either a 1/4" or 3/8" thread, therefor the need for an adapter.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 09, 2012, 04:10:14 PM
ah, gotcha, the windtech remark threw me for a loop.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jbell on February 09, 2012, 04:12:14 PM
I got it and it's a 1/4 female>5/8 male!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: stevetoney on February 09, 2012, 04:17:07 PM
I got it and it's a 5/8 male>3/8 female!

Technically, as an engineer, that's an impossible adapter Jon unless you're that artist...what's his name...Escher?  LOL.  But we know what you meant.  ;)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jbell on February 09, 2012, 04:30:01 PM
As a science teacher I should have caught that!!  Fixed it  :)

I got it and it's a 5/8 male>3/8 female!

Technically, as an engineer, that's an impossible adapter Jon unless you're that artist...what's his name...Escher?  LOL.  But we know what you meant.  ;)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: fozzy on February 09, 2012, 05:15:52 PM
Does anyone else find the Rowi 76 hard to get snug when clamping to a round surface.  Was thinking of adding a notch on mine. 

edit:  oh and some clamp pr0n for you guys


La zona Rosa - perfect steel pillar DFC @ FOH
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v75/fozzy-/mics-LZR.jpg)

Old one from Antone's  THis one involves 2 superclamps (one not pictured), 8" extension, some random K&M bar, vert bar and regular k&m clamp.  I just use my rowi 103 now. 
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v75/fozzy-/IMG_0244.jpg)

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: LikeASong on February 14, 2012, 01:13:40 PM
--edited--
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jazzgtrl4 on February 14, 2012, 02:25:12 PM
I like this little Rowi clamp, here are my ak40's clamped at Pappy & Harriets in Pioneer town CA for Chris Robinson
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: H₂O on February 14, 2012, 08:49:24 PM
http://books.google.com/books?id=1SkDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA107&lpg=PA107&dq=rowi+clamp+images&source=bl&ots=XXkWYhDUgC&sig=8vv7pwmYsltfe3Arv_NmeAegARU&hl=en&sa=X&ei=hQ07T7vTKIjl0QGf9riSCw&ved=0CGgQ6AEwCA

Here are pics of the Rowi 103 (Called the Rowi Senior Clamp-Pod - back then), 76, and UKV from Popular Mechanics Magazine in 1966.


Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: H₂O on February 14, 2012, 08:56:47 PM
http://books.google.com/books?id=YdQDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA142&lpg=PA142&dq=rowi+clamp+images&source=bl&ots=Uv5gmN4mLQ&sig=D58hDg5kLNbBposshtJc7x2m8wg&hl=en&sa=X&ei=GBA7T7i8D-f40gGC4K2bCw&ved=0CFkQ6AEwCTgo

PM from 1974 - more clamps with a UKV kit on the second page
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on February 15, 2012, 01:45:23 PM
Here is what I hope is a helpful pic of running 4 mics on the Manfrotto Double Articlated arm.  To get the two pairs on the end, I just used two Manfrotto rapid adapters, with one pointing up, and one pointing down.

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on February 15, 2012, 11:34:16 PM
Which Schoeps caps, and what type of Neumann are those ???
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 16, 2012, 01:16:13 AM
Page/Flipp,

Please post pics when you get this straightened out.

I'm a visual-learner. The text dialog is doing nothing for me even though I've read it numerous times...

I used to do some rigging/lighting and a visual cue might jar something loose...



finally got around to taking pictures earlier this week:

adjustable arm (396-AB) with heavy duty bendable/flex arm (237HD)

superclamp > 396-ab > rapid adaptor > 237HD > rapid adaptor > rycote shockmount.
(http://i.imgur.com/R2RPp.jpg)

Arm at a slow curve and the adjustable bendy arm upright:
(http://i.imgur.com/wSSMjl.jpg)

Closeup of the bendy arm with the shockmount and mic caps.
(http://i.imgur.com/xsmQ7l.jpg)


the bendy arm and the adjustable arm horizontal sort of wigged me out so I didn't extend the 396 all the way, and I wouldn't do this at a show (maybe with a lighter bendable arm, but not the heavy duty one). Something about the adjustable arm seems fragile to me whenever I use it, but it seems to hold enough weight (at least without heavy bass vibration) to load the heavy duty bendable arm and a shockmount so.... yeah....  :-\

Felt much better about the upright version, so I think it's truly a load issue. I debated trying to go 237 > 396 but I had other stuff to do and walked away at that point. I may have to do some more research on >6' extensions and see what I can pull off.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on February 16, 2012, 02:36:13 AM
Nice setup bro :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on February 16, 2012, 02:00:57 PM
Which Schoeps caps, and what type of Neumann are those ???

MK22 (Schoeps 22cm ORTF-ish bar)>KCY>LB (trans)>OCM R-44
KM150>USBPre2>OCM R-44
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on February 16, 2012, 04:18:47 PM
That Manfrotto Double Articulated arm is a pretty sweet piece of hardware.  First time I came across one was at B&H's brick and mortar store and I must've played with that thing for a good 15 minutes, lol.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 16, 2012, 04:35:37 PM
That Manfrotto Double Articulated arm is a pretty sweet piece of hardware.  First time I came across one was at B&H's brick and mortar store and I must've played with that thing for a good 15 minutes, lol.

it wicked is! That and my nano > reversable stud > rapid adaptor combo get the most use of any accessory I have, sometimes I even use them together if i'm really trying to get distance. Only beef is I wish it had standard screw fixtures instead of that quicklock mechanism.

but yeah, they are nice.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on February 16, 2012, 08:27:01 PM
Which Schoeps caps, and what type of Neumann are those ???

MK22 (Schoeps 22cm ORTF-ish bar)>KCY>LB (trans)>OCM R-44
KM150>USBPre2>OCM R-44

Allsum ;D
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on February 16, 2012, 10:07:44 PM
Thanks for the pics, Page.

I'm gonna have to pick up one of those articulated arms now, methinks.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on February 16, 2012, 10:31:28 PM
Yeah me too! What was the damage on that one, Page?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on February 16, 2012, 11:09:24 PM
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=396-AB&N=0&InitialSearch=yes

Forgive me, but the narcissistic in me is beginning to believe this thread might be an all-time ts.com classic. Keep up the good work, gents. I am learning so much... Keep them posts and photos coming!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 17, 2012, 12:15:15 AM
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=396-AB&N=0&InitialSearch=yes

The 396-AB3 is what I have in the pictures, it can contain the most weight of all of them.

They say they can support 11lbs load, but I wouldn't try it, or if I did, I'd figure out the whole force/load calc to ensure I had some extra leeway before I left home. I've put an LSD2-clone on it before a couple of times with success, but having the 237HD worried me the most cause of how it was outstretched with weight.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on February 17, 2012, 09:37:38 AM
The articulated arm can definitely take a heavy load - and you pay for it.

I sometimes run mine laterally with fullsize Schoeps on it, and it even can hold that way, which is pretty incredible considering the stress on the superclamp's screw when you do that.  Probably would not try that with my 414s or a bigger LD mic...

Run outward as in my photo above, though, bring on the LDs!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on February 17, 2012, 01:35:24 PM
Running laterally, I'd probably be more concerned about the stress on the articulated arm's stud rather than the super clamp and the arm itself; the brunt of all that weight is focused on the one bit of metal.  Rigging it up with a few safety cables is always good for some extra insurance.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 17, 2012, 01:37:47 PM
Running laterally, I'd probably be more concerned about the stress on the articulated arm's stud rather than the super clamp and the arm itself; the brunt of all that weight is focused on the one bit of metal.  Rigging it up with a few safety cables is always good for some extra insurance.

and since it's so long, I end up using 2 cables.

I worry most about the joints than the stud connection. The superclamp holds something like 25lbs of load, so I wire it up with a cable but I dont worry about it very much.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: aaronji on February 17, 2012, 02:55:39 PM
Thanks for the pictures acidjack and page!  I have been using a Manfrotto 122b with a SuperClamp; it works well, but I have been looking for something that can go down a bit.  I was thinking about the 143N or 244N, but they seemed a little light for the task...Looking at your photos makes it pretty clear that's what I need...

A little hard to find one, in Europe, for some reason, but I did find a German supplier.  While looking, I saw the predecessors (196 2 and 3 arm) are widely available.  Anybody have any experience with those?  The 396 looks more sturdy, but maybe it's overkill?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on February 17, 2012, 07:11:54 PM
Thanks for the pictures acidjack and page!  I have been using a Manfrotto 122b with a SuperClamp; it works well, but I have been looking for something that can go down a bit.  I was thinking about the 143N or 244N, but they seemed a little light for the task...Looking at your photos makes it pretty clear that's what I need...

A little hard to find one, in Europe, for some reason, but I did find a German supplier.  While looking, I saw the predecessors (196 2 and 3 arm) are widely available.  Anybody have any experience with those?  The 396 looks more sturdy, but maybe it's overkill?

I also own the 196 - it is more versatile in terms of directions it can move in.  It can easily hold, say, a pair of fullsize SDCs. It's shorter and of course cannot do what I do in terms of extending all the way laterally with fullsize mics, but it can do a whole lot.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 17, 2012, 11:35:08 PM
The 396 looks more sturdy, but maybe it's overkill?


never
  :P

joking aside, what you trade in size or weight, you gain in load bearing peace of mind that you stuff won't fall (and ruin clamping at that venue or damage gear).

Now that I run active-style stuff, I've debated picking up a 196 for the flexibility but haven't needed to.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on February 18, 2012, 12:26:38 PM

never
  :P

joking aside, what you trade in size or weight, you gain in load bearing peace of mind that you stuff won't fall (and ruin clamping at that venue or damage gear).

This. 

Roughly a year or so ago, some idiot accidentally dropped a microphone off the balcony at Bowery Ballroom (I think it was physically dropped rather than having a piece of hardware fail, IIRC) which could have easily brought taping/clamping at that fine venue to a screeching halt.  Thankfully, the management there is pretty level-headed and realized that not all tapers have butterfingers.  Nonetheless, we were under scrutiny for a while after that every time we set up.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: aaronji on February 18, 2012, 03:56:04 PM
Thanks again, page and acidjack (and Fried Chicken Boy).  My mics, DPAs with the compact bodies, are small and light, but my bar is quite heavy.  And I will probably use the arm together with the 122b sometimes...Long story short: I am going to take your advice and get the 396 (even if it's a bit of a hassle).  I can always get a 196 later if I feel the need.

Roughly a year or so ago, some idiot accidentally dropped a microphone off the balcony at Bowery Ballroom (I think it was physically dropped rather than having a piece of hardware fail, IIRC) which could have easily brought taping/clamping at that fine venue to a screeching halt.  Thankfully, the management there is pretty level-headed and realized that not all tapers have butterfingers.  Nonetheless, we were under scrutiny for a while after that every time we set up.

I used to see a ton of shows at that place when I lived in Manhattan.  Indeed a fine venue.  Actually, my last show before I moved to the Netherlands (I think it was the day before) was The Melvins at the Bowery...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 20, 2012, 10:16:19 AM
I thought I'd share a reply I sent to a PM I got over the weekend:

For safety cables, look for one that will hold at least twice the load your exerting, I shoot for around 3 times as much. When I was doing a lot of rock climbing, I would look at specs for climbing ropes and they quoted these outrageous max force rates, but it's because your not only fighting your weight on the rope, but also gravity and (as a result) velocity. If your stuff falls and only falls an inch, then it's a little over your stuff's weight, but if it's going to call a distance of 2 feet or so before it eats all of the slack in the line, then the initial impact where it tightens up will exhert more force than the weight of the stuff. It would be a hell of a bummer for the clamp/arm/mics/etc falls, the safety cable catches it, and then fails and falls again.

extra points if you can find a cable that is looped on both ends instead of just one with the biner fixed on the other. That way in a pinch you can pick up a $8 locking carabiner for extra protection.

So casually scanning over the B&H catalog, I saw the following:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/840889-REG/Kupo_KG061112_41_105_cm_Long.html

holds a lot of weight, is fairly long (which is nice for the articulating arms), isn't all that expensive, and has a locking biner on it. I don't personally own one, but I'm tempted to pick one up just cause.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on February 20, 2012, 11:10:49 PM
Agreed with everything page has to say regarding safety cables.  The only thing I'd add is, if they still make them, you might want to see if you can find cables with a plastic/vinyl/rubber coating like what you find on tool handles rather than the exposed braided steel.  Not that it's guaranteed to happen, but they're less likely to mar up the surface of whatever you have to attach them to.  I picked up a few of the coated ones at B&H years ago but couldn't find them now when I took a quick look online.

I used to see a ton of shows at that place when I lived in Manhattan.  Indeed a fine venue.  Actually, my last show before I moved to the Netherlands (I think it was the day before) was The Melvins at the Bowery...

Nice!!  acidjack and I have taped them a few times and catching them again at Webster Hall in April.  Looking forward to feeling my teeth rattling in my head again. ;D
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on February 20, 2012, 11:13:28 PM
Agreed with everything page has to say regarding safety cables.  The only thing I'd add is, if they still make them, you might want to see if you can find cables with a plastic/vinyl/rubber coating like what you find on tool handles rather than the exposed braided steel.  Not that it's guaranteed to happen, but they're less likely to mar up the surface of whatever you have to attach them to.  I picked up a few of the coated ones at B&H years ago but couldn't find them now when I took a quick look online.

I used to see a ton of shows at that place when I lived in Manhattan.  Indeed a fine venue.  Actually, my last show before I moved to the Netherlands (I think it was the day before) was The Melvins at the Bowery...

Nice!!  acidjack and I have taped them a few times and catching them again at Webster Hall in April.  Looking forward to feeling my teeth rattling in my head again. ;D

Glad to see some discussion of safety cables. Anyone have any pics they can post of the cables in action?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 21, 2012, 12:20:02 AM
Anyone have any pics they can post of the cables in action?

pulled two cellphone pics from my email:

396 arm and 2 cables. I constructed the pic specifically so someone could see how I hook them.
(http://i.imgur.com/lyaS4.jpg)


Using the cable with a superclamp. This one is a bit tougher. It's working on the theory that your clamp won't come appart so much as just let go. But are unlikely, but yeah. I've found that finding a way of winding the cable through both parts is *really* difficult, so if someone's got a better system, I'd like to see it.
(http://i.imgur.com/KHClS.jpg)

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: bryonsos on February 21, 2012, 12:24:39 AM
^^ Is that cat stock or Busman modded?  ;D
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 21, 2012, 12:31:52 AM
^^ Is that cat stock or Busman modded?  ;D

funny you should mention that, she talks just about constantly and sounds like almost no other cat I've heard... still uses lots of vocalizations that cats normally don't use with humans. Her sister uses some, but not to this degree. A Tabby Tortoiseshell ta boot.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: fleish on February 21, 2012, 12:40:55 AM
^^ Is that cat stock or Busman modded?  ;D

:lol: Good eyes. I didn't even notice it. Wonder what Busman would charge to warm mod an animal :yack:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 21, 2012, 12:46:33 AM
^^ Is that cat stock or Busman modded?  ;D

:lol: Good eyes. I didn't even notice it. Wonder what Busman would charge to warm mod an animal :yack:

if I'm going to do that, I'd probably consider getting it for both (http://imgur.com/HX4gL).
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: fleish on February 21, 2012, 02:04:58 AM
^^ Is that cat stock or Busman modded?  ;D

:lol: Good eyes. I didn't even notice it. Wonder what Busman would charge to warm mod an animal :yack:

if I'm going to do that, I'd probably consider getting it for both (http://imgur.com/HX4gL).

With 8 paws I'd go with a hybrid mod. 1 set warm, 1 set transparent ;)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: bryonsos on February 21, 2012, 08:47:24 AM

funny you should mention that, she talks just about constantly and sounds like almost no other cat I've heard... still uses lots of vocalizations that cats normally don't use with humans. Her sister uses some, but not to this degree. A Tabby Tortoiseshell ta boot.

Sounds like she has loads of personality. My pup does too, but she's quiet, never barks, just the occasional squeak or yip.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: MIQ on February 23, 2012, 12:26:18 AM

That and my nano > reversable stud > rapid adaptor combo get the most use of any accessory I have...

Sounds interesting.  What uses have you come up with for that combo?

-MIQ
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 23, 2012, 12:29:32 AM

That and my nano > reversable stud > rapid adaptor combo get the most use of any accessory I have...

Sounds interesting.  What uses have you come up with for that combo?

-MIQ

it's my standard clamping mechanism. I don't use a windtech.

I'll take a picture of it later. Since the rapid adaptor can rotate, it gives me a little more freedom in what angle I can achieve, especially since my shockmount can also rotate (separate from the screw).
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: MIQ on February 23, 2012, 12:50:29 AM
Sounds compact and very adjustable.  I can imagine how the ability to rotate would make it more versatile than the windtech.  Looking forward to seeing pics.

-MIQ
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 27, 2012, 01:01:20 AM
Sounds compact and very adjustable.  I can imagine how the ability to rotate would make it more versatile than the windtech.  Looking forward to seeing pics.

-MIQ


nano > reversible stud

(http://i.imgur.com/lzlRf.jpg)



nano > reversible stud > rapid adaptor

(http://i.imgur.com/qB8bo.jpg)



nano > reversible stud > rapid adaptor > rycote inv-6 shockmount

(http://i.imgur.com/t0YbW.jpg)


Note, the rapid adaptor terminates in a 3/8th-16 screw if you want a size reference for the entire package. (assuming you don't have a rapid adaptor handy to compare). The shockmount is oriented in such a way that the weight of the kwonbar/mics/cables/etc will cause it to torque into the threads instead of unscrewing itself (very important).  ;) Between the rapid adaptor, which allows me to go out (as shown), up, and down, I can rotate the adaptor in any of the three configurations (and level up or rotate the shockmount) if the pole I'm clamping to is at an angle instead of straight across or straight up. Last, I can rotate the shockmount itself around almost 180 degrees so if I need to clamp and run off the side (say, slightly off center due to environment restrictions on where to put the stand), I can try and correct for some of that. Really a versatile setup in that regard. Your point of failure would likely be either be the friction of the rapid adaptor's press hold on the stud or the nano clamp's max weight (which isn't much, but easily enough for an active/remote capsule setup after accounting for load). I've never had problems with this setup though.

