Nice vid Matt. I can appreciate your thought process here, but I think you got away from the purpose of the unit. It is strictly made for cinema use. kind of unfair to give it a con if you going to use it outside of its intended purpose. I can really get with the con of the spacing to get at buttons I think that is fair. But, if you buy a cinema rig and then try using it as multi purpose or run and gun, then you are not going to be happy with it. Cinema rigs are heavy by nature. Also you will have to get use to the touch screen on the side. I currently own one for my R5C. I rig my cameras for the job. sometimes it is a full rig up for set use, and sometimes it is stripped down version for run and gun use. I agree whole heartedly with your conclusion of who the unit is for. It is for the cinema use case to be able to rig it with what ever you need. I would say keep it handy for those jobs that you will need all the devices attached to get the job done easier. I like your content and I sub'd, keep the content coming. Hello, from Michigan
To be fair I'd say 90% of the people buying this are not using it in a cinema production. Nearly everyone who buys this is using it in the same fashion that you'd use a C200 or an FS5. Maybe some doc work, event stuff, a wedding here and there, maybe a music video once in a while, just kinda whatever. I highly doubt the people who buy this are making features. I also HIGHLY doubt Caleb Pike is designing this type of stuff for cinema work, Caleb has ALWAYS been creating content for the average everyday filmmaker who shoots RUclips content, weddings, events, etc, so to say that the intent of Cineback is for exclusive cinema production I'd say is a LONG SHOT.
Caleb's release video wasn't "turn your mirrorless into a cinema camera" it was titled "The PERFECT Sony FX3 / FX30 Camera Rig!", and as someone newly exploring the space and looking for options, this squarely puts it in the same advertised space as a smaller/simpler Smallrig or Falcam cage. No mention of "this is for cinema setups" that I remember. It's use may be obvious to you, or other experienced professionals, but that's now how it is sometimes advertised.
@@cgrado Fair Point, I receive this very well. Thank you for your response. It gives me another way to look at it. But, to be fair on the website where you pay for it, it says "Turn Your Sony FX3 or FX30 into a cinema camera with Cineback", I bought the R5C unit and I remember hearing or seeing this and it immediately told me it was for cinema use.
@@STGFilmmakers I want to say first I'm glad we can have this type of mature dialog. I think Matt has a great future ahead from watching some of his vids understanding his mindset in how he approaches his craft. I made this point to point out that the consumer has a responsibility as well, that's all. I agree with what is said here.
Thank Matthew for this HONEST review of Cineback. As of today, October 8th, 2024, yours is the ONLY one that says the Cineback is basically a D tap splitter, very heavy compared to other camera modifiers, and it makes it difficult for the user to press the Mode button on his camera. This is exactly what I need to know to make an informed decision of buying a camera modifier.
The cineback is more about looks than functionality. We rig the camera to add functionality and more ergonomics to ease the use. Everyone rigs differently to suite their needs So no one has the same rig. For example: we add more weight to elimanate micro jitters and balance the grip to have one hand handheld swings. We add hotshoes to mount a monitor for a biggere screen to add luts or false color also to get to assess focus and to easily derig. We add a zoom f3 to get xlr audio with 32bit