JonyJib Remote Zoom Controller Adaptor for EX1/3

JonyJib Remote Zoom
Controller Adaptor for EX1/3
(Created 19 October 2008: Updated 30 October 2008)
By Guy Barwood - Glass Eye View
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The Background:

When the EX1 was 'announced' there were a few images around showing the EX1 in various uses as a prototype. One of these images showed the EX1 with a standard professional lens zoom controller connected by what appeared to be an adaptor cable. This seemed great, I would be able to continue to use the same zoom controller I had recently purchased for my now sold JVC DV501 camera with Canon lens (the JVC controller supports both Canon and Fujinon lens which makes it a great option).

On release no such adaptor was announced or listed or future release and the EX1 had a proprietary remote control connector. At that time I contacted VariZoom and asked about the possibility of such an adaptor being release and I was told an adaptor was in development and to check back in a few months. A few months pasted, so I checked back only to be told that the adaptor was no longer being developed and would never be made. Disappointed, I went out an purchased a new remote controller for my EX1 (a VariZoom VZ PG-EX). I guess that is why the cable was never made... Unfortunately I have never been totally happy with the Varizoom controller. The zoom starts to fast in too small a movement of the rocker making it very difficult to achieve a start a smooth crawl zoom compared to my JVC HZ-ZS13U. The toggle switch feels a bit light as well, I am always worried about accidentally bumping it, you could almost breath on it an it would start/stop (ok so that's an exaggeration but you get the point).

The Now

Well over 6 months have passed now and suddenly I see this adaptor cable for sale by JonyJib which claims to be able to adapt a standard professional Fujinon or Canon lens controller for the EX1/3 (there is one adaptor for each lens manufacturer). The are US$80 + shipping (which they quoted a very fair amount for) . After a few quick emails with John Huffman at JonyJib and a paypal transfer I was told it would be on its way ASAP. That was on the weekend. Today (Wednesday, 4 days later), it arrives in Australia. That's fast. That's service.

Here it is, the JonyJib adaptor. This specific one is if for Fujinon lens (with the EX lens being Fujinon it seems the better choice as my controller supports both Fujinon and Canon with the flick of a switch)

Close up of the label.

It is a very well made piece of kit, it certainly doesn't feel weak and flimsy in any way. I connected it all up and presto, everything works great. Even the return button on the controller gets the last clip playing just like it should. A big shout out to JonyJib for putting together what Sony & crew should have done from the start.

Here is it attached to my JVC HZ-ZS13U

Summary:

I have heard a many people comment they would have to factor in the need for yet another expensive zoom controller when deciding whether or not to go the EX route. While this may not convert a LANC controller it does open up the box to a whole range of other controller options. I purchased my JVC controller of eBay second hand for about half what I had to pay for the Varizoom. Add the cost of the adaptor and you are still well less than the Varizoom and you have a controller which is compatible with many more cameras than any of the remotes designed specifically for the EX and in my opinion works better.

Anyone want to buy a slightly used Varizoom VZ PG-EX? (email me!) US$400...

For Sale : A great price for this if you are coming from LANC...

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