The only way I know of to get a smaller setup would be to buy a nano, a small bit of 3/8th threaded rod, 3/8th > 5/8th adaptor, and a shure donut screw. Then get everything just about screwed in and apply super glue or loctite and let it settle in the desired position. That would be even more low-profile clamping setup than anything else I could think of but at that point you're almost/probably just stealthing and wouldn't be clamping anyway.  :-\

Speaking of, I almost took the last picture with a shure donut (which is smaller than my inv-6) but I didn't want to hunt for it.  :P
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on February 27, 2012, 01:08:12 AM
Nice setup Page!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: macdaddy on February 27, 2012, 01:33:10 AM
nice, page.

i use the same setup with the nanoclamp, but the stud i use is smaller. and then i use the manfrotto rapid adapter.

i use it with the extension arms, esp. the longer one with the octogon end, or when i need to clamp my mic mount to someone else's stand.

the nanoclamp kicks a$$, imo.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: MIQ on February 27, 2012, 01:55:30 AM
Thanks Page!  That's pretty sweet.  Gotta put a nano on my wish list now :)

-MIQ
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on February 27, 2012, 03:04:54 AM
Thanks Page!  That's pretty sweet.  Gotta put a nano on my wish list now :)

-MIQ

Me too :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 27, 2012, 12:47:33 PM
nice, page.

i use the same setup with the nanoclamp, but the stud i use is smaller. and then i use the manfrotto rapid adapter.

part number/link? The reversible one was the shortest I could find at the time, so I'm definitely interested in options.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: flipp on February 27, 2012, 01:44:49 PM
looks like these three should work, with the latter having an additional piece if you ever needed a longer stud than the first two

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/840839-REG/Kupo_KG000812_Hex_Stud_3_8_16_M.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546376-REG/Manfrotto_037_037_Reversible_Short_Stud.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/438701-REG/Smith_Victor_661205_Brass_Adapter_1_4.html

< Upon further viewing the Smith-Victor may be the only one that will work with the Rapid Adapter since it has a circular shoulder and the first two have a hexagonal shoulder. Note: I don't have a Rapid Adapter so don't know if it will mount on a fitting with a hexagonal shoulder. >
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on February 27, 2012, 02:27:04 PM
looks like these three should work, with the latter having an additional piece if you ever needed a longer stud than the first two

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/840839-REG/Kupo_KG000812_Hex_Stud_3_8_16_M.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546376-REG/Manfrotto_037_037_Reversible_Short_Stud.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/438701-REG/Smith_Victor_661205_Brass_Adapter_1_4.html

< Upon further viewing the Smith-Victor may be the only one that will work with the Rapid Adapter since it has a circular shoulder and the first two have a hexagonal shoulder. Note: I don't have a Rapid Adapter so don't know if it will mount on a fitting with a hexagonal shoulder. >

Nope, the rapid adaptor won't wont fix on a hex head which was my problem because I have the manfrotto 037 and was stymied.

However, that Smith/Victor you linked to would do it. That good sir, is allsum. +T
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: newscane on July 12, 2012, 11:25:22 PM
I figure this is a good spot for this question.  Just got a Manfrotto 099b extension, to go along with my Manfrotto 004BAC.  Looking for a way to carry the two together, without necessarily getting a case.  I tried using two of the velcro cable ties, and those gave way pretty quickly.  Any suggestions?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on July 12, 2012, 11:42:48 PM
I figure this is a good spot for this question.  Just got a Manfrotto 099b extension, to go along with my Manfrotto 004BAC.  Looking for a way to carry the two together, without necessarily getting a case.  I tried using two of the velcro cable ties, and those gave way pretty quickly.  Any suggestions?

out of curiosity, where would you need more than the 13' of the 004?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian E. on July 12, 2012, 11:51:00 PM
I can think of some situations, like taping a stack at a DMB show.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on July 13, 2012, 12:25:33 AM
I can think of some situations, like taping a stack at a DMB show.

true, fair enough. I was honestly at a loss since I've never done it.

the easiest way I can think of to keep the two together would be to use a reversable superclamp setup with a short/micro stud. Put one clamp in the middle of the 004 and the other in the middle of the 099b and then join the two clamps together with the stud (a 061 Joining Stud (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546379-REG/Manfrotto_061_061_Joining_Stud_for.html)).

Sort of like this, but the 061 stud will create a parellel holder instead of a 90 degree angle.

(http://harrysproshop.com/Tripods/superclamps/038.jpg)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: newscane on July 13, 2012, 12:38:32 AM
I can think of some situations, like taping a stack at a DMB show.
Precisely.  I also don't get the full 13' of the 004, as the legs are kept together because of the way I secure the stand to the seats.  I'd say the top is more like 10-11'.

I don't have any superclamps (yet... nearly bought one when I ordered the extension).  Just tried rigging something in a similar way with a windtech and another clamp (the L-shaped kind... it's been mentioned here before)... it sort of works, but awkwardly.

I may see if I can make my own velcro straps, or daisy-chain them..
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian E. on July 13, 2012, 12:50:03 AM
ah, dmbexchange.  I used to have about 900 shows........  :)  At some point I realized I wasn't listening, and they took up more space in spindles than it was worth.  Of course now everyone just keeps them on hard drives.  Now I only have the ones I've been to, which is still 47.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: newscane on July 13, 2012, 08:55:26 PM
ah, dmbexchange.  I used to have about 900 shows........  :)  At some point I realized I wasn't listening, and they took up more space in spindles than it was worth.  Of course now everyone just keeps them on hard drives.  Now I only have the ones I've been to, which is still 47.
I haven't updated my dmbexchange list in a while.  I have a spreadsheet on my computer that I was pretty good about updating, until 2009 or so (maybe 2008?).  I also indicated what shows I'd burned to CD (had boatloads in cases, on shelves) and which ones I'd burned as FLAC/SHN to DVD.  Now I just have them on drives, spread out across 3 of them or so... it's a mess.  It's a good thing we're through the majority of the shows for this tour, otherwise I'd be in trouble (in need of another drive).
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian E. on July 14, 2012, 01:42:08 PM
haha I hear ya.  If I would have had the storage space back in 2002, I would still have them all on drive.  As it was, I ended up trading all my 25 spindles of 100 discs to all sorts of traders, for blanks.  Then I got rid of the blanks in other ways and bought my first iPod ;)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Crumbo on July 14, 2012, 06:41:49 PM
I figure this is a good spot for this question.  Just got a Manfrotto 099b extension, to go along with my Manfrotto 004BAC.  Looking for a way to carry the two together, without necessarily getting a case.  I tried using two of the velcro cable ties, and those gave way pretty quickly.  Any suggestions?

I carry my mic stand in one of those tailgating chair bags and it works great
if you just want to carry the 2 stands together try a bungi cord or 2 :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: newscane on July 14, 2012, 07:06:51 PM
I figure this is a good spot for this question.  Just got a Manfrotto 099b extension, to go along with my Manfrotto 004BAC.  Looking for a way to carry the two together, without necessarily getting a case.  I tried using two of the velcro cable ties, and those gave way pretty quickly.  Any suggestions?

I carry my mic stand in one of those tailgating chair bags and it works great
if you just want to carry the 2 stands together try a bungi cord or 2 :)
I bought a thing of 12' of Velcro for $10... cut 3 strips of it, and tied the two together with that.  Looks like it should hold pretty well!  Takes a little work to wrap it around, but not much harder than a bungi would be...

The only tailgating chair bag I have currently has a chair in it :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on July 15, 2012, 11:56:59 PM
Been meaning to post this for a while... When you clamp to a balcony you should be running safety lanyards to ensure the safety of others and to protect our privileges to continue to clamp in the best spot. Here's some ideas on how to create some convenient tie-off spots on your clamp system:

super clamp (and knock-offs) and bogen rapid-adapter both accept 1/4"-20 thread eye-hooks readily available from Home Depot...

https://picasaweb.google.com/114775014104918758740/July15201202

Chime in if you have problems accessing the photos. I'll do what I can...

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian E. on July 16, 2012, 11:16:35 AM
I don't run safety lines only because I have CA14's and a bendy T bar which weigh nothing.  the lines would give out before my superclamp would.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on July 16, 2012, 01:27:50 PM
I don't run safety lines only because I have CA14's and a bendy T bar which weigh nothing.  the lines would give out before my superclamp would.

then I'd say you don't have very good lines. I trust my superclamp, but I don't necessarily trust the environmental effects (children running around, people tripping and hitting it, etc). Lots of things can cause a clamp to give without it failing per se.

Been meaning to post this for a while... When you clamp to a balcony you should be running safety lanyards to ensure the safety of others and to protect our privileges to continue to clamp in the best spot. Here's some ideas on how to create some convenient tie-off spots on your clamp system:

That's awesome. I especially love the rapid adaptor one.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gutbucket on July 16, 2012, 01:51:03 PM
Those tiny mics would be like graceful falling leaves in comparison to a superclamp making a vertical bee-line to someone's head!  It's that massive clamp which would benefit from the tether-insurance if something unforseen were to shove it loose.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: bryonsos on July 25, 2012, 10:58:00 AM
I complained earlier in this thread about the build quality of the Matthews extension pole:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33185-REG/Matthews_429499_Telescopic_Baby_Stand_Extension.html

I went to my local photo store hoping to replace it, and found a really nice 1/2 pole extension from Lowell:

http://www.lowel.com/stands_poles.html

The build quality is outstanding, the gauge of the aluminum is really thick and sturdy, and it just feels good. The sockets are very snug, so there's no wiggle room at all even before you tighten the nut. We had this pole mounted on a Matthellini clamped to a drink rail on Saturday with 2 sets of LDs and 1 SD pair, and it was solid as a rock. I like it so much, I'm going to get a full one as well. It should be a nice alternative to the 099B.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: mattmiller on July 25, 2012, 12:51:41 PM
I went to my local photo store hoping to replace it, and found a really nice 1/2 pole extension from Lowell:

http://www.lowel.com/stands_poles.html

That looks like a good alternative to the Matthews for extending out (or down) from a balcony.  I've never trusted my Matthews for that.  But for running vertically clamped to a table or armrest, the Matthews has worked great for me, and it's 18" longer than the Lowel pole.  I usually come pretty close to maxing out the 54" of the Matthews, and it collapses down to the same size of the Lowel (18") for easy transport in my bag.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on July 25, 2012, 02:57:24 PM
I went to my local photo store hoping to replace it, and found a really nice 1/2 pole extension from Lowell:

http://www.lowel.com/stands_poles.html

The build quality is outstanding, the gauge of the aluminum is really thick and sturdy, and it just feels good. The sockets are very snug, so there's no wiggle room at all even before you tighten the nut. We had this pole mounted on a Matthellini clamped to a drink rail on Saturday with 2 sets of LDs and 1 SD pair, and it was solid as a rock. I like it so much, I'm going to get a full one as well. It should be a nice alternative to the 099B.

Very nice.  Except for having a socket as opposed to a stud on the bottom, looks to have similar specs to the Manfrotto 122B (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/5359-REG/Manfrotto_122B_122B_Adjustable_Pole_for.html).  I think having either one of those plus the 099B would have you covered for just about anything.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: macdaddy on December 17, 2012, 12:12:26 PM
does anyone have a link to purchase the extend-ilinni..? I can't seem to find it, and would like to order one. thx, in advance...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: DigiGal on December 17, 2012, 12:22:17 PM
does anyone have a link to purchase the extend-ilinni..? I can't seem to find it, and would like to order one. thx, in advance...

I put a link for one in the TSKB clamp thread with demo photos.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=2456.msg1993445#msg1993445
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: macdaddy on December 17, 2012, 03:21:31 PM
does anyone have a link to purchase the extend-ilinni..? I can't seem to find it, and would like to order one. thx, in advance...

I put a link for one in the TSKB clamp thread with demo photos.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=2456.msg1993445#msg1993445
ordered. I couldn't remember where that thread was. Thx for the assist.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: trustthex on March 11, 2013, 02:08:38 AM
Just ordered one of these as a throw-in on an amazon order...  $23, ain't bad either.

Pedco UltraClamp Assembly (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ABB4HC/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i02?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/711MXyelSpL._SL1500_.jpg)

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: trustthex on March 11, 2013, 02:09:23 AM
damn that's big.  Have all the adapters I need ordered as well.   ;D
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: cashandkerouac on March 11, 2013, 09:47:47 AM
great clamp, adjusts very easy.  it's great for light loads, but the ball joint at the head will not hold a lot of weight without slipping.  i tried using my Shure A27 stereo mic adapter with this clamp and it didn't work out too well.  something like an AKG KM235 is much more compatible.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: trustthex on March 11, 2013, 08:00:57 PM
I'm going to be running it w/ an SP-GNA mount & AT853s... just got it in the mail today, will test and take photos soon.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on March 12, 2013, 11:49:42 AM
I'm going to be running it w/ an SP-GNA mount & AT853s... just got it in the mail today, will test and take photos soon.

You'll be fine. 

I have a couple ultraclamps. I agree that it's not the best for super heavy loads, but it can hold a good bit of weight.  I've run a pair of AKG 414s on one of mine, and also used two of them to do the 414s Blumlein. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: page on March 12, 2013, 04:28:59 PM
great clamp, adjusts very easy.  it's great for light loads, but the ball joint at the head will not hold a lot of weight without slipping.  i tried using my Shure A27 stereo mic adapter with this clamp and it didn't work out too well.  something like an AKG KM235 is much more compatible.

if there is ever any risk, folks might consider using a safety cable.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian Skalinder on March 12, 2013, 08:35:00 PM
it's great for light loads, but the ball joint at the head will not hold a lot of weight without slipping.

I agree, great for light loads.  I never had any issues with the ball joint under heavier weight, but I did have the clamp portion that attaches to my stand would slip over time (not to the point of falling off, fortunately) when running with a pair of LD mics.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: acidjack on March 13, 2013, 08:00:55 AM
it's great for light loads, but the ball joint at the head will not hold a lot of weight without slipping.

I agree, great for light loads.  I never had any issues with the ball joint under heavier weight, but I did have the clamp portion that attaches to my stand would slip over time (not to the point of falling off, fortunately) when running with a pair of LD mics.

Also true.  When I ran it with LDs on it, it was clamped to a flat, hard surface, vertically rather than horizontally.  It has more strength that way.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on March 13, 2013, 09:16:03 PM
Just ordered one of these as a throw-in on an amazon order...  $23, ain't bad either.

Pedco UltraClamp Assembly (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ABB4HC/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i02?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/711MXyelSpL._SL1500_.jpg)



I KLOVE my Pedco Ultraclamp. Its ALWAYS in one of my bags :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: macdaddy on March 28, 2013, 01:56:37 PM
does anyone have a link to purchase the extend-ilinni..? I can't seem to find it, and would like to order one. thx, in advance...

I put a link for one in the TSKB clamp thread with demo photos.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=2456.msg1993445#msg1993445
ordered. I couldn't remember where that thread was. Thx for the assist.
now I just need to figure out how to use it...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on December 09, 2013, 01:09:45 AM
Bump. Just added a link on original post pointing to a recent ts.com thread about the thread size/pitch of the knob on a genuine Windtech clamp.

I recently shattered the plastic knob that secures the 5/8"-27 stud during an FOB situation where I had the Windtech clamped to a stand, minus mics (thank, God). The stand smacked pavement and destroyed the round, plastic knob.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gutbucket on December 09, 2013, 02:12:10 PM
If I can remember to do so when I get home tonight, I'll bring one into work tomorrow and measure it for you.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on December 09, 2013, 03:04:22 PM
No need. http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=165687.0

But thank you.

It's a 6mm-1.0 metric thread...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gutbucket on December 09, 2013, 03:05:37 PM
Thanks for the heads up. Glad you got it figured out.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on December 16, 2013, 12:07:18 AM
Thanks for the heads up. Glad you got it figured out.

Got the eye-bolt in the mail and the thread fits just fine but the ID and OD of the eye is friggin' huge. Roughly the size of a silver dollar or Sacajawea dollar.

It'll do for now, but I'm thinking of tapping the clamp itself to 1/4-20 and using an eye-bolt of the same size which is a piece of cake to find in any Lowes/Home Depot. Upside of the 1/4-20 eye-bolt is that the OD is roughly the size of a U.S. nickel...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on January 09, 2014, 07:19:09 PM
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=150670.0 shows a manfrotto 649 plus 099b extension for clamping to the arm of a theater seat. 

What I'd like to do is find a way to clamp a camera monopod to the seat part of a pew (pews don't typically have arms).  Any suggestions for a clamp?

Is there a way to secure the base of the monopod to the floor besides gaffers tape?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on January 09, 2014, 11:23:26 PM
I use a manfrotto superclamp and a lowel full pole! Works great! Just clamp onto the flat part of the seat where your butt goes 8) And I always have a couple Rowi/Braun ballheads so I can get my mics perfectly centered on the pole since not all seats are at a 90* angle!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on January 10, 2014, 07:05:42 PM
Thanks.

So http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/32183-REG/Lowel_KP_Full_Pole_3_5.html

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546356-REG/Manfrotto_035RL_035RL_Super_Clamp_with.html

or ????

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/824360-REG/impact_cc_106r_super_clamp_with_ratchet.html

And these clamps open wide enough to clamp onto seats with larger, rounded edges?  Many times, there's some sort of trim piece on the seat that makes it thicker at the end.



Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian Skalinder on January 10, 2014, 08:12:52 PM
So http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/32183-REG/Lowel_KP_Full_Pole_3_5.html

Yep, or something similar.  There are other manufacturers, like Matthews and Manfrotto that may have different lengths and prices that suit your needs better.

Either one of the clamps you link should do the trick.  Whether or not they'll fit the pew seat-front will depend on the pew's construction and size.  The Superclamp and similar clamps can go pretty wide and I only very rarely run into a situation in which the jaws are too small.

A couple other pieces that may prove useful:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on January 10, 2014, 08:55:21 PM
I see. 

Has anyone used one of these magic arms?  This would seem to solve the problem of adjusting the angle of the pole due to the angle of the seat.  http://www.ebay.com/itm/BOGEN-Manfrotto-2929-Magic-Arm-Pro-Stand-244-With-Superclamp-/261368644348?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cdac902fc
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian Skalinder on January 10, 2014, 09:08:42 PM
Has anyone used one of these magic arms?

I haven't used one, but have seen them in use for camera gear.  One potential issue with the Magic Arm -- I often have to clamp mics and extensions in limited space, and the Magic Arm looks like in some configurations it may produce a much bigger spatial footprint.  Can't say for sure, though, as I haven't used one.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on January 11, 2014, 12:56:30 AM
I see. 

Has anyone used one of these magic arms?  This would seem to solve the problem of adjusting the angle of the pole due to the angle of the seat.  http://www.ebay.com/itm/BOGEN-Manfrotto-2929-Magic-Arm-Pro-Stand-244-With-Superclamp-/261368644348?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cdac902fc

You can find knockoffs for half that price on eBay. I'd get on of those. Or you could just use a $10 ball head like I suggested!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on January 11, 2014, 04:54:48 PM
The Lowel Pole would seem to have the advantage of being able to get above other people's heads if I'm not sitting on the front row.  It's curious to me why the the more complicated part, the superclamp, is $29 and the less complicated pole is something like $49.   ???

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on January 12, 2014, 03:19:47 AM
Photek no longer produces the ratchet handle Superclamp knock-off.

Found a Superclamp knock-off with a ratcheting handle by Impact. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=824360&Q=&is=REG&A=details

If you don't know the benefits of a ratcheting handle, you've not clamped enough...  ;D

But I'll explain, if prompted.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on October 09, 2014, 01:35:35 AM
Any ideas for clamping to large, round or square objects? I'm thinking Mathellini+Extendillini-sized objects? Pics would help.

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: JD on October 09, 2014, 10:04:23 AM
Any ideas for clamping to large, round or square objects? I'm thinking Mathellini+Extendillini-sized objects? Pics would help.

I had always wanted to machine a small block of aluminium, tapped for a mono-pole stud, that would mount via a one inch ratchet strap. It would be more than strong enough for what we do and it would be very versatile, just pull the strap around something ridged and crank her down.   Food for thought....
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on November 11, 2014, 11:56:22 AM
For those times where I can clamp to a railing, I was thinking of getting this:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33185-REG/Matthews_429499_Telescopic_Baby_Stand_Extension.html

and this:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/824360-REG/impact_cc_106r_super_clamp_with_ratchet.html

And sitting atop it will be:

http://avlex.com/products/hm-30-stand-mount/


Anything else needed to complete this setup?

Can you change the 'orientation' of the stud on the SuperClamp?

Any other recommendations?

Perhaps some actions shots?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on November 12, 2014, 05:35:04 PM
Manfrotto 3/8" Rapid Adapter, it can be used for a quick mount with a 90 degree option.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=546490&gclid=Cj0KEQiAp4yjBRCE_enjmpug944BEiQATCpLvQzyoOlUzNHAIhwjG4CW2d6squjtKAFO7un67rwzFUAaAh2P8P8HAQ&Q=&is=REG&A=details
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on November 12, 2014, 09:27:45 PM
Is it possible to drill and tap the front part of the superclamp?  I saw a photo of a battery pack attached to the side of a superclamp, but I'd like to mount a battery pack on the front and mount a Tascam 60d to the side.  If I can drill and tap the front, I think I can fabricate something to hold the battery. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on November 12, 2014, 09:37:52 PM
I can see several spots on my Superclamp that could be drilled and tapped.

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jcb on November 15, 2014, 01:52:14 AM
It should be possible to tap the front of the superclamp (the part that looks like the upper jaw if you see the clamp as biting the rail). However :
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: goodcooker on November 15, 2014, 04:04:47 PM

Need some input on a sort of unusual clamping necessity I have coming up soon.

I'm going to record three nights in a row at a friend's bar that is shutting down after 11 years. The place is tiny (holds 50 ppl packed) and using a stand is completely out of the question so clamping it is.
The bad news is I'm using ADK TLs and they are huge and heavy. Unless I can borrow some other mics this is what I have (don't really want to borrow mics as this is probably going to be a completely drunken shit show of a weekend and I wouldn't want to risk someone else's gear in a hostile environment)

So the room has two large support columns one is near the center of the room  about 8-10 feet away from the stage (there is no stage so let's say the center vocal mic). It is about  one foot square which is where I'm getting stuck.

How in the hell can I hang a pair of big ass LD mics off of a 12" by 12" column or alternately

How can I clamp something in between the two columns which are about six feet apart that I could clamp the mics on 2 windtechs individually to spread out the weight?

The easiest solution I've been able to come up with is to ratchet strap a stand to the column in the center with some improvised spacers to keep it just a bit off the side of the column.

I have to get the mics up high enough to be above peoples heads ~9 ft  high and be able to run cables along the ceiling back to a corner where the gear bag will live (or maybe even back to the stock room 40-50 ft away).

 :help:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on November 15, 2014, 06:28:43 PM
You need a way of keeping the stand centered on the column so it can't twist or slide from side to side. 

Cut a "v" notch in the middle of the 2x4x12 1/4, nail a 2x4 end on each end to form a channel.  Put one of these near the top and one near the bottom of the stand.  Strap the stand to the column with straps near the top and bottom.   Use the straps to tension the stand tube into the notch enough that it doesn't move around.  It would be helpful if you could secure the 2x4 assembly to the column by screwing it in, but I don't know if they'll let you do that or not.    BAD IDEA.

On my deal, I decided not to tap my clamp.  I figured out a way to use a piece of aluminum angle and a cell phone holder to attach my recorder and my battery to the stand. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on November 15, 2014, 06:44:13 PM

Need some input on a sort of unusual clamping necessity I have coming up soon.

I'm going to record three nights in a row at a friend's bar that is shutting down after 11 years. The place is tiny (holds 50 ppl packed) and using a stand is completely out of the question so clamping it is.
The bad news is I'm using ADK TLs and they are huge and heavy. Unless I can borrow some other mics this is what I have (don't really want to borrow mics as this is probably going to be a completely drunken shit show of a weekend and I wouldn't want to risk someone else's gear in a hostile environment)

So the room has two large support columns one is near the center of the room  about 8-10 feet away from the stage (there is no stage so let's say the center vocal mic). It is about  one foot square which is where I'm getting stuck.

How in the hell can I hang a pair of big ass LD mics off of a 12" by 12" column or alternately

How can I clamp something in between the two columns which are about six feet apart that I could clamp the mics on 2 windtechs individually to spread out the weight?

The easiest solution I've been able to come up with is to ratchet strap a stand to the column in the center with some improvised spacers to keep it just a bit off the side of the column.

I have to get the mics up high enough to be above peoples heads ~9 ft  high and be able to run cables along the ceiling back to a corner where the gear bag will live (or maybe even back to the stock room 40-50 ft away).

 :help:

Option A. Bigger Clamp - Matthews Mattelini + Extendalini
http://www.filmtools.com/matthews-extendellini-420113.html

Obtion B.
Since your friends  bar is closing soon, screw a Baby Pin Wall Plate into the column.Then use a Manfrotto  Rapid adapter with 3/8 to 5/8 adapter

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=baby+wall+plate&N=0&InitialSearch=yes&sts=ma&Top+Nav-Search=

Option C
Mount the above baby pin to piece of wood. Ratchet Strap the wood to the column.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Blues Overboard on November 16, 2014, 10:05:34 AM

Need some input on a sort of unusual clamping necessity I have coming up soon.

I'm going to record three nights in a row at a friend's bar that is shutting down after 11 years. The place is tiny (holds 50 ppl packed) and using a stand is completely out of the question so clamping it is.
The bad news is I'm using ADK TLs and they are huge and heavy. Unless I can borrow some other mics this is what I have (don't really want to borrow mics as this is probably going to be a completely drunken shit show of a weekend and I wouldn't want to risk someone else's gear in a hostile environment)

So the room has two large support columns one is near the center of the room  about 8-10 feet away from the stage (there is no stage so let's say the center vocal mic). It is about  one foot square which is where I'm getting stuck.

How in the hell can I hang a pair of big ass LD mics off of a 12" by 12" column or alternately

How can I clamp something in between the two columns which are about six feet apart that I could clamp the mics on 2 windtechs individually to spread out the weight?

The easiest solution I've been able to come up with is to ratchet strap a stand to the column in the center with some improvised spacers to keep it just a bit off the side of the column.

I have to get the mics up high enough to be above peoples heads ~9 ft  high and be able to run cables along the ceiling back to a corner where the gear bag will live (or maybe even back to the stock room 40-50 ft away).

 :help:
good cooker,
I record in a similar setting every Sunday nite and your fix is real easy. Just go down to Home Cheapo and buy their largest bar-clamp and a 3/8" x 1"bolt.  Drll a hole in the end to mount your mic bar. Paint it flat-black or brown if you like. This setup works fantastic both in the field and in your shop.
BTW you really don't need to go 9' up to be out of the way, although you'll lose a little chatter that way. 7-8' and you're out of the way. But if it's gonna be a real shitshow like you say, then the higher the better.
Good luck,
Conan
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on November 17, 2014, 10:21:42 AM
After giving this more thought, 2x4's are unnecessary to hold the stand in position and potentially dangerous if they happen to fall on someone's head.  There's a similar risk for using a clamp overhead in a room full of drunk wookies.  Now if you loop your strap around the stand and then loop the strap around the column, that should hold the stand pretty well centered on the wall and be secure. 

You'll still need a standoff which you want to make sure can't fall off onto anyone. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: DigiGal on November 17, 2014, 06:27:10 PM
^^^ Use lighting safety cables designed for the purpose, they're not expensive.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on November 18, 2014, 12:50:22 PM
For those times where I can clamp to a railing, I was thinking of getting this:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33185-REG/Matthews_429499_Telescopic_Baby_Stand_Extension.html

and this:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/824360-REG/impact_cc_106r_super_clamp_with_ratchet.html

And sitting atop it will be:

http://avlex.com/products/hm-30-stand-mount/


Anything else needed to complete this setup?

Can you change the 'orientation' of the stud on the SuperClamp?

Any other recommendations?

Perhaps some actions shots?


So I am about to pull the trigger on Matthews Extension and the Impact SuperClamp but it looks like I will need an adapter to sit atop the extension  that will give me 5/8-27 male.

Anyone know of one?

Anyone currently using this extension and\or clamp setup that can offer opinions?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on November 18, 2014, 01:19:08 PM
Quote
So I am about to pull the trigger on Matthews Extension and the Impact SuperClamp but it looks like I will need an adapter to sit atop the extension  that will give me 5/8-27 male.

Anyone know of one?

My favorite way is

This (note the notch in each end, these help when you need to remove the adapter and it's in the female 5/8 27)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/232827-REG/K_M_21500_000_01_Reducer_Bushing_Converts_1_2.html

on this

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?sku=546490&Q=&O=&gclid=Cj0KEQiA-aujBRDqj772vpGfgooBEiQAzWAZUgCQ7Dhk0vyuDMXBtP4eIbo8d7jxHNFvw438rKK0K20aAr6Y8P8HAQ&is=REG&A=details

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: macdaddy on November 18, 2014, 03:12:34 PM
Don't forget the magic finger for that matthelinni... That is the piece that makes the whole setup totally versatile...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voltronic on November 18, 2014, 04:59:41 PM
It should be possible to tap the front of the superclamp (the part that looks like the upper jaw if you see the clamp as biting the rail). However :
  • you will need to take care that your device does not obstruct the clamp opening
  • you will note that the top side (the one with the spigot receiving hole / the top of the head in the previous image) already sports 5 threaded holes so that you could mount some kind of right angle bracket without making new holes in the clamp itself

Here's a place that sells them modified already.  Regarding the holes on the head - the center one is 1/4-20 which I've found useful - the others I can't tell and may be some sort of metric thread.  In any case, this company appears to have converted the center to 3/8-16, and one of the sides to 1/4-20.
http://freedom360.us/shop/super-clamp/ (http://freedom360.us/shop/super-clamp/)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on November 19, 2014, 09:23:54 AM
Don't forget the magic finger for that matthelinni... That is the piece that makes the whole setup totally versatile...

Do you have a link?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jcb on November 19, 2014, 01:23:06 PM
I have been checking the threads on 2 Manfrotto super clamps :
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: macdaddy on November 19, 2014, 01:45:50 PM
http://www.msegrip.com/2014catalog/cat42_hardware.pdf

The grip head is cool, too-they didn't have that when I bought the magic finger...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on November 19, 2014, 05:18:34 PM
Sorry to skip back for a sec, but I found a solution for what I needed using a piece of aluminum angle, two m5-.80x12 screws, and a cell phone holder case (to hold an external battery) for $8.59.  I could have skipped the cell phone holder case and just used velcro.  No drilling or tapping required this time, but who knows about the next?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on November 21, 2014, 11:22:52 AM
Quote
So I am about to pull the trigger on Matthews Extension and the Impact SuperClamp but it looks like I will need an adapter to sit atop the extension  that will give me 5/8-27 male.

Anyone know of one?

My favorite way is

This (note the notch in each end, these help when you need to remove the adapter and it's in the female 5/8 27)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/232827-REG/K_M_21500_000_01_Reducer_Bushing_Converts_1_2.html

on this

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?sku=546490&Q=&O=&gclid=Cj0KEQiA-aujBRDqj772vpGfgooBEiQAzWAZUgCQ7Dhk0vyuDMXBtP4eIbo8d7jxHNFvw438rKK0K20aAr6Y8P8HAQ&is=REG&A=details

+1 on the Manfrotto Rapid Adapter; I use them all the time.  Just to add another 2 cents of mine, I prefer these 3/8>5/8 adapters (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/400111-REG/On_Stage_MA_300_MA300_Screw_Adapter.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/400111-REG/On_Stage_MA_300_MA300_Screw_Adapter.html)) since they have a flange to keep them from getting stuck up into whatever you're using them on.  Personal preference, etc.

Also, I would consider taking a look at the Lowel extension poles.  They're a little more expensive than the Matthews extensions but are of heartier construction.  The big flaw I heard about the Matthews poles was that the plastic tightening collars would crack easily, rendering the extension pretty much useless.  The Manfrotto 122B is a solid piece of hardware, too, and what I use myself.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 22, 2014, 04:50:46 AM
I have [2] of those Radid Adapters too. OMG, how much easier they make taping and life haha. But seriously, it is a MAJOR help in setting up and tearing down. Plus you can dial in EXACTLY where you want your mics with them. Honestly, some of the best money I've spent on my rigs over the years! I always make sure I have at least 1 with me when I'm just recording 1 stage 8) Highly recommended IMO! 8) I have the 5/8">1/4" ones though, since ALL of my clamps and shocks are 1/4"! It makes everything compatible with each other that way, instead of having all different sizes on your clamps and shocks and whatnot ;)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 22, 2014, 05:29:19 AM

Need some input on a sort of unusual clamping necessity I have coming up soon.

I'm going to record three nights in a row at a friend's bar that is shutting down after 11 years. The place is tiny (holds 50 ppl packed) and using a stand is completely out of the question so clamping it is.
The bad news is I'm using ADK TLs and they are huge and heavy. Unless I can borrow some other mics this is what I have (don't really want to borrow mics as this is probably going to be a completely drunken shit show of a weekend and I wouldn't want to risk someone else's gear in a hostile environment)

So the room has two large support columns one is near the center of the room  about 8-10 feet away from the stage (there is no stage so let's say the center vocal mic). It is about  one foot square which is where I'm getting stuck.

How in the hell can I hang a pair of big ass LD mics off of a 12" by 12" column or alternately

How can I clamp something in between the two columns which are about six feet apart that I could clamp the mics on 2 windtechs individually to spread out the weight?

The easiest solution I've been able to come up with is to ratchet strap a stand to the column in the center with some improvised spacers to keep it just a bit off the side of the column.

I have to get the mics up high enough to be above peoples heads ~9 ft  high and be able to run cables along the ceiling back to a corner where the gear bag will live (or maybe even back to the stock room 40-50 ft away).

 :help:

You need a Rowi clamp ;) They ALL have wood screws built into them. Even though a Rowi 76 is TINY, its all metal, and I've used my old pair of 480s + AT 8415 shocks on a Rowi 76, and it was still rock solid. They're just a PITA to find :P And if you can find a Rowi 103, it will DEFINITELY hold your LDs ;) Its a bit bigger, but you can extend it out over 8" from the clamp, and since the bar is closing anyway, they wont care if there is a single screw hole in that post/column that is DFC ;)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 22, 2014, 05:33:34 AM

Need some input on a sort of unusual clamping necessity I have coming up soon.

I'm going to record three nights in a row at a friend's bar that is shutting down after 11 years. The place is tiny (holds 50 ppl packed) and using a stand is completely out of the question so clamping it is.
The bad news is I'm using ADK TLs and they are huge and heavy. Unless I can borrow some other mics this is what I have (don't really want to borrow mics as this is probably going to be a completely drunken shit show of a weekend and I wouldn't want to risk someone else's gear in a hostile environment)

So the room has two large support columns one is near the center of the room  about 8-10 feet away from the stage (there is no stage so let's say the center vocal mic). It is about  one foot square which is where I'm getting stuck.

How in the hell can I hang a pair of big ass LD mics off of a 12" by 12" column or alternately

How can I clamp something in between the two columns which are about six feet apart that I could clamp the mics on 2 windtechs individually to spread out the weight?

The easiest solution I've been able to come up with is to ratchet strap a stand to the column in the center with some improvised spacers to keep it just a bit off the side of the column.

I have to get the mics up high enough to be above peoples heads ~9 ft  high and be able to run cables along the ceiling back to a corner where the gear bag will live (or maybe even back to the stock room 40-50 ft away).

 :help:

Another option that has worked well for me in the past when screwing into a venues post is my beloved Lowel Full Pole ;) It is an extension that goes up to 7.5'!!! You can just duct tape it or bungie cord it to that center post, and it will DEFINITELY hold whatever mics you desire putting on it ;) Tonedeaf and I have done that at a small place in Pittsburgh called the Club Cafe, that only holds MAYBE 100 people MAX, and it couldn't have worked out ANY better ;) So if you tape/bungie it to that post, just put it up a few feet off the ground, and the Lowel full pole will take care of the rest since it goes up to 7.5' high!!!

BUT, if you don't have time to order it, then I would definitely just bungie/tape your stand to that pole and just keep the legs closed. That'll do the trick for sure!!!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on November 22, 2014, 12:28:04 PM
I'm self-promoting a bit here perhaps, but I love this thread and I'm glad to see it is still going strong...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 22, 2014, 01:10:52 PM
I'm self-promoting a bit here perhaps, but I love this thread and I'm glad to see it is still going strong...

Its going on 3 years strong almost to the day 8)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: DigiGal on November 22, 2014, 03:16:47 PM

Also, I would consider taking a look at the Lowel extension poles.  They're a little more expensive than the Matthews extensions but are of heartier construction.  The big flaw I heard about the Matthews poles was that the plastic tightening collars would crack easily, rendering the extension pretty much useless.  The Manfrotto 122B is a solid piece of hardware, too, and what I use myself.


The clamps on the similar Lowel Omni Stands are made of metal but they are not perfect either. 
However, Lowell is great in offering replacement parts for purchase though.
Pictured here is a broken one that I replaced. 


(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/clamps/file_zps8e6d7b85.jpg) (http://s1041.photobucket.com/user/DigiGal_taper/media/clamps/file_zps8e6d7b85.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on November 25, 2014, 12:38:23 PM
Quote
So I am about to pull the trigger on Matthews Extension and the Impact SuperClamp but it looks like I will need an adapter to sit atop the extension  that will give me 5/8-27 male.

Anyone know of one?

My favorite way is

This (note the notch in each end, these help when you need to remove the adapter and it's in the female 5/8 27)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/232827-REG/K_M_21500_000_01_Reducer_Bushing_Converts_1_2.html

on this

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?sku=546490&Q=&O=&gclid=Cj0KEQiA-aujBRDqj772vpGfgooBEiQAzWAZUgCQ7Dhk0vyuDMXBtP4eIbo8d7jxHNFvw438rKK0K20aAr6Y8P8HAQ&is=REG&A=details


Purchased these four items and really like the combination.
Didn't get a chance to try them in the field this past weekend as I had hoped but I think the baby extension maybe shorter than I expected.

Is there an extension to the extension?

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on November 25, 2014, 12:42:37 PM

Purchased these four items and really like the combination.
Didn't get a chance to try them in the field this past weekend as I had hoped but I think the baby extension maybe shorter than I expected.

Is there an extension to the extension?



I like the Manfrotto 099b when I need a 3 - 8 foot pole.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546540-REG/Manfrotto_099B_3_Section_Extension_Pole_35.html
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 28, 2014, 12:58:23 AM

Also, I would consider taking a look at the Lowel extension poles.  They're a little more expensive than the Matthews extensions but are of heartier construction.  The big flaw I heard about the Matthews poles was that the plastic tightening collars would crack easily, rendering the extension pretty much useless.  The Manfrotto 122B is a solid piece of hardware, too, and what I use myself.


The clamps on the similar Lowel Omni Stands are made of metal but they are not perfect either. 
However, Lowell is great in offering replacement parts for purchase though.
Pictured here is a broken one that I replaced. 


(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/clamps/file_zps8e6d7b85.jpg) (http://s1041.photobucket.com/user/DigiGal_taper/media/clamps/file_zps8e6d7b85.jpg.html)

Digi-Gal, I just had the exact same thing break on my Lowel Half Pole. So you said that they do have replacements of these? That's great news. Thanks ;)

I just duct taped it so it didn't move, and I still get almost 3' of height out of it with the top bar open!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on November 28, 2014, 08:06:59 PM
What caused this clamp to break?  I wouldn't expect a metal clamp to break unless maybe it fell on a concrete floor.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: capnhook on November 28, 2014, 08:11:52 PM
What caused this clamp to break?  I wouldn't expect a metal clamp to break unless maybe it fell on a concrete floor.

A stupid designer was the root cause.  Anyone can see there is insufficient inside corner radius at the fracture site ---- huge stress riser, fracture waiting to happen.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on November 30, 2014, 12:39:25 PM
Quote
So I am about to pull the trigger on Matthews Extension and the Impact SuperClamp but it looks like I will need an adapter to sit atop the extension  that will give me 5/8-27 male.

Anyone know of one?

My favorite way is

This (note the notch in each end, these help when you need to remove the adapter and it's in the female 5/8 27)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/232827-REG/K_M_21500_000_01_Reducer_Bushing_Converts_1_2.html

on this

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?sku=546490&Q=&O=&gclid=Cj0KEQiA-aujBRDqj772vpGfgooBEiQAzWAZUgCQ7Dhk0vyuDMXBtP4eIbo8d7jxHNFvw438rKK0K20aAr6Y8P8HAQ&is=REG&A=details


Purchased these four items and really like the combination.
Didn't get a chance to try them in the field this past weekend as I had hoped but I think the baby extension maybe shorter than I expected.

Is there an extension to the extension?


I bought this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33142-REG/Matthews_426016_Baby_Stand_Extension.html

But the spigot on the rapid adapter is too short. Looked on B&H but couldn't find one, at least now one that looked exactly like it but a little longer.

Anyone using this extension with a rapid adapter?

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: DigiGal on November 30, 2014, 02:31:09 PM
What caused this clamp to break?  I wouldn't expect a metal clamp to break unless maybe it fell on a concrete floor.

A stupid designer was the root cause.  Anyone can see there is insufficient inside corner radius at the fracture site ---- huge stress riser, fracture waiting to happen.

This, the stand never fell, it was just the normal stress of tightening the section.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 30, 2014, 05:21:34 PM
What caused this clamp to break?  I wouldn't expect a metal clamp to break unless maybe it fell on a concrete floor.

A stupid designer was the root cause.  Anyone can see there is insufficient inside corner radius at the fracture site ---- huge stress riser, fracture waiting to happen.

This, the stand never fell, it was just the normal stress of tightening the section.

Same here. My Lowel half pole never hit the ground either. Just tightened it a hair too much :(

Digi-Gal, did you just get ahold of Lowel directly? Or did you go through where you bought the stand to get the replacement ???
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: capnhook on November 30, 2014, 06:25:58 PM
Sure, it won't fall, because it is all wedged-up and tightened.  Stuff's not supposed to prematurely fail when it has proper design, which is the point I'm trying to make.

Did Lowel re-design the clamp, or do they continue to re-supply junk that will again hit the landfull too soon?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on November 30, 2014, 08:54:15 PM
Sure, it won't fall, because it is all wedged-up and tightened.  Stuff's not supposed to prematurely fail when it has proper design, which is the point I'm trying to make.

Did Lowel re-design the clamp, or do they continue to re-supply junk that will again hit the landfull too soon?

Its a shame too, because other than the poorly designed clamps, they are quality poles/stands :(
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: DigiGal on December 01, 2014, 11:07:10 AM
What caused this clamp to break?  I wouldn't expect a metal clamp to break unless maybe it fell on a concrete floor.

A stupid designer was the root cause.  Anyone can see there is insufficient inside corner radius at the fracture site ---- huge stress riser, fracture waiting to happen.

This, the stand never fell, it was just the normal stress of tightening the section.

Same here. My Lowel half pole never hit the ground either. Just tightened it a hair too much :(

Digi-Gal, did you just get ahold of Lowel directly? Or did you go through where you bought the stand to get the replacement ???

Here you go Bean - http://lowel.tiffen.com/parts.html  You can buy parts directly from Lowell or through authorized dealer.  Everything you need you can get from the link.

No the part is not improved, they've had a history of clamps breaking and while the newer clamps have changed a bit in the last couple of decades they are still prone to failure.

Overall Lowell stands aren't bad but they are not indestructible and there are certainly other options out there that can meet the task equally as well or even better!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on December 02, 2014, 02:36:40 PM
What caused this clamp to break?  I wouldn't expect a metal clamp to break unless maybe it fell on a concrete floor.

A stupid designer was the root cause.  Anyone can see there is insufficient inside corner radius at the fracture site ---- huge stress riser, fracture waiting to happen.

This, the stand never fell, it was just the normal stress of tightening the section.

Same here. My Lowel half pole never hit the ground either. Just tightened it a hair too much :(

Digi-Gal, did you just get ahold of Lowel directly? Or did you go through where you bought the stand to get the replacement ???

Here you go Bean - http://lowel.tiffen.com/parts.html  You can buy parts directly from Lowell or through authorized dealer.  Everything you need you can get from the link.

No the part is not improved, they've had a history of clamps breaking and while the newer clamps have changed a bit in the last couple of decades they are still prone to failure.

Overall Lowell stands aren't bad but they are not indestructible and there are certainly other options out there that can meet the task equally as well or even better!

Thanks a LOT DigiGal ;) But I'm unsure if I need part 3004 or 3005 ??? Do you remember which one you ordered to replace the clamp? Thanks in advance ;) For $9.00, i surely don't want to order the wrong part ;D 8) I'm 99.9999% sure I need 3005, correct?

TIA,
Bean
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on December 15, 2014, 10:00:37 AM
Agreed with everything page has to say regarding safety cables.  The only thing I'd add is, if they still make them, you might want to see if you can find cables with a plastic/vinyl/rubber coating like what you find on tool handles rather than the exposed braided steel.  Not that it's guaranteed to happen, but they're less likely to mar up the surface of whatever you have to attach them to.  I picked up a few of the coated ones at B&H years ago but couldn't find them now when I took a quick look online.


Does anyone know where to get the cables Fried Chicken Boy speaks of?
I'd like to get some safety cables for future balcony clamping but don't want to scratch any thing up in the process.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voltronic on December 15, 2014, 06:31:35 PM
I'm considering picking up a 099B pole to clamp onto a balcony rail in an auditorium.  What I'm wondering is if the super clamp holds tight enough where I can cantilever the pole out from the balcony at a 45° angle.  I've been quite impressed with how strong the clamp holds, but in this case I'm wondering if I would be asking too much of it given the torsional stress.  Anyone have experience doing this?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on December 16, 2014, 12:58:10 AM
I use my 099b/superclamp combo at 0, 45 and 90 degree orientations with Busman BSC1.

I do refrain from fully extending the pole when using it as a boom.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on December 16, 2014, 03:16:12 PM
Agreed with everything page has to say regarding safety cables.  The only thing I'd add is, if they still make them, you might want to see if you can find cables with a plastic/vinyl/rubber coating like what you find on tool handles rather than the exposed braided steel.  Not that it's guaranteed to happen, but they're less likely to mar up the surface of whatever you have to attach them to.  I picked up a few of the coated ones at B&H years ago but couldn't find them now when I took a quick look online.


Does anyone know where to get the cables Fried Chicken Boy speaks of?
I'd like to get some safety cables for future balcony clamping but don't want to scratch any thing up in the process.

Wow, that's an old post! ;D  I haven't seen the coated safety cables at B&H or other shops I frequent in at least 3-4 years.  Guessing there weren't enough people asking for them?  A few PVC-coated ones did turn up in a Google search, with the first link maybe being a little more in line with our hobby (and I think they're the ones I have):

http://www.musson.com/safety-cable-30-black-pvc-coated.html (http://www.musson.com/safety-cable-30-black-pvc-coated.html)

http://www.iboats.com/Garelick-Heavy-Duty-Motor-Safety-Cable/dm/cart_id.599243056--session_id.670190673--view_id.38013 (http://www.iboats.com/Garelick-Heavy-Duty-Motor-Safety-Cable/dm/cart_id.599243056--session_id.670190673--view_id.38013)

As a few alternatives, you could also buy the cables that people use for locking up their bicycles (perhaps a little too thick or long) and add your own carabiner,  or coat the bare steel cable yourself in something like Plasti Dip. > http://www.plastidip.com/home_solutions/Plasti_Dip (http://www.plastidip.com/home_solutions/Plasti_Dip)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: fobstl on December 16, 2014, 04:21:25 PM
I have these safety cables from B&H and they seem to work well:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/32222-REG/Lowel_CM_50_Safety_Cable.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/32222-REG/Lowel_CM_50_Safety_Cable.html)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voltronic on December 16, 2014, 05:26:16 PM
I use my 099b/superclamp combo at 0, 45 and 90 degree orientations with Busman BSC1.

I do refrain from fully extending the pole when using it as a boom.

Good to know - thanks.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voltronic on December 16, 2014, 05:40:06 PM
I remember reading this thread a while back about using paracord since it's so strong.  Although if you read through the thread Chris make a quite strenuous point that it's a bad idea when you think of what might happen in a fire.
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=163695.msg2051301 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=163695.msg2051301)

Never having tried it, my inclination is to use both.  Steel safety cable around main rig and pipe or whatever you're clamping to.  But the paracord would allow you to take strain off the rig when cantilevered out as in the pics in the first post of that thread which I think is a neat idea.  In the event the paracord burns up in a fire, the steel cable is still there to save everything from falling.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: flipp on December 16, 2014, 11:40:26 PM
Coated steel cable* is available in bulk at many (most?) hardware stores along with lead "blanks" for joining two pieces of cable. Add the hardware you want (carabiner, etc), strip off a small amount of the coating so the "blanks" grip the wire of the cable and have the store fabricate a safety cable of any length and diameter you want. No postage and minimal waiting involved.


* usually on spools in the same rack with bulk chain and carabiners, d-rings etc are often close by
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: if_then_else on April 11, 2015, 01:51:59 AM
I guess Matthellini/Cardellini clamps have already been discussed at length in this thread - but what would be the sturdiest option to go off a Cardellini clamp at a right angle (or basically any angle) when using the clamp in combination with a camcorder + video head? I have two Manfrotto swivel umbrella and flash adapters but I doubt they're sturdy enough, if you mount something really heavy onto them.

I've had a look at the Matthews Right Angle Baby Pin Adapter (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33176-REG/Matthews_429232_Right_Angle_Baby_Pin.html) - but there are only a few distributors here in Europe (UK, CH, NL) who'd have it in stock. Moreover, the shipping costs would almost match the price of the item.

Are there any alternatives to this adapter or are there any other heavy-duty adapters (or grip heads) that would allow me to rotate the video head in any desired position?

N.B.: I know there are right-angle Cardellini clamps (http://www.cardelliniclamp.com/inc/sdetail/185) or Muralini clamps (https://www.mbfshop.de/de/Stockclearing/Muraro-MU019-Muralini-Clamp-with-5/8-hexagonal-socket.html) that could be attached to a superclamp. But I'd prefer to reuse on of my existing clamps in order to minimise the amount of gear I'll have to carry.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: macdaddy on April 11, 2015, 06:52:43 AM
I use the magic finger. I stuck a cotter pin in the hole for added security to avoid slippage...

http://www.filmtools.com/mamaficatno3.html

Pretty sure this is it ( somewhere in this thread I linked to the place I purchased it; thus us just the first link that popped up on google)...

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: if_then_else on April 11, 2015, 07:51:43 AM
I use the magic finger. I stuck a cotter pin in the hole for added security to avoid slippage...

http://www.filmtools.com/mamaficatno3.html

Pretty sure this is it ( somewhere in this thread I linked to the place I purchased it; thus us just the first link that popped up on google)...

Thanks for the hint. The Tether Tools Elbow on bhp (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1033020-REG/tether_tools_rs606_rock_solid_aero_elbow.html) looks pretty similar to the Matthews Magic Finger and is also available from photo shops here in Germany. The specs ("Load Capacity: 80 lb") are looking good, too. So, I might go for that one.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on April 29, 2015, 11:13:13 AM
This question may be answered with the 2 posts above but I want to throw it out there anyways.
In the picture below, my rig is the one furthest from the stage (or closest to camera... depending on your perspective).
If you look closely, you can see the active bar is askew and not pointed directly at the stage.
This is due the shockmount I used having a tight radius (for lack of a better term) and not offset enough to give clearance.

The magic finger and Tether Tools seem a little pricey for something I will 'probably' only use in these situations.

Anyone have a different solution?





Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian Skalinder on April 29, 2015, 04:31:28 PM
Anyone have a different solution?

In your scenario, you don't need to concern yourself with much load -- since the component will need to bear the load of the actives + shockmount only -- I would think any old ballhead for a DSLR would do the trick, for example (one of many):

~$13 | http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/221096-REG/Giottos_MH1004_320_MH_1004_Mini_Ball.html

Or something like:

~$7 | http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/400142-REG/On_Stage_MSA_9501_Posi_Lok_Clutch.html

(Not sure what the load rating is on the Posi-Lok Clutch, though I've used with my extension pole before many times.)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on April 29, 2015, 05:09:42 PM
That looks perfect!


Thanks!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on April 30, 2015, 09:36:27 AM
^^ If you're not intent on attaching your mics to the end of the extension pole and are cool using a clamp on the bar itself, the Windtech C-clamp (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298908-REG/WindTech_MPC_10_Multi_Position_C_Type_Clamp.html) is a great multi-purpose tool.  It's pretty sturdy, relatively inexpensive, and would allow you to mount your mics upright, giving you full rotational adjustment as well. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on April 30, 2015, 11:23:29 AM
^^ If you're not intent on attaching your mics to the end of the extension pole and are cool using a clamp on the bar itself, the Windtech C-clamp (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298908-REG/WindTech_MPC_10_Multi_Position_C_Type_Clamp.html) is a great multi-purpose tool.  It's pretty sturdy, relatively inexpensive, and would allow you to mount your mics upright, giving you full rotational adjustment as well.
Have 4 of them!
Agreed it would have been a great option, but I got there last that night!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: bluewingolive on April 30, 2015, 11:34:37 AM
That looks perfect!


Thanks!
I've used both of those recommendations.  Very handy and cost effective. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gordon on July 29, 2015, 02:34:58 PM
I very rarely clamp to balcony's. I picked up some accessories last year just to have. I'll be using some of them for ARU in athens soon.

I grabbed a couple of these safety cables but I'm not real sure how to use it properly!

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/195824-REG/Altman_SC_36_BK_Steel_Safety_Cable_Black.html

it says

Quote
Thread it around a piece of hanging equipment and around a support structure, such as a pipe or a batten, and then clip it to it's loop

I get how to loop it around the balcony but not sure how to use it around the clamp/mics/pole. 

I'll be using this clamp more than likely

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/252212-REG/Manfrotto_649_649_Quick_Action_Release.html

I may or may not use an extension pole.

any tips/pics etc? I remember seeing pics (probably in this thread) but I remember not being able to really tell what was going on.


edit:

the pic a few up helps!

sort of.  when I use the 1/4"-20 thread eye-hook on the bogen rapid-adapter it's not very tight on the pole. the eye hook doesn't fit on the clamp well enough for the bar not to be loose.


this is what I'm going for if not using the extension. the silver part does not come off the clamp even if the top piece is loosened all the way.


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v488/datdork/IMG_20150729_140137_zpsv7ilkdc7.jpg)



so this should work if I pull the mics and actives through right?


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v488/datdork/IMG_20150729_145156_zps7edcmj8o.jpg)



(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v488/datdork/IMG_20150729_150411_zps1p0gqokc.jpg)



Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jbell on July 29, 2015, 03:18:54 PM
We should use my Manfroto extension pole!!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gordon on July 29, 2015, 03:24:02 PM
I have one as well. haven't confirmed if they let folks use them there. asked zman but he didn't say. he said super clamp or even windtech will work. so the above should work fine with or without extension.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jbell on July 29, 2015, 03:49:07 PM
He just super clamps his mics to the rail?? 

I have one as well. haven't confirmed if they let folks use them there. asked zman but he didn't say. he said super clamp or even windtech will work. so the above should work fine with or without extension.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gordon on July 29, 2015, 04:15:50 PM
not sure. he didn't answer that part  ;D
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on July 29, 2015, 07:35:18 PM
^^ You might not want to thread the microphone cables through the loop of the safety cable.  I'd secure the mic cables to the extension pole separately.  My .02 cents.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jbell on August 01, 2015, 09:44:19 AM

Bring the extension pole so I can clamp!
not sure. he didn't answer that part  ;D
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian E. on August 02, 2015, 12:48:53 AM
my extension arm broke a tightening section somehow :(  Seemed to still work but I'll probably have to buy a new one.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on August 05, 2015, 10:59:31 AM
^^ If you have a Manfrotto extension arm, you might take a look at one of the following sites for a replacement piece. >

https://www.manfrottospares.com/ (https://www.manfrottospares.com/)
http://www.manfrottotripodparts.com/ (http://www.manfrottotripodparts.com/)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian E. on August 06, 2015, 12:27:44 AM
thanks!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on August 06, 2015, 11:07:57 AM
Found another U.S. based company that appears to have better pricing for Manfrotto parts. > https://www.ued.net/ued/searchResults.jsp (https://www.ued.net/ued/searchResults.jsp)

Use the official Manfrotto site and plug in the model number of a particular product (like "099" for the extension pole) and it will kick out a link to a diagram of the piece that has all the part numbers on it. > http://www.manfrotto.us/Service/Spare+Parts/ (http://www.manfrotto.us/Service/Spare+Parts/)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian E. on August 06, 2015, 10:45:35 PM
awesome thank you.  I think I have the 099.  Have to check later once the kid is awake :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voodoostrat on November 21, 2015, 07:47:47 PM
I had my machinist amigo do some work for me on my Manfrotto and a old WindTech. I wanted to eliminate the 5/8 stud on the WindTech and go with a option for 1/4 & 3/8 threads. I got to looking at one of my adaptors and thought that one of them could be turned down to fit in the WindTech…I opted for the 3/8 - 1/4 double female. I had him turn down the 1/4 side, it came out better then I imagined. While at his house he looked at the super clamp and said "Do you need more holes on this too?", I thought about it for a second and said yes! Here are some pix of the results...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voltronic on November 22, 2015, 07:30:41 AM
^ Very cool! 

I found this (http://freedom360.us/shop/super-clamp/) before which I thought looked cool, but overpriced considering the clamp doesn't look like a real Manfrotto.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: JiB97 on November 24, 2015, 03:07:29 PM
anyone currently using this clamp???

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/350845-REG/ATS_UCAT_Clamp_Ball_Head.html/prm/alsVwDtl
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Brian Skalinder on November 24, 2015, 04:07:10 PM
anyone currently using this clamp???

Not currently, but I've used an UltraClamp in the past.  Very flexible in its configuration options, but IME not very robust.  I think it's really only suited to a lightweight mic / mount setup -- like actives with a simple mount bar.  I used it with AKG 414s and it slipped.  Not catastrophically, as the mics didn't come crashing down.  But nonetheless it slipped slowly and visibly relatively quickly.  I probably wouldn't use it with full-size SD mics +shockmounts, either.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: JiB97 on November 24, 2015, 04:54:45 PM
anyone currently using this clamp???

Not currently, but I've used an UltraClamp in the past.  Very flexible in its configuration options, but IME not very robust.  I think it's really only suited to a lightweight mic / mount setup -- like actives with a simple mount bar.  I used it with AKG 414s and it slipped.  Not catastrophically, as the mics didn't come crashing down.  But nonetheless it slipped slowly and visibly relatively quickly.  I probably wouldn't use it with full-size SD mics +shockmounts, either.

Ahh thanks Brian, I think I remember reading that story of you issues with this clamp.  I plan on using it with my set of AT 853s, so I don't think weight should be an issue with those guys.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on May 07, 2016, 10:58:10 AM
Can anyone recommend a small footprint stand base that I could use with this:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33185-REG/Matthews_429499_Telescopic_Baby_Stand_Extension.html

For those times I want to run at stage lip and be as compact as possible


Thanks
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: flipp on May 07, 2016, 12:23:18 PM
Can anyone recommend a small footprint stand base that I could use with this:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33185-REG/Matthews_429499_Telescopic_Baby_Stand_Extension.html

For those times I want to run at stage lip and be as compact as possible


Thanks


The following should work: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1119713-REG/impact_ls_3sb_backlight_stand_base.html/prm/alsVwDtl
also scroll down to the "also viewed" section as there are other options/styles, some with adapter studs, some without


<eta Also search B&H or other retailers for "kick drum stand". TGak uses one as a base for an extension pole (there's a pic of it somewhere here - http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=110425.0 see third pic -on ts but I don't have time at the moment to search for it - perhaps later if no one else links to it). Even DIY is possible.  >
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: mosquito on May 08, 2016, 06:03:58 PM
Generically, I would go for the table-top mic stand base or the drum mic stand base too. 

Small tripod bases don't work as well as big ones exactly because they're small.  They're not wide enough to do the job well.  If there's a huge stage with sedate performers and you need to carry your gear in in your pocket.

Small, heavy bases are OK if you don't raise them too high.  For the same height, they give a smaller footprint.  Here are some that fit this description:  http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?atclk=Base+Type_Square&ci=14715&N=3992462163+4294956984+4291070770

Still, it depends on your real needs.  Do you want the smallest and easiest to carry in or do you want it to use the least area on stage?  For the least area on stage, can you clamp it to the lip?

How much will your performers be moving around?  For the average band (and stage) I see, I would actually want to use regular solid steel bases.  They're the least likely to get knocked over.  Safety and reliability are my first concerns.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: aaronji on May 09, 2016, 06:03:56 AM
The Manfrotto 003 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546481-REG/Manfrotto_003_003_Backlight_Stand_Black.html) is a good on-stage stand base.  It works with a lot of extension poles and it's pretty compact when folded.  If weight is no object, the K&M bass drum mic stand is built like a tank.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 09, 2016, 06:57:44 AM
Can anyone recommend a small footprint stand base that I could use with this:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33185-REG/Matthews_429499_Telescopic_Baby_Stand_Extension.html

For those times I want to run at stage lip and be as compact as possible


Thanks


The following should work: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1119713-REG/impact_ls_3sb_backlight_stand_base.html/prm/alsVwDtl
also scroll down to the "also viewed" section as there are other options/styles, some with adapter studs, some without


<eta Also search B&H or other retailers for "kick drum stand". TGak uses one as a base for an extension pole (there's a pic of it somewhere here - http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=110425.0 see third pic -on ts but I don't have time at the moment to search for it - perhaps later if no one else links to it). Even DIY is possible.  >

Generically, I would go for the table-top mic stand base or the drum mic stand base too. 

Small tripod bases don't work as well as big ones exactly because they're small.  They're not wide enough to do the job well.  If there's a huge stage with sedate performers and you need to carry your gear in in your pocket.

Small, heavy bases are OK if you don't raise them too high.  For the same height, they give a smaller footprint.  Here are some that fit this description:  http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?atclk=Base+Type_Square&ci=14715&N=3992462163+4294956984+4291070770

Still, it depends on your real needs.  Do you want the smallest and easiest to carry in or do you want it to use the least area on stage?  For the least area on stage, can you clamp it to the lip?

How much will your performers be moving around?  For the average band (and stage) I see, I would actually want to use regular solid steel bases.  They're the least likely to get knocked over.  Safety and reliability are my first concerns.

The Manfrotto 003 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546481-REG/Manfrotto_003_003_Backlight_Stand_Black.html) is a good on-stage stand base.  It works with a lot of extension poles and it's pretty compact when folded.  If weight is no object, the K&M bass drum mic stand is built like a tank.

+T to all of you 8) I saved all of those links to my bookmarks :) I have been wanting a small footprint like this for onstage stuff too, and there are some perfect and cheap options you guys linked! I really appreciate you guys saving me the time and energy of looking for all of that stuff lol! I always have my OLD camera/video Tripod from the 1980s that does the job, but I cant run it any lower than like 1.5-2' or so :P :( One of these would be perfect ;D Now I can use my Lowel Half Pole to get a lil lower than my old camera tripod, or just use the Manfrotto SuperClamp stud that I have and put my rapid adapter on that, to get just inches off of the ground if ever needed :) But one of those table bases and the Half Pole/Matthews Extensions should be a perfect fit, and can easily get low enough and high enough to get above monitors and amps on stage :) And the ability to fold up the Manfrotto/Impact bases linked above is really incredible IMO! I can easily fit that into my gear bags :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: StarkRavingCalm on May 10, 2016, 01:15:10 PM
Generically, I would go for the table-top mic stand base or the drum mic stand base too. 

Small tripod bases don't work as well as big ones exactly because they're small.  They're not wide enough to do the job well.  If there's a huge stage with sedate performers and you need to carry your gear in in your pocket.

Small, heavy bases are OK if you don't raise them too high.  For the same height, they give a smaller footprint.  Here are some that fit this description:  http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?atclk=Base+Type_Square&ci=14715&N=3992462163+4294956984+4291070770

Still, it depends on your real needs.  Do you want the smallest and easiest to carry in or do you want it to use the least area on stage?  For the least area on stage, can you clamp it to the lip?

How much will your performers be moving around?  For the average band (and stage) I see, I would actually want to use regular solid steel bases.  They're the least likely to get knocked over.  Safety and reliability are my first concerns.


I think a table top base will be too small for this application, although the extension I am using is quite lightweight.

I would like something for those times where stage lip was unavailable, like that small local bar where the band is just setup on one side of the room and the owner wont let you clamp to the table you are sitting at.

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: seethreepo on June 29, 2016, 01:13:10 AM
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEEWER-Microphone-Suspension-Boom-Scissor-Arm-Stand-Studio-Mic-Holder-NEW/252440479894?_trksid=p2045573.c100507.m3226&_trkparms=aid%3D555014%26algo%3DPL.DEFAULT%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D36866%26meid%3Df47cc42ba47940548e7020d56b0ce30e%26pid%3D100507%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D1%26

has anyone used anything like this to clamp to / & out over a balcony?   Seems like a cost effective , small, lightweight ,portable solution  as opposed to  a pole/ half pole   / clamp combo.   
thoughts?
 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voltronic on June 29, 2016, 07:02:18 AM
^ I wouldn't do it.  These are the type of thing used in radio broadcast.  The clamp on those things is pretty flimsy compared to the super clamps and made to use with a flat desk.  It would never open wide enough for something like a balcony rail, nor would it grab securely.  The arm joints also don't lock down but are made to move easily with a fairly light touch - picture a radio broadcaster grabbing and adjusting it while on the air seated at their desk.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: vanark on June 29, 2016, 09:52:46 AM
Manfrotto has 2 section and 3 section articulating arms that perform well for that type of situation. They don't cost $20, but they are the right tool for the job.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: DigiGal on June 29, 2016, 11:04:21 AM
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEEWER-Microphone-Suspension-Boom-Scissor-Arm-Stand-Studio-Mic-Holder-NEW/252440479894?_trksid=p2045573.c100507.m3226&_trkparms=aid%3D555014%26algo%3DPL.DEFAULT%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D36866%26meid%3Df47cc42ba47940548e7020d56b0ce30e%26pid%3D100507%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D1%26

has anyone used anything like this to clamp to / & out over a balcony?   Seems like a cost effective , small, lightweight ,portable solution  as opposed to  a pole/ half pole   / clamp combo.   
thoughts?
 

Definitely wouldn't recommend that.

This would be better suited for over a balcony (post #35 in TSKB clamps). . .
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=2456.msg1999346#msg1999346
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: seethreepo on June 29, 2016, 01:14:55 PM
Thanks guys re the above advice. What would be the most cost effective option?  I have a pretty modest open rig  dollar value wise and it seems so counter intuitive to spend as much or more than the electronics  compared to the hardware.   
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: goodcooker on June 29, 2016, 01:27:44 PM
Thanks guys re the above advice. What would be the most cost effective option?  I have a pretty modest open rig  dollar value wise and it seems so counter intuitive to spend as much or more than the electronics  compared to the hardware.

Are you running full body mics and heavy shock mounts? Go with a super clamp and a real extension arm. Like this http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/850345-REG/impact_bhe_107_2_sec_articulated_arm_w_o.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/850345-REG/impact_bhe_107_2_sec_articulated_arm_w_o.html). You are in for around $60.

For a light setup (actives or small mics with plastic clips) I have used a Windtech C clamp and a flexible gooseneck. Like this http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298897-REG/WindTech_GN_19B_19_Flexible_Metal_Gooseneck.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298897-REG/WindTech_GN_19B_19_Flexible_Metal_Gooseneck.html). In for under $30.

When you are clamping a rig and hanging it out over people's heads you need to spend the coin on the safest setup.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: DigiGal on June 29, 2016, 03:19:25 PM
When you are clamping a rig and hanging it out over people's heads you need to spend the coin on the safest setup.

QFT - Safety has to be priority number one!

Safety cables are a must too but even then the venue may not let you clamp to their balcony rail or over people's heads.

Good shock mounts are important, people sometimes pound on the balcony rails or bump into them etc. Without proper shock mounts the thumps would be transferred right into the mic's.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: seethreepo on June 29, 2016, 03:19:54 PM
Thanks guys re the above advice. What would be the most cost effective option?  I have a pretty modest open rig  dollar value wise and it seems so counter intuitive to spend as much or more than the electronics  compared to the hardware.

Are you running full body mics and heavy shock mounts? Go with a super clamp and a real extension arm. Like this http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/850345-REG/impact_bhe_107_2_sec_articulated_arm_w_o.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/850345-REG/impact_bhe_107_2_sec_articulated_arm_w_o.html). You are in for around $60.

For a light setup (actives or small mics with plastic clips) I have used a Windtech C clamp and a flexible gooseneck. Like this http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298897-REG/WindTech_GN_19B_19_Flexible_Metal_Gooseneck.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298897-REG/WindTech_GN_19B_19_Flexible_Metal_Gooseneck.html). In for under $30.

When you are clamping a rig and hanging it out over people's heads you need to spend the coin on the safest setup.


Thanks  Cooker !  the articulated arm looks great    but do you think  the gooseneck   would it support a tbar 2 small shocks and  pair of Studio projects c4 's do you think? or would it only "hang"    ie is it rigid enough to point straight out  or would the weight of the proposed gear bend it?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on June 29, 2016, 03:36:23 PM
When you are clamping a rig and hanging it out over people's heads you need to spend the coin on the safest setup.

QFT - Safety has to be priority number one!

Safety cables are a must too but even then the venue may not let you clamp to their balcony rail or over people's heads.

Good shock mounts are important, people sometimes pound on the balcony rails or bump into them etc. Without proper shock mounts the thumps would be transferred right into the mic's.
After I posted a picture of my balcony mounted set up of naiant PFA's AKGck61's someone here pointed me to these safety cables; I bought two and have yet to need them, but they are cool:
https://www.amazon.com/Chauvet-CH-05-Safety-Cable/dp/B0013YGMRC
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on June 30, 2016, 03:00:22 PM
QFT - Safety has to be priority number one!

Safety cables are a must too but even then the venue may not let you clamp to their balcony rail or over people's heads.

Good shock mounts are important, people sometimes pound on the balcony rails or bump into them etc. Without proper shock mounts the thumps would be transferred right into the mic's.

This.  Don't even think about clamping and hanging your rig off a balcony, and over people's heads, unless you do it right and also use safety cables.  Make sure every piece of your mounting gear is somehow attached to the cables.  Bad enough if one of your microphones takes a dive, but hitting an attendee down below with a piece of your falling rig is unacceptable.  Not only is it bad juju to injure someone but you'll put the venue in a position where they're liable and they could very easily pull the plug on open recording.  Happened at a few venues I regularly taped in, thank goodness nobody got hit by the mics/gear. 

I would suggest the articulated arms and/or extension poles due to rigidity as opposed to goosenecks, but that's a personal opinion. 

And DigiGal's suggestion of shockmounts is a must.  Unlike rolling from a stand where the stand itself can absorb vibration, you really don't have such a buffer when clamping.  All it takes is a single ADHD case hammering away on the railing all night to make your perfect recording painful to listen to.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: seethreepo on June 30, 2016, 03:56:54 PM
glad to see we are a safety conscious crew  here.   :) Despite my thrifty tendency  I wouldn't risk anyone's safety.   Preferences between c style clamps and superclamps ?   in terms of safety  / secure grip / versitlity?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on July 01, 2016, 12:28:56 PM
Having one/a few of both types (Superclamps and C-clamps) would be a good thing for your gearbag.  Different tools for different jobs, you also need to take into account the weight of whatever the clamp is supporting.  The Superclamp is the heartier of the two and able to hold more weight, the C-clamp is a little smaller and better for tight spaces and poles.  goodcooker's comment is a good rule of thumb:

Are you running full body mics and heavy shock mounts? Go with a super clamp and a real extension arm. Like this http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/850345-REG/impact_bhe_107_2_sec_articulated_arm_w_o.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/850345-REG/impact_bhe_107_2_sec_articulated_arm_w_o.html). You are in for around $60.

For a light setup (actives or small mics with plastic clips) I have used a Windtech C clamp and a flexible gooseneck. Like this http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298897-REG/WindTech_GN_19B_19_Flexible_Metal_Gooseneck.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298897-REG/WindTech_GN_19B_19_Flexible_Metal_Gooseneck.html). In for under $30.

When you are clamping a rig and hanging it out over people's heads you need to spend the coin on the safest setup.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gordon on August 16, 2016, 02:05:18 PM
I was given a rowi clamp (thanks jbell)!  I'm terrible at figuring out what adapter I need.  I think 5/8 to 1/4?

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v488/datdork/IMG_20160816_134738_zpspjfs4ke0.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/datdork/media/IMG_20160816_134738_zpspjfs4ke0.jpg.html)


something like this?  it's reversible so does 3/8 as well

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1083039-REG/auray_ad_combo_s_5_8_to_3_8.html
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jbell on August 16, 2016, 03:23:33 PM
That should work Gordon!  This would also work with your existing adapters.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/999216-REG/flm_10_00_020_3_8_16_to_1_4_20_female.html
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on August 16, 2016, 09:44:59 PM
I was given a rowi clamp (thanks jbell)!  I'm terrible at figuring out what adapter I need.  I think 5/8 to 1/4?

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v488/datdork/IMG_20160816_134738_zpspjfs4ke0.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/datdork/media/IMG_20160816_134738_zpspjfs4ke0.jpg.html)


something like this?  it's reversible so does 3/8 as well

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1083039-REG/auray_ad_combo_s_5_8_to_3_8.html

That's a Rowi 76, nice :) And that's a 1/4"-20 male thread on the Rowi, so figure out what you need from that :) And +T to JBell for giving you a Rowi Clamp :) Don't forget there is a tree screw at the end of the tightening rod ;)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: georgeh on September 11, 2016, 11:47:33 AM
trying to clamp to a ceiling rafter with fire protection spray on it
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: georgeh on September 11, 2016, 11:48:34 AM
currently using a strap clamp but would prefer something else.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rigpimp on September 11, 2016, 12:08:46 PM
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEEWER-Microphone-Suspension-Boom-Scissor-Arm-Stand-Studio-Mic-Holder-NEW/252440479894?_trksid=p2045573.c100507.m3226&_trkparms=aid%3D555014%26algo%3DPL.DEFAULT%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D36866%26meid%3Df47cc42ba47940548e7020d56b0ce30e%26pid%3D100507%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D1%26

has anyone used anything like this to clamp to / & out over a balcony?   Seems like a cost effective , small, lightweight ,portable solution  as opposed to  a pole/ half pole   / clamp combo.   
thoughts?
 

Use a Manfrotto Magic Arm. 

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/325444-REG/Manfrotto_244N_244N_Variable_Friction_Magic.html
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: seethreepo on September 11, 2016, 12:22:07 PM
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEEWER-Microphone-Suspension-Boom-Scissor-Arm-Stand-Studio-Mic-Holder-NEW/252440479894?_trksid=p2045573.c100507.m3226&_trkparms=aid%3D555014%26algo%3DPL.DEFAULT%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D36866%26meid%3Df47cc42ba47940548e7020d56b0ce30e%26pid%3D100507%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D1%26

has anyone used anything like this to clamp to / & out over a balcony?   Seems like a cost effective , small, lightweight ,portable solution  as opposed to  a pole/ half pole   / clamp combo.   
thoughts?
 

Use a Manfrotto Magic Arm. 

I ended up with a half pole , articulated arm, superclamp and 1ft goose neck pole.  and a safety  cable  :)


https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/325444-REG/Manfrotto_244N_244N_Variable_Friction_Magic.html
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on September 12, 2016, 01:56:23 AM
 :clapping: On the safety cable.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on September 12, 2016, 12:42:56 PM
trying to clamp to a ceiling rafter with fire protection spray on it

Maybe use a Matthews Matthellini or Cardellini Clamp?  I couldn't say for sure as I've never used the Matthews products myself, but their system is different from your typical superclamp or C-clamp and can generally open much wider.  I think it's a favorite of DigiGal's so you might want to hit her up about particulars. 

The thing that would give me pause about clamping to that particular ceiling rafter is wondering how much the fire protection foam will crumble with force applied to it.  Unlike the rafter itself, the protection foam strikes me as being not very sturdy at all.  Your initial solid grip on it with a clamp would be seriously compromised if the foam starts to crumble.  Is there another structure you can clamp to? 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: if_then_else on September 17, 2016, 04:25:44 AM
Moved from http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=179156.0 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=179156.0):

Speaking as someone who does a lot of clamping, that's a necessity.  For avoiding scuffs, there are some safety cables that come with a vinyl/rubber coating; not as easy to find as the bare ones but they can be had.  Or, if you're feeling industrious, give the bare cables a coating of Plasti Dip (https://plastidip.com/).

I've repurposed some Flexroute cable guides (for bikes) for avoiding scuffs to the Manfrotto Magic Arm.
These cable guides have recessed channels for zip/Cobra ties. The included hard rubber grommet can hold
a split ring to which you can fix your safety cable.

http://www.cobraties.com/cobra-ties/flexroute/

Actually, this idea was inspired by the following photo blog:
http://www.danecreek.com/blog/2013/10/06/peter-read-miller-sports-workshop-gear-part-1.html

^  Just a thank you to i_t_e for the additional ideas, and a thought.  The Flexroute cable guides seem to be an option, but I would be concerned about how secure they are as the attaching band doesn't appear to be a single piece that wraps completely around the extension arms that we use.  In the event of a clamp failure, will the weight of the falling gear (which could be several pounds) cause the safety cable to just yank the Flexroute guide off the bar?  Perhaps I'm not entirely clear on your usage of them, and maybe you'd consider posting a photo of them in action in the "Clamp-aholics" thread?  :)

You'd wrap the zip ties ("Cobra Ties") at least two or three times around the cable guides and fasten them. I have no idea, if they'd hold 110 lbs as stated in the photo blog I had quoted above but I'm pretty sure that 30-40 lbs should be no problem.

Another useful "hack" I found on the net are gaffer tape key chains. (They are a lot easier to carry with you than even MicroGaffer tape rolls. )
These key chains are very easy to build and all you actually need for them are clevis pins, washers and split rings.

http://www.instructables.com/id/Emergency-Duct-Tape-Key-Fob/ (http://www.instructables.com/id/Emergency-Duct-Tape-Key-Fob/)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on September 17, 2016, 01:07:27 PM
^  Some great ideas and hacks, i_t_e, thank you for posting them here in this thread! 

I didn't know that "Cobra Ties" were used to secure the Flexroute guides so that certainly lessens my previous concern.  It does plainly state in the installations instruction that "the Flexroute is not intended for load bearing application" but I'm in agreement that it could probably handle 30-40 pounds, the same as a standard Superclamp.  Plastic ties are pretty tough customers; since law enforcement has no reservations using them periodically as handcuffs, I'd think they're up to snuff for this application.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: capnhook on September 17, 2016, 01:12:35 PM
^  Some great ideas and hacks, i_t_e, thank you for posting them here in this thread! 

I didn't know that "Cobra Ties" were used to secure the Flexroute guides so that certainly lessens my previous concern.  It does plainly state in the installations instruction that "the Flexroute is not intended for load bearing application" but I'm in agreement that it could probably handle 30-40 pounds, the same as a standard Superclamp.  Plastic ties are pretty tough customers; since law enforcement has no reservations using them periodically as handcuffs, I'd think they're up to snuff for this application.

"One word: Plastics"

Good tips y'all, thanks  :coolguy:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: if_then_else on September 18, 2016, 03:14:54 AM
trying to clamp to a ceiling rafter with fire protection spray on it

Maybe use a Matthews Matthellini or Cardellini Clamp?  I couldn't say for sure as I've never used the Matthews products myself, but their system is different from your typical superclamp or C-clamp and can generally open much wider.  I think it's a favorite of DigiGal's so you might want to hit her up about particulars. 

The thing that would give me pause about clamping to that particular ceiling rafter is wondering how much the fire protection foam will crumble with force applied to it.  Unlike the rafter itself, the protection foam strikes me as being not very sturdy at all.  Your initial solid grip on it with a clamp would be seriously compromised if the foam starts to crumble.  Is there another structure you can clamp to?

If you're going for a Cardellini / Matthelini clamp: There are two kinds of these clamps - those with end jaws and those with center jaws.

You either want an "end jaw" clamp that's long enough to do the job or a "center jaw" clamp with one or more "Extendellini" extensions.

Caveat: These clamps are very heavy. Therefore, I definitely wouldn't clamp to an area that's covered with foam but only to the rafter/metal rod on the picture (if anything).
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: lsd2525 on September 21, 2016, 01:27:13 PM
OK, I have a Super Clamp. I'm looking at the 099B. For the life of me, from looking at photos, I cannot tell how the pole attaches to the clamp? Is an adaptor needed?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rigpimp on September 21, 2016, 01:57:16 PM
OK, I have a Super Clamp. I'm looking at the 099B. For the life of me, from looking at photos, I cannot tell how the pole attaches to the clamp? Is an adaptor needed?

Does your superclamp not have the removable/reversible stud?  I believe the 099b mounts to the stud.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61hqA39OP6L._SL1092_.jpg)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: lsd2525 on September 21, 2016, 03:00:13 PM
It (the superclamp) does have the stud. Looking at the photo of the 099B, it looks like it slips over something and then is tightened with a thumb screw????? Not sure how that would work with the stud on the clamp? Or do you flip the stud over where the nut side is sticking up?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rigpimp on September 21, 2016, 03:31:51 PM
It (the superclamp) does have the stud. Looking at the photo of the 099B, it looks like it slips over something and then is tightened with a thumb screw????? Not sure how that would work with the stud on the clamp? Or do you flip the stud over where the nut side is sticking up?

It probably is like the Manfrotto adapter that I have since the top of my Bogen 3373 has an unthreaded stud on the top. 

The 099b slips over that threadless stud on the superclamp and that small thumbscrew at the bottom of the 099b tightens onto the stud holding it in place. 

Ha, I googled how to connect the two and first hit was a thread here at ts.com:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=156731.0
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: lsd2525 on September 21, 2016, 03:36:02 PM
It (the superclamp) does have the stud. Looking at the photo of the 099B, it looks like it slips over something and then is tightened with a thumb screw????? Not sure how that would work with the stud on the clamp? Or do you flip the stud over where the nut side is sticking up?

It probably is like the Manfrotto adapter that I have since the top of my Bogen 3373 has an unthreaded stud on the top. 

The 099b slips over that threadless stud on the superclamp and that small thumbscrew at the bottom of the 099b tightens onto the stud holding it in place. 

Ha, I googled how to connect the two and first hit was a thread here at ts.com:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=156731.0

LOL. You kids and your newfangled googldy goos and stuff:) Thanks!!!

While I'm at it, does anyone use the super clamp to clamp on to someone else's stand or is that overkill? Right angle adaptor?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voltronic on September 21, 2016, 07:34:00 PM
It (the superclamp) does have the stud. Looking at the photo of the 099B, it looks like it slips over something and then is tightened with a thumb screw????? Not sure how that would work with the stud on the clamp? Or do you flip the stud over where the nut side is sticking up?

It probably is like the Manfrotto adapter that I have since the top of my Bogen 3373 has an unthreaded stud on the top. 

The 099b slips over that threadless stud on the superclamp and that small thumbscrew at the bottom of the 099b tightens onto the stud holding it in place. 

Ha, I googled how to connect the two and first hit was a thread here at ts.com:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=156731.0

LOL. You kids and your newfangled googldy goos and stuff:) Thanks!!!

While I'm at it, does anyone use the super clamp to clamp on to someone else's stand or is that overkill? Right angle adaptor?

Not sure if this is what you're looking for, but some of my fellow classical recording people on GS use the 099B as a boom arm along with a Manfrotto 124 clamp (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/302172-REG/Manfrotto_124_124_Clamp_for_3085.html).  You would clamp somewhere towards the middle or top of the largest 099B tube, and would also need a counterweight on the end opposite your mics.  I own a 1004BAC stand and the 099B, but so far have only used them directly atop one another.  My next piece of stand hardware is definitely the 124, which will let me boom out over a conductor's head.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: F.O.Bean on September 21, 2016, 09:18:40 PM
It (the superclamp) does have the stud. Looking at the photo of the 099B, it looks like it slips over something and then is tightened with a thumb screw????? Not sure how that would work with the stud on the clamp? Or do you flip the stud over where the nut side is sticking up?

It probably is like the Manfrotto adapter that I have since the top of my Bogen 3373 has an unthreaded stud on the top. 

The 099b slips over that threadless stud on the superclamp and that small thumbscrew at the bottom of the 099b tightens onto the stud holding it in place. 

Ha, I googled how to connect the two and first hit was a thread here at ts.com:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=156731.0

Exactly 8) I run the Manfrotto SuperClamp/099B combo and you just tighten the base screw of the 099B onto the threadless stud of the Superclamp, just like RigPimp stated ;)

I LOVE the 099B and it goes to about 6'! If you plan on doing a lot of clamping, I also suggest a smaller extension. Either a Lowel Half Pole[what I own] or a Manfrotto equivalent that goes to about 3' at its max! I use the Half Pole a good bit to get in weird places where the 099B would be a bit too big like balcony railings/etc, and also, if I ever needed to go higher than my stands 10' max! I mainly use the 099B setup at Amphitheaters where I can clamp to the back of the SBD rail at places like Blossom/Star Lake/MPP/Lakeview/etc, but also at smaller venues like Stage AE, where I can also clamp to a sturdy/cemented in the ground SBD rail! Its also useful for clamping in between seats in Theaters as well!

That said, I wish I had an end jaw Mathellini clamp or two in my arsenal too. They seem to grip better/tighter and have a much wider jaw than the Superclamp, which would certainly be useful for taping IMO!

And about the Superclamp being overkill for a stand, id say yes! Its too heavy for clamping at the top of a stand IMO, unless you have a monster stand or are extremely well secured wherever you're taping! Add on LDs/SDs and you have a good bit of weight up there! As always, YMMV :)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: lsd2525 on September 22, 2016, 08:09:26 AM
It (the superclamp) does have the stud. Looking at the photo of the 099B, it looks like it slips over something and then is tightened with a thumb screw????? Not sure how that would work with the stud on the clamp? Or do you flip the stud over where the nut side is sticking up?

It probably is like the Manfrotto adapter that I have since the top of my Bogen 3373 has an unthreaded stud on the top. 

The 099b slips over that threadless stud on the superclamp and that small thumbscrew at the bottom of the 099b tightens onto the stud holding it in place. 

Ha, I googled how to connect the two and first hit was a thread here at ts.com:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=156731.0

Exactly 8) I run the Manfrotto SuperClamp/099B combo and you just tighten the base screw of the 099B onto the threadless stud of the Superclamp, just like RigPimp stated ;)

I LOVE the 099B and it goes to about 6'! If you plan on doing a lot of clamping, I also suggest a smaller extension. Either a Lowel Half Pole[what I own] or a Manfrotto equivalent that goes to about 3' at its max! I use the Half Pole a good bit to get in weird places where the 099B would be a bit too big like balcony railings/etc, and also, if I ever needed to go higher than my stands 10' max! I mainly use the 099B setup at Amphitheaters where I can clamp to the back of the SBD rail at places like Blossom/Star Lake/MPP/Lakeview/etc, but also at smaller venues like Stage AE, where I can also clamp to a sturdy/cemented in the ground SBD rail! Its also useful for clamping in between seats in Theaters as well!

That said, I wish I had an end jaw Mathellini clamp or two in my arsenal too. They seem to grip better/tighter and have a much wider jaw than the Superclamp, which would certainly be useful for taping IMO!

And about the Superclamp being overkill for a stand, id say yes! Its too heavy for clamping at the top of a stand IMO, unless you have a monster stand or are extremely well secured wherever you're taping! Add on LDs/SDs and you have a good bit of weight up there! As always, YMMV :)

Bean, you happen to know the part number of that lower extension? And does anyone know of any lower-priced alternatives? What do most people use to clamp onto other peoples stands? There have been times where that would have made more sense than running a second stand
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rigpimp on September 22, 2016, 09:10:38 AM
What do most people use to clamp onto other peoples stands? There have been times where that would have made more sense than running a second stand

To clamp to a stand I use a small Rowi clamp like the one pictured below.  They normally come with a stiff leather case that you can just slide into a pocket on your bag.

(http://images1.americanlisted.com/nlarge/rowi-c-clamp-for-camera-mounting-18-americanlisted_37773377.jpg)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: lsd2525 on September 22, 2016, 09:20:30 AM
Thanks Rigpimp.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on September 22, 2016, 10:52:43 AM
While I'm at it, does anyone use the super clamp to clamp on to someone else's stand or is that overkill? Right angle adaptor?

You could use a superclamp for that but, as you noted, it's kinda overkill and a bit heavy.  I've always been partial to the multi-position C clamps (like the Windtech) (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298908-REG/WindTech_MPC_10_Multi_Position_C_Type_Clamp.html) for clamping to stands.  They're fairly light and compact, secure, and haven't let me down yet, knock on wood. 


Bean, you happen to know the part number of that lower extension? And does anyone know of any lower-priced alternatives? What do most people use to clamp onto other peoples stands? There have been times where that would have made more sense than running a second stand

The shorter Manfrotto extension is the 122B (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/5359-REG/Manfrotto_122B_122B_Adjustable_Pole_for.html).  Impact makes their own version called the LS-3S, which comes with the small base (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/253077-REG/Impact_LS_3S_Two_Section_Back_Light.html).  Having used both, I'd say the Manfrotto has slightly better build quality but the Impact version is more than adequate.  With the base, it's great for stage lip use and, when combined with the 099 extension, makes a nice low-profile small-footprint stand, albeit it's not the sturdiest. 
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on September 22, 2016, 11:38:17 AM
^^^^^^^^^
+1 for the Windtech C clamp. We own 5 of them, quite useful and adaptable. And to clamp an active (or any light weight) mic mount to someone else's stand it works great!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: lsd2525 on September 22, 2016, 01:29:16 PM
OK, on the Windtech C clamp: Description says it "rotates" in 3 directions. Does it actually "rotate" or are there just three different places on the clamp for the stud, depending on how you want to orientate you attachment?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on September 22, 2016, 02:14:42 PM
OK, on the Windtech C clamp: Description says it "rotates" in 3 directions. Does it actually "rotate" or are there just three different places on the clamp for the stud, depending on how you want to orientate you attachment?
The second part of your question is the answer. you can move the stud into three positions. referencing that photo- the pictured position is straight out. you can remove it and point it down or up allowing 3 positions.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: lsd2525 on September 22, 2016, 02:52:16 PM
OK, on the Windtech C clamp: Description says it "rotates" in 3 directions. Does it actually "rotate" or are there just three different places on the clamp for the stud, depending on how you want to orientate you attachment?
The second part of your question is the answer. you can move the stud into three positions. referencing that photo- the pictured position is straight out. you can remove it and point it down or up allowing 3 positions.

Thanks, that's what I thought........they way they used the word "rotate" two or three times had me thinking I was missing something.

Last question and I'll shut up: Any recommendations for a sturdy gooseneck that will attach to a clamp and have the proper threading on the other end for a camera/camcorder?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ScoobieKW on September 22, 2016, 03:01:00 PM
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=354220&gclid=CjwKEAjwgo6_BRC32q6_5s2R-R8SJAB7hTG--SsRZm36S6s_jMpo64APsG_cCjg9NapYOl8ExXClCxoCitzw_wcB&is=REG&ap=y&m=Y&c3api=1876%2C92051677562%2C&Q=&A=details

The Manfrotto magic arm gives you gooseneck level adjustibility with greater precision and rigidity.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: nolamule on September 22, 2016, 04:07:08 PM
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=354220&gclid=CjwKEAjwgo6_BRC32q6_5s2R-R8SJAB7hTG--SsRZm36S6s_jMpo64APsG_cCjg9NapYOl8ExXClCxoCitzw_wcB&is=REG&ap=y&m=Y&c3api=1876%2C92051677562%2C&Q=&A=details

The Manfrotto magic arm gives you gooseneck level adjustibility with greater precision and rigidity.

I have one and love it. Using it tomorrow night at the Tab in Hot'Lanta.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: lsd2525 on September 22, 2016, 04:10:22 PM
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=354220&gclid=CjwKEAjwgo6_BRC32q6_5s2R-R8SJAB7hTG--SsRZm36S6s_jMpo64APsG_cCjg9NapYOl8ExXClCxoCitzw_wcB&is=REG&ap=y&m=Y&c3api=1876%2C92051677562%2C&Q=&A=details

The Manfrotto magic arm gives you gooseneck level adjustibility with greater precision and rigidity.

I have one and love it. Using it tomorrow night at the Tab in Hot'Lanta.

Nola, you using it for mics or vid? Clamping on balcony?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: goodcooker on September 22, 2016, 04:35:28 PM

Don't use a gooseneck for a video camera. It's not stable enough and will bounce making focus impossible.

I use a superclamp and the extension arm when running the camera from my stand. If it is a static shot I screw the camera straight on to the threaded stud. If I'm panning I put a Manfrotto pan and tilt head on the stud and screw the quick release plate from that onto my camera.

I've tried using a Manfrotto articulating arm a few times but it bounces too much if it's clamped on to a balcony rail. Almost all my video using it has turned out unusable from camera shake.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: nolamule on September 22, 2016, 06:14:45 PM
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=354220&gclid=CjwKEAjwgo6_BRC32q6_5s2R-R8SJAB7hTG--SsRZm36S6s_jMpo64APsG_cCjg9NapYOl8ExXClCxoCitzw_wcB&is=REG&ap=y&m=Y&c3api=1876%2C92051677562%2C&Q=&A=details

The Manfrotto magic arm gives you gooseneck level adjustibility with greater precision and rigidity.

I have one and love it. Using it tomorrow night at the Tab in Hot'Lanta.

Nola, you using it for mics or vid? Clamping on balcony?

Mics only on the balcony rail.  :cheers:
Title: Found
Post by: ero3030 on October 22, 2016, 10:30:23 PM
looked harder and found.  Thanks
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: nolamule on January 17, 2017, 04:39:23 PM
OK, on the Windtech C clamp: Description says it "rotates" in 3 directions. Does it actually "rotate" or are there just three different places on the clamp for the stud, depending on how you want to orientate you attachment?

How do you make the connection from the 5/8" thread on the WindTech clamp to a Manfrotto Quick adapter or any other 3/8" thread?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Limit35 on January 17, 2017, 09:25:25 PM
How do you make the connection from the 5/8" thread on the WindTech clamp to a Manfrotto Quick adapter or any other 3/8" thread?

You can use something like this https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1092899-REG/windtech_m_1_5_8_27_female_to.html (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1092899-REG/windtech_m_1_5_8_27_female_to.html)

edit: I haven't found a replacement stud yet.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: nolamule on January 17, 2017, 10:08:30 PM
How do you make the connection from the 5/8" thread on the WindTech clamp to a Manfrotto Quick adapter or any other 3/8" thread?

You can use something like this https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1092899-REG/windtech_m_1_5_8_27_female_to.html (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1092899-REG/windtech_m_1_5_8_27_female_to.html)

edit: I haven't found a replacement stud yet.

bingo thanks!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Limit35 on January 17, 2017, 11:17:49 PM

As soon as I discover a stud I'll let you know. Otherwise you have the round Windtech stud with 5/8> 5/8 to 3/8> t-bar or whatever, three things can loosen up. It's what I use but would rather have a stud to t-bar. Thread seal tape can tighten things up too I suppose.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on January 18, 2017, 01:44:53 AM

As soon as I discover a stud I'll let you know. Otherwise you have the round Windtech stud with 5/8> 5/8 to 3/8> t-bar or whatever, three things can loosen up. It's what I use but would rather have a stud to t-bar. Thread seal tape can tighten things up too I suppose.

I recommend LOCTITE for locking threads on adapters. Here's a breakdown of their color/strengths: http://na.henkel-adhesives.com/industrial/Loctite-Threadlockers-by-Color-14023.htm

And to cross-reference so you can make a more informed decision as to the melting points of aluminum, brass, and steel, which are the three most common things we use as tapers: http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/melting-temperature-metals-d_860.html

I use red for the stuff I know I'll never need to break apart and blue or purple for stuff I may need to break loose at some point.

Nothing sucks more than being out in the field and having a threaded connector come loose 30 seconds before the band hits the stage and having to drop the stand and tighten up the connections under pressure. And as can often be the case in festival situations during the Summer with rain-soaked/sweaty fingers that can be a bitch.

Or even worse, during the actual set if the stand takes a hit or gets nailed by a beach ball. Especially true if you are clamped to someone elses stand or if you have someone(s) clamped to your stand.

My taper-Mantra- eliminate as many points of failure as possible...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Limit35 on January 18, 2017, 11:31:11 PM

Thanks for the links. Drives me nuts when I 'wrench' down on adapters and then look up and see the mics off center, how the fuck did that come loose from raising the stand.  :facepalm: I guess I should just Red Loctite often used combos and keep them in the bag.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on January 19, 2017, 01:14:53 AM

Thanks for the links. Drives me nuts when I 'wrench' down on adapters and then look up and see the mics off center, how the fuck did that come loose from raising the stand.  :facepalm: I guess I should just Red Loctite often used combos and keep them in the bag.

You are very welcome, sir.

(https://static.bhphoto.com/images/images500x500/General_Brand_Microphone_Reducer_Bushing_1320962996000_400109.jpg)




Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on January 19, 2017, 01:39:47 AM
^I'd also like to add that the above bushing/adapter has a slotted portion for a wide, flat-headed screw-driver. Some bushings have them on both sides but most only have them on one side.

Keep the slotted side exposed on whatever gender you are adapting to. All my gear is 5/8"-27 threaded (stupid USA standard thread, but whatever), and I have clamps galore in my rig bag, but you don't ever know...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: aaronji on January 20, 2017, 06:58:05 AM
Loctite is great stuff, but exercise caution with the red!  I wouldn't use it on anything that I hope to separate again in the future; it is REALLY strong.  I tend to use the purple for most purposes and the blue for larger screws.  I have the red, too, but I view that as being a permanent attachment, so I have used it sparingly...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on January 20, 2017, 06:07:28 PM
Loctite is great stuff, but exercise caution with the red!  I wouldn't use it on anything that I hope to separate again in the future; it is REALLY strong.  I tend to use the purple for most purposes and the blue for larger screws.  I have the red, too, but I view that as being a permanent attachment, so I have used it sparingly...

Agreed, hence the link to the various strengths of the products.

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: aaronji on January 23, 2017, 04:33:30 AM
^ My very first experience with Loctite was after reading a tip here, I believe from you, about using an eye bolt into the threaded hole on a SuperClamp as an attachment point for safety cables.  I went to the hardware store with a SuperClamp in hand, and asked the guy if he could cut down some eye bolts for me, and why.  I got a couple, as I often use two clamps for spaced omnis, and the guy said, "You should add some Loctite; it will prevent the bolt from loosening and make your safety system more secure."  Sounded good to me.  He applied some red and sold me the rest of the bottle.  Needless to say, I now have a SuperClamp with a permanently attached eye bolt...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: 2manyrocks on March 06, 2017, 02:44:49 PM
This clamp is specifically made to hold a godox battery (has a hook on the battery) to a light stand, but has 1/4 and 3/8 threaded holes.  http://www.ebay.com/itm/Godox-Q-Type-Battery-Hook-Clamp-Clip-Hook-Mount-F-PB820-PB960-Flash-Battery-pack-/262805808211?hash=item3d30726453:g:dlMAAOSw4DJYgyJD   

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: JiB97 on March 13, 2017, 07:40:51 PM
This clamp is specifically made to hold a godox battery (has a hook on the battery) to a light stand, but has 1/4 and 3/8 threaded holes.  http://www.ebay.com/itm/Godox-Q-Type-Battery-Hook-Clamp-Clip-Hook-Mount-F-PB820-PB960-Flash-Battery-pack-/262805808211?hash=item3d30726453:g:dlMAAOSw4DJYgyJD

nice, looks inexpensive enough to give it a try.  thanks for the link.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: larrysellers on June 09, 2017, 11:05:06 AM
Does anyone have a link to pre-built steel pin safety cables for the Bogen Super clamp?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: nolamule on June 09, 2017, 11:19:14 AM
I use these: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1020057-REG/impact_sc_1815_safety_cable_1_5mm.html

Does anyone have a link to pre-built steel pin safety cables for the Bogen Super clamp?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: larrysellers on June 09, 2017, 11:56:43 AM
Thanks man, that's exactly what I was looking for.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on June 09, 2017, 12:53:06 PM
Thanks man, that's exactly what I was looking for.

https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipN8GVE3eL6EfMgllnzZjcOLGIBTufS5-XiKJjg

https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipNhTcli3OcmmyFJcrM9-N6V3QSr9AaDcdJj0_Q

^Use 1/4-20 eyehooks as tie-off points for your safety cables...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: larrysellers on June 09, 2017, 12:57:06 PM
Las fotos no funcionan
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on June 09, 2017, 01:28:23 PM
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ijckx9ohw22bpa7/DSCN3620.JPG?dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/s/3uihuyvlh08qr44/DSCN3621.JPG?dl=0
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: larrysellers on June 09, 2017, 01:50:20 PM
Home Depot / Lowes for the eyebolts I assume? Thanks everyone.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: larrysellers on June 09, 2017, 01:53:21 PM

https://www.dropbox.com/s/3uihuyvlh08qr44/DSCN3621.JPG?dl=0

I like what you did there with the eyebolt being the tension screw fir the quick release.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: morst on June 09, 2017, 11:28:55 PM
I use these: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1020057-REG/impact_sc_1815_safety_cable_1_5mm.html

Does anyone have a link to pre-built steel pin safety cables for the Bogen Super clamp?

Those Impact SC-1815 are really skinny. B&H's specs list them as having a 22# load capacity, but one of the reviews on their site mentions that the carabiner seems flimsy.

Remember that if something is falling, it will have much more force than just its resting weight.

For less than another dollar, I'd consider this one with a 60# rating, 24" long...
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/689561-REG/American_DJ_SCABLE_60_S_Cable_60_Pro_Lighting_Safety.html

 (https://static.bhphoto.com/images/images500x500/American_DJ_SCABLE_60_S_Cable_60_Pro_Lighting_Safety_1384465697000_689561.jpg)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: dactylus on June 10, 2017, 08:52:20 AM
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ijckx9ohw22bpa7/DSCN3620.JPG?dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/s/3uihuyvlh08qr44/DSCN3621.JPG?dl=0

Thanks Tim!
 :coolguy:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: dactylus on June 10, 2017, 08:53:37 AM
I use these: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1020057-REG/impact_sc_1815_safety_cable_1_5mm.html

Does anyone have a link to pre-built steel pin safety cables for the Bogen Super clamp?

Those Impact SC-1815 are really skinny. B&H's specs list them as having a 22# load capacity, but one of the reviews on their site mentions that the carabiner seems flimsy.

Remember that if something is falling, it will have much more force than just its resting weight.

For less than another dollar, I'd consider this one with a 60# rating, 24" long...
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/689561-REG/American_DJ_SCABLE_60_S_Cable_60_Pro_Lighting_Safety.html


Thanks morst!
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on June 11, 2017, 12:00:50 AM
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ijckx9ohw22bpa7/DSCN3620.JPG?dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/s/3uihuyvlh08qr44/DSCN3621.JPG?dl=0

Thanks Tim!
 :coolguy:

No problemo, man. That's what this message board is all about, IMHO. The more info we share, the better the tapes we ALL make and easier, and more safely...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Chris K on September 28, 2017, 11:09:04 AM
This thread should be a sticky...I know I refer to it all the time...anyone else's?

God forbid it be on page 2.

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voltronic on September 28, 2017, 06:14:23 PM
Any recommendations for a relatively lightweight and inexpensive camera clamp for wide railings, such as those found in football stands?  The ubiquitous SuperClamp definitely works, but I'm already using two of those for my split omnis when I'm recording marching bands.  While I could easily add a third for my camera in the middle (really just my phone with a tripod adapter), another one of those seems like overkill to just support a cell phone.  Thoughts?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: mnm207 on September 29, 2017, 07:16:56 AM
How wide do you need the jaws to open?

A Joby Gorillapod isn't a clamp but comes in sizes to support most cameras. A small one would easily support an iPhone.

Pedco makes a couple of small table top tripods; the mini size has a velcro wrap for placing it on poles or fencing.

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: if_then_else on September 29, 2017, 07:58:22 AM
Any recommendations for a relatively lightweight and inexpensive camera clamp for wide railings, such as those found in football stands?  The ubiquitous SuperClamp definitely works, but I'm already using two of those for my split omnis when I'm recording marching bands.  While I could easily add a third for my camera in the middle (really just my phone with a tripod adapter), another one of those seems like overkill to just support a cell phone.  Thoughts?

These small clamps are marketed under different names and are available from different "brands" (although I'm convinced they're actually identical). I've got two of them to mount my Sony PCM-M10s to the Manfrotto 099b extension and they're of decent quality.
The details for max. opening vary from 2.16" to 2.4", so I'm not sure which size is correct.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0062U2M4E?psc=1&smid=A22PRX6WI8E2K6 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0062U2M4E?psc=1&smid=A22PRX6WI8E2K6)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gutbucket on September 29, 2017, 09:09:09 AM
I recommend LOCTITE for locking threads on adapters. Here's a breakdown of their color/strengths: http://na.henkel-adhesives.com/industrial/Loctite-Threadlockers-by-Color-14023.htm

I use red for the stuff I know I'll never need to break apart and blue or purple for stuff I may need to break loose at some point.

^ My very first experience with Loctite was after reading a tip here, I believe from you, about using an eye bolt into the threaded hole on a SuperClamp as an attachment point for safety cables.  I went to the hardware store with a SuperClamp in hand, and asked the guy if he could cut down some eye bolts for me, and why.  I got a couple, as I often use two clamps for spaced omnis, and the guy said, "You should add some Loctite; it will prevent the bolt from loosening and make your safety system more secure."  Sounded good to me.  He applied some red and sold me the rest of the bottle.  Needless to say, I now have a SuperClamp with a permanently attached eye bolt...

We use a lot of Loctite Red at work for securing stainless bolts in drilled/tapped holes in aluminum parts.  I warn customers not to try and remove these bolts by brute force, as they will often end up shearing the bolt off before the thread-locking compound gives way.  It is then near-impossible to successfully extract the remainder of the stainless bolt from the softer aluminum without destroying the part.

The key to successful disassembly of parts secured with Loctite Red is to heat the area (if even just the head of the bolt if heat would damage the finish of the threaded base material) with something like a propane torch prior to applying torque to remove the fastener.  The heat breaks down the thread-locking compound allowing the bolt to be loosened with far less torque.

We use Red because these applications are subjected to repeated reciprocal motion which would otherwise loosen the bolt over time and there is no other good way to mechanically lock the bolts in place securely.  Best to use the less aggressive formulations for assemblies which will need to be disassembled at some point, which should be entirely sufficient for most applications except those subjected to on-going repeated reciprocal motion or extreme vibration.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: voltronic on September 29, 2017, 08:19:39 PM
How wide do you need the jaws to open?

A Joby Gorillapod isn't a clamp but comes in sizes to support most cameras. A small one would easily support an iPhone.

Pedco makes a couple of small table top tripods; the mini size has a velcro wrap for placing it on poles or fencing.

It varies, but the largest bars I clamp onto are close to the limit of the SuperClamp, about 2" diameter.

I used to use a Joby VideoPod for this (smaller version with magnetic feet and pan head) but one of the ball & socket joints let go.  Maybe I'll look into one of the full-size Gorillapods that should be more robust.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on September 29, 2017, 09:51:19 PM
I recommend LOCTITE for locking threads on adapters. Here's a breakdown of their color/strengths: http://na.henkel-adhesives.com/industrial/Loctite-Threadlockers-by-Color-14023.htm

I use red for the stuff I know I'll never need to break apart and blue or purple for stuff I may need to break loose at some point.

^ My very first experience with Loctite was after reading a tip here, I believe from you, about using an eye bolt into the threaded hole on a SuperClamp as an attachment point for safety cables.  I went to the hardware store with a SuperClamp in hand, and asked the guy if he could cut down some eye bolts for me, and why.  I got a couple, as I often use two clamps for spaced omnis, and the guy said, "You should add some Loctite; it will prevent the bolt from loosening and make your safety system more secure."  Sounded good to me.  He applied some red and sold me the rest of the bottle.  Needless to say, I now have a SuperClamp with a permanently attached eye bolt...

We use a lot of Loctite Red at work for securing stainless bolts in drilled/tapped holes in aluminum parts.  I warn customers not to try and remove these bolts by brute force, as they will often end up shearing the bolt off before the thread-locking compound gives way.  It is then near-impossible to successfully extract the remainder of the stainless bolt from the softer aluminum without destroying the part.

The key to successful disassembly of parts secured with Loctite Red is to heat the area (if even just the head of the bolt if heat would damage the finish of the threaded base material) with something like a propane torch prior to applying torque to remove the fastener.  The heat breaks down the thread-locking compound allowing the bolt to be loosened with far less torque.

We use Red because these applications are subjected to repeated reciprocal motion which would otherwise loosen the bolt over time and there is no other good way to mechanically lock the bolts in place securely.  Best to use the less aggressive formulations for assemblies which will need to be disassembled at some point, which should be entirely sufficient for most applications except those subjected to on-going repeated reciprocal motion or extreme vibration.

Hey, Gut. Where does superglue AKA cyanoacrylate fall on this spectrum?  Any idea?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: aaronji on October 05, 2017, 06:51:03 AM
^^^ Thanks, Gutbucket!  That's very useful information, as I still have that bottle of Red but have been hesitant to use it due to it's strength.  Maybe I will want to remove that eye bolt at some point, too!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on March 05, 2018, 12:25:11 AM
Over the years I've seen quite a few folks ask about a replacement stud for the WindTech clamp that so many of us use.

Good news! I finally found out that WindTech does indeed offer just the stud. Just Google WindTech M-21.

http://www.windtech.tv/Adapters.php <-it's at the very bottom of the page...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: goodcooker on March 05, 2018, 12:36:59 AM
Over the years I've seen quite a few folks ask about a replacement stud for the WindTech clamp that so many of us use.

Good news! I finally found out that WindTech does indeed offer just the stud. Just Google WindTech M-21.

http://www.windtech.tv/Adapters.php <-it's at the very bottom of the page...

They have been so hard to find that I thought about manufacturing them a few years ago - I bet a lot of folks have studless Windtech C clamps out there...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: mfrench on March 05, 2018, 10:31:48 AM
Not enough good can be said; Manfrotto Mini-Clamp
(https://www.adorama.com/images/large/BG2941.jpg)

In constant use. My Superclamp, not so much.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: ycoop on March 05, 2018, 06:19:52 PM
I’m looking for a clamp that will allow me to attach a DR-40 to the middle of (someone else’s) rig while also allowing it to lie flat and keep the internal mics on the same horizontal plane. DR-40 has standard 1/4” threads. Saw some clamps that looked good but wouldn’t allow for the recorder to lie flat. Anyone have input?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: mnm207 on March 06, 2018, 09:01:02 AM
I’m looking for a clamp that will allow me to attach a DR-40 to the middle of (someone else’s) rig while also allowing it to lie flat and keep the internal mics on the same horizontal plane. DR-40 has standard 1/4” threads. Saw some clamps that looked good but wouldn’t allow for the recorder to lie flat. Anyone have input?

You might look at something like these:
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/904449-REG/High_Sierra_M2_Clampette.html (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/904449-REG/High_Sierra_M2_Clampette.html)
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/560799-REG/Ultrapod_PD04020_UltraClamp_Aluminum_Support_Clamp.html (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/560799-REG/Ultrapod_PD04020_UltraClamp_Aluminum_Support_Clamp.html) Also available with a mini articulating arm.

The Manfrotto Mini-Clamp linked to in the post above yours is also a good bet.

All three should mount well enough to a rig based on square, round or flat bars.

My experience with the three clamps above is for holding lights and cameras. They'd do just fine holding a DR40 and wouldn't add much weight to a rig.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: capnhook on March 06, 2018, 10:35:37 AM
Over the years I've seen quite a few folks ask about a replacement stud for the WindTech clamp that so many of us use.

Good news! I finally found out that WindTech does indeed offer just the stud. Just Google WindTech M-21.

http://www.windtech.tv/Adapters.php <-it's at the very bottom of the page...

Thanks for this link Tim.  A lot of great stuff here, even the painter-pole adapter, what a great idea.

I thought they would have what I was looking for.....but nope.

I can't find a 5/8" stud spigot adapter for the Windtech clamp.

Is there such an animal?

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Ronmac on March 06, 2018, 11:17:09 AM
I’m looking for a clamp that will allow me to attach a DR-40 to the middle of (someone else’s) rig while also allowing it to lie flat and keep the internal mics on the same horizontal plane. DR-40 has standard 1/4” threads. Saw some clamps that looked good but wouldn’t allow for the recorder to lie flat. Anyone have input?

This combo will work:

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/824360-REG/impact_cc_106r_super_clamp_with_ratchet.html

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/850307-REG/impact_bhe_106_ext_arm_6_with.html/pageID/accessory
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on March 06, 2018, 11:35:27 AM
Over the years I've seen quite a few folks ask about a replacement stud for the WindTech clamp that so many of us use.

Good news! I finally found out that WindTech does indeed offer just the stud. Just Google WindTech M-21.

http://www.windtech.tv/Adapters.php <-it's at the very bottom of the page...

Thanks for this link Tim.  A lot of great stuff here, even the painter-pole adapter, what a great idea.

I thought they would have what I was looking for.....but nope.

I can't find a 5/8" stud spigot adapter for the Windtech clamp.

Is there such an animal?
That stud IS on their site. but no link provided- Scroll ALL the Way DOWN and on the Right IS:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: capnhook on March 06, 2018, 12:13:33 PM
Sorry for the confusion...I'm not looking for a 5/8"-27 threaded end.

A standard 5/8" spigot, with or without a 1/4"-20 stud on top >>>> 0.45" Spigot to fit into the Windtech clamp's 0.47" holes....I haven't been able to find.


Like this, but to fit into a Windtech clamp.

https://tinyurl.com/y82fr5n7



Easy part to make on a lathe.  Does anyone here turn parts?


Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on March 06, 2018, 12:32:38 PM
Sorry for the confusion...I'm not looking for a 5/8"-27 threaded end.

A standard 5/8" spigot, with or without a 1/4"-20 stud on top >>>> 0.45" Spigot to fit into the Windtech clamp's 0.47" holes....I haven't been able to find.


Like this, but to fit into a Windtech clamp.

https://tinyurl.com/y82fr5n7



Easy part to make on a lathe.  Does anyone here turn parts?
Ah. Sorry to add to confusion! That e-bay listing does look like a useful adapter. I recently picked up a bunch of Manfrotto adapters from B&H- maybe peruse their accessory pages: (I know some do not like B&H-any of those parts should be locatable on other sites.)
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/Thread-Adapters-Fittings/ci/14722/N/3681064844
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/Adapters-Brackets/ci/15906/N/4232861030
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gutbucket on March 06, 2018, 03:39:53 PM
I’m looking for a clamp that will allow me to attach a DR-40 to the middle of (someone else’s) rig while also allowing it to lie flat and keep the internal mics on the same horizontal plane. DR-40 has standard 1/4” threads. Saw some clamps that looked good but wouldn’t allow for the recorder to lie flat. Anyone have input?

This could work nicely, assuming the spring-clamp and articulated arm can support the weight of a DR-40.  Designed for cameras so it should.
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/887899-REG/Dinkum_3006_Action_Pod.html (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/887899-REG/Dinkum_3006_Action_Pod.html)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jadedphan on March 20, 2018, 09:27:47 PM
Hey now,

I had some questions about the setup in the picture at the link below. There were several tapers at the trey acoustic show I did using the same setup.

> https://plus.google.com/u/0/photos/114775014104918758740/albums/5667528821496032545 

2 questions:

1) what type of clamp is holding the extension bar?
2) what, exactly, is the extension bar? Is it homemade, or purchased?

Thanks in advance,
-bry

Photos: https://plus.google.com/u/0/photos/114775014104918758740/albums/5667528821496032545  <- let me know if the link works. Google photos still baffles me at times.
Results: http://www.archive.org/details/rre2011-10-06.mk4v.din.flac16

Have fun, reply, and share your wisdom.

ETA: added links so they appear on 1st post...

clamp cap screw replacement (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=30005.0)
Best clamp for theater seat arms (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=150670.0)
Clamping to Balcony Handrail (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=149191.0)
Need help with Clamp and extension pole (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=145055.0)
Innovative Set-Ups (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=145466.msg1871807#msg1871807)
My Versatile Extension Pole - With Pics  (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=110425.0)
Balcony Clamp Question (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=124788.0)
Clamps - weights (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=122917.msg1637491#msg1637491)
clamps for a thick beam? (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=131879.msg1731964#msg1731964)
POLL: How many clamps do you own? (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=129949.0)
newbie to clamps needs assistance please (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=130361.msg1718300#msg1718300)
Help With Balcony Clamping (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=103678.0)
clamps (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=2456.0)
ISO stand accessory-- do you know of one? (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=150309.0)
Rowi Ballheads for clamps (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=152384.0)
Homemade clamps and hangers (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=135654)
Clamping at Red Rocks' FOH rail (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=158179)
Photos of Safety Cable in use (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=154079.msg1949156#msg1949156) <-- Links back to this thread, but thought I'd add it anyhow...
Clamp help! (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=161596.msg2031158#msg2031158)
First time clamping from a balcony (sorry pictures are kind of dark) (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=163695.msg2051070#msg2051070)
Windtech clamp question (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=165687.0)
super clamp handle threading? (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=174610.0)
Using an endless ratchet strap for securing a stand (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=181676.msg2223360#msg2223360)
[/quote]
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: vanark on March 20, 2018, 09:55:10 PM
Looks like a superclamp with a short extension pole. Can't tell which extension pole.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jcable77 on March 20, 2018, 10:08:28 PM
Might be the Matthews “12 or 16” baby extension
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33142-REG/Matthews_426016_Baby_Stand_Extension.html
And a chrome super clamp. Just guessing.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on March 21, 2018, 12:26:38 AM
Might be the Matthews “12 or 16” baby extension
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33142-REG/Matthews_426016_Baby_Stand_Extension.html
And a chrome super clamp. Just guessing.

My photo. Bogen/Manfrotto  Superclamp. Black, not chrome, just a shitty phone pic. 

Extension bar is a Photek that I picked up used @ a local photo store for about 10 bucks 20+ years ago. Each end has a 5/8" brass stud that fits the Superclamp.

One end has a 1/4" thread and the other a 3/8" thread.  I use a: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546490-REG/Manfrotto_014_38_014_38_Rapid_Adapter.html?sts=pi and 3/8">5/8" adapter to fit my shock mount...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on March 23, 2018, 05:09:18 PM
After doing some research in old threads, I'm thinking about getting a Matthews Matthellini clamp: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/161307-REG/Matthews_420110_Matthellini_Clamp_2.html

I'd envision using it primarily on the rail at Red Rocks or drink rails in clubs.  Does anyone have experience with a Matthellini (or Cardllini) they can share?

Also, will pretty much any of the Matthews/Manfrotto extension poles work with the Matthellini?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on March 23, 2018, 05:36:23 PM
After doing some research in old threads, I'm thinking about getting a Matthews Matthellini clamp: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/161307-REG/Matthews_420110_Matthellini_Clamp_2.html

I'd envision using it primarily on the rail at Red Rocks or drink rails in clubs.  Does anyone have experience with a Matthellini (or Cardllini) they can share?

Also, will pretty much any of the Matthews/Manfrotto extension poles work with the Matthellini?

That thing built like a tank. It has a 5/8" male stud so it will accommodate either of the extension poles you mention.

Only issue is it was primarily designed to clamp to round bars/tubes. Don't know if I'd trust it on a flat surface unless I was running just actives sans extension pole...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on March 23, 2018, 05:40:48 PM
Don't know if I'd trust it on a flat surface unless I was running just actives sans extension pole...

It looks pretty sturdy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdwtYJokkHc

But of course I'd like to hear anyone's first-hand experience with it.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on March 23, 2018, 05:53:41 PM
Don't know if I'd trust it on a flat surface unless I was running just actives sans extension pole...

It looks pretty sturdy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdwtYJokkHc

But of course I'd like to hear anyone's first-hand experience with it.

I've used it plenty of times to clamp to rails and flat surfaces. Clamping to flat surfaces always made me a bit nervous. I prefer flat jaws, but that is personal preference...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on March 23, 2018, 06:06:53 PM
I've used it plenty of times to clamp to rails and flat surfaces. Clamping to flat surfaces always made me a bit nervous. I prefer flat jaws, but that is personal preference...

Oh sorry I didn't realize you'd used one.  So were you able to make it work on a flat surface with extension pole?  How sketchy was it?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: mfrench on March 23, 2018, 06:27:54 PM
Do they have wedge inserts available?

Sorry I can't answer directly, shy of playing with one at a H.wood Rigging/Sound/Vid supply.
But I am left with this,...
I like the look of parallel jaws. Those square, parallel, flange edges to the jaws ought to give a better grip than the SuperClamps. Those parallel jaws are a huge advantage there.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: mnm207 on March 23, 2018, 09:50:21 PM
I've got one of those Matthellini clamps. It'll clamp to a flat surface and hold a good bit of weight. A couple of mics on an extension arm shouldn't phase it. I'd be cautious  putting too much torque on it when clamped to a flat surface, for instance using that extension arm as a boom.  I use mine for rigging strobes.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: if_then_else on March 23, 2018, 11:38:20 PM
I can also confirm that it works great with flat surfaces.

Clamped a couple of times to bars/counters, tables, poles, lighting rails, stage lip (of var. dimensions) and never had a problem.
I'd only worry if a surface (like a bar/counter) was **not** perfectly flat but cone-shaped. But, in such a situation,, some wedges won't help you, either.

Make sure to get a Manfrotto swivel adapter (or equivalent), too - unless you already own one.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on April 23, 2018, 01:02:00 PM
At a local venue one of the best spots to set up mics would be on a column that's nearly DFC and close to the stage, but setting up a stand there will not work because of the amount of traffic and people.  Some of us were talking about clamping to the column.  It's a rectangular column, I'd estimate 6" x 8".  Anyone have recommendations?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: if_then_else on April 23, 2018, 01:39:34 PM
At a local venue one of the best spots to set up mics would be on a column that's nearly DFC and close to the stage, but setting up a stand there will not work because of the amount of traffic and people.  Some of us were talking about clamping to the column.  It's a rectangular column, I'd estimate 6" x 8".  Anyone have recommendations?


Matthellini center jaw clamp + Extendellini extension.
(The extension cannot be used with end jaw clamps.)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on April 23, 2018, 01:49:54 PM
Heathen, this is a medium sized wood clamp attached to this 8-10 inch square column; then you can clamp to the clamp with just about anything!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on April 23, 2018, 01:54:05 PM
That's perfect.  What part of the wood clamp are you attaching to?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on April 23, 2018, 02:15:14 PM
That's perfect.  What part of the wood clamp are you attaching to?
in that picture the Windtech clamp is attached to the handle of the wood clamp! I typically try to attach to the long metal end.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on April 23, 2018, 02:18:38 PM
The long metal part looks sort of thin...are you able to get a good grip on it with the Windtech?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on April 23, 2018, 02:51:23 PM
The long metal part looks sort of thin...are you able to get a good grip on it with the Windtech?

Oh ye of little faith:    :bigsmile:    admittedly these are actives but..... see the first photo above thread for how strong this thing is

Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: mfrench on April 23, 2018, 04:23:55 PM
bonus points for clamping to the clamps.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gutbucket on April 23, 2018, 04:48:35 PM
bonus points for clamping to clamps.

+Ts
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gutbucket on April 23, 2018, 04:48:45 PM
Sometimes the best clamp is no clamp.

I've started column clamping without using a clamp, running a heavy-duty velcro strap (or 2) around a column which looks like the one Rocksuitcase posted a photo of above.

The velcro strap material is 1-3/4 wide, cut from a big roll similar to gaff-tape. It has hooks on one side, loops on the other, so can stick to itself at any length.  I have two 5' or so lengths of it which roll up compactly in the bag without weight penalty and any worry of nicking anything in the bag.  They now cohabitate in there all the time.

I use them to strap either my entire mini-stand to the column (going around both the column and stand, with the stand legs folded up), or just the mic-bar and threaded extension long enough to get a good secure strap around, which is considerably smaller than the Manfrotto stand, depending on the situation. 

Excess strap length just gets wrapped around an extra time or two.  I pass the mic cables through the last wrap as strain-relief and to keep the cables tight to the column. The velcro holds securely, is easily adjusted, doesn't mar the surface or damage anything, and the entire rig goes up really fast.  That limits time standing on chairs fixing clamps and disrupting the goings on, keeping things smooth with venue owners and staff and remaining low-key and off-radar for the most part with the other patrons.

Also works for securing a stand to a fence, railing or whatever.  In that case it secures things from wobbling or toppling, but is not rigidly "rotation locking" like a clamp unless both straps are used with a foot or two of spacing between them.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jcable77 on April 23, 2018, 07:55:26 PM
Sometimes the best clamp is no clamp.

I've started column clamping without using a clamp, running a heavy-duty velcro strap (or 2) around a column which looks like the one Rocksuitcase posted a photo of above.

The velcro strap material is 1-3/4 wide, cut from a big roll similar to gaff-tape. It has hooks on one side, loops on the other, so can stick to itself at any length.  I have two 5' or so lengths of it which roll up compactly in the bag without weight penalty and any worry of nicking anything in the bag.  They now cohabitate in there all the time.

I use them to strap either my entire mini-stand to the column (going around both the column and stand, with the stand legs folded up), or just the mic-bar and threaded extension long enough to get a good secure strap around, which is considerably smaller than the Manfrotto stand, depending on the situation. 

Excess strap length just gets wrapped around an extra time or two.  I pass the mic cables through the last wrap as strain-relief and to keep the cables tight to the column. The velcro holds securely, is easily adjusted, doesn't mar the surface or damage anything, and the entire rig goes up really fast.  That limits time standing on chairs fixing clamps and disrupting the goings on, keeping things smooth with venue owners and staff and remaining low-key and off-radar for the most part with the other patrons.

Also works for securing a stand to a fence, railing or whatever.  In that case it secures things from wobbling or toppling, but is not rigidly "rotation locking" like a clamp unless both straps are used with a foot or two of spacing between them.
I just picket up these uline velcro straps at Ace hardware the other day, they worked great. Got a few different sizes.
https://m.uline.com/h5/r/www.uline.com/BL_6602/Velcro-Brand-Cinch-Straps

The picture in this archive link you can see them in use.
https://archive.org/details/BT2018-04-19
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on May 12, 2018, 11:52:04 AM
I tried the Gutbucket method of lashing my stand to the column.  It worked reasonably well, but the stand was still exposed to the tide of stumbling wooks.  At least at this venue, I'll get a proper wood clamp and try that method next time (you can see a rig behind mine using the wood clamp method).
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: thespacefish on May 12, 2018, 12:28:00 PM
I tried the Gutbucket method of lashing my stand to the column.  It worked reasonably well, but the stand was still exposed to the tide of stumbling wooks.  At least at this venue, I'll get a proper wood clamp and try that method next time (you can see a rig behind mine using the wood clamp method).
Interesting - thanks for always taking a pic and sharing! Did no one run a stand last night?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on May 12, 2018, 12:41:22 PM
Here's the best I can remember (names are to the best of my recollection...I met all these guys for the first time last night):


I know there were more people recording but that's the best I can do from memory.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jcable77 on May 12, 2018, 02:04:49 PM
Very happy. Good looking out CO crew. Cant lie I was a little stressed about my decision to not fly out.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: morst on May 12, 2018, 05:52:19 PM
I tried the Gutbucket method of lashing my stand to the column.  It worked reasonably well, but the stand was still exposed to the tide of stumbling wooks.  At least at this venue, I'll get a proper wood clamp and try that method next time (you can see a rig behind mine using the wood clamp method).
What venue is that? Who was playing?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on May 12, 2018, 06:18:27 PM
What venue is that? Who was playing?
Be On Key Psychedelic Ripple in Denver.  A great little deadhead venue. This show was Garaj Mahal.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on May 12, 2018, 07:32:04 PM
What venue is that? Who was playing?
Be On Key Psychedelic Ripple in Denver.  A great little deadhead venue. This show was Garaj Mahal.

Please post a link! Love Fareed/Garaj...
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on May 13, 2018, 05:31:52 AM
What venue is that? Who was playing?
Be On Key Psychedelic Ripple in Denver.  A great little deadhead venue. This show was Garaj Mahal.

Please post a link! Love Fareed/Garaj...
I will, it just might take a few days. Just got back from seeing them in Nederland.

Bringing this back on topic, tonight I tied my stand to the soundboard cage using those flexible plastic coated wire things on the upper part of the railing and using my hoodie to tie it to the lower part of the railing.  You know what they say, "if it's stupid but it works, it isn't stupid."
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gutbucket on May 16, 2018, 10:24:19 AM
flexible plastic coated wire things

I use one of these far more often than the straps.  The one I have is dense foam covered and a bit heavier duty than the rubbery plastic coated style. Used to have two and wish I could find the other one.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on May 16, 2018, 10:54:39 AM
These are the ones I've been using: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Nite-Ize-18-in-Gear-Tie-in-Bright-Orange-2-Pack-GT18-2PK-31/203210990

I picked up a couple more the other day because they have come in handy so often.  I also use them to tie my stand to the railing at Red Rocks.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: dactylus on May 16, 2018, 11:02:24 AM
These are the ones I've been using: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Nite-Ize-18-in-Gear-Tie-in-Bright-Orange-2-Pack-GT18-2PK-31/203210990

I picked up a couple more the other day because they have come in handy so often.  I also use them to tie my stand to the railing at Red Rocks.

^Thanks for the link!
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on May 16, 2018, 11:08:52 AM
I think I have two 18" and picked up two 24" the other day.  The 18s were great for the most part but I figured it wouldn't hurt to get a couple with a bit more reach just in case.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: mfrench on May 20, 2018, 12:19:02 PM
Classical clamping, from last night.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on May 28, 2018, 01:43:58 AM
When do I get my clamp-aholic merit badge?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: goodcooker on May 28, 2018, 09:05:03 AM
When do I get my clamp-aholic merit badge?

After you add another pair of mics to that and snake it through a balcony guard rail  - with a safety lanyard attached - with your cables running back to your third row seat.... :yack:
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: larrysellers on May 28, 2018, 09:15:11 AM
After watching Edtyre snap a windtech in two pieces, I get a little nauscious when I see one supporting just about anything.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: goodcooker on May 28, 2018, 12:16:37 PM
After watching Edtyre snap a windtech in two pieces, I get a little nauscious when I see one supporting just about anything.

I use one to clamp my MK41/Vark bar/A20 setup to my stand and sometimes to my extension pole.

Never worried too much about just an active setup or one pair of full body mics on it.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: larrysellers on May 28, 2018, 03:52:16 PM
After watching Edtyre snap a windtech in two pieces, I get a little nauscious when I see one supporting just about anything.

I use one to clamp my MK41/Vark bar/A20 setup to my stand and sometimes to my extension pole.

Never worried too much about just an active setup or one pair of full body mics on it.

If It works for you and you're comfortable with it, go for it. I threw mine in the tool box after seeing one break like that.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: heathen on May 28, 2018, 04:35:34 PM
What's an alternative you'd suggest?
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: larrysellers on May 28, 2018, 04:42:22 PM
You can't beat a Superclamp, IMO.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: JiB97 on May 28, 2018, 09:56:52 PM
just snagged a superclamp off of eBay for $15 shipped. glad to finally add it to my arsenal
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jcable77 on May 28, 2018, 11:26:05 PM
What's an alternative you'd suggest?
The rowi 76 is solid as well.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: jcable77 on May 28, 2018, 11:27:59 PM
And its adjustable compared to the windtech.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: morst on May 30, 2018, 01:10:27 AM
I believe all Rowi clamps are discontinued. Welcome to the resale market.

What's an alternative you'd suggest?
The rowi 76 is solid as well.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on May 30, 2018, 07:54:23 AM
And its adjustable compared to the windtech.
adjustable compared to what? What parameters are you adjusting? Pardon me, but the Windtech is in use and has been used by many tapers in many situations and one anectdote about one breaking doesn't "scare" me from using it. A wee bit of caution after hearing that tale, however claiming the Windtech C clamp is not adjustable is bogus.
I own both the Windtech and the Manfrotto superclamp-IMO, the Windtech is much more versatile, ymmv of course.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: larrysellers on May 30, 2018, 08:10:01 AM
All Rowi clamps have a built in ball head.

And its adjustable compared to the windtech.
adjustable compared to what? What parameters are you adjusting? Pardon me, but the Windtech is in use and has been used by many tapers in many situations and one anectdote about one breaking doesn't "scare" me from using it. A wee bit of caution after hearing that tale, however claiming the Windtech C clamp is not adjustable is bogus.
I own both the Windtech and the Manfrotto superclamp-IMO, the Windtech is much more versatile, ymmv of course.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: Gordon on May 30, 2018, 08:11:54 AM
the rowi has a ball head so you can adjust a lot more than a windtech.  with a windtech you can have the stud horizontal or vertical.  a rowi can do everything in between which comes in very handy when there are multiple sets of mics clamped etc.  also smaller and lighter.  since getting one my windtech is only used for the gakbrella.
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: rocksuitcase on May 30, 2018, 10:26:25 AM
the rowi has a ball head so you can adjust a lot more than a windtech.  with a windtech you can have the stud horizontal or vertical.  a rowi can do everything in between which comes in very handy when there are multiple sets of mics clamped etc.  also smaller and lighter.  since getting one my windtech is only used for the gakbrella.
pardon my not going back through the thread (doh!) - from  earlier parts of this thread, I was thinking the comparison was Windetch C vs manfrotto super clamp.
carry on :-)
Title: Re: Clamp-aholics. The ultimate clamping and rigging team thread
Post by: tim in jersey on June 11, 2018, 01:19:48 AM
25 page limit. Thread locked. Part 2: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=186751.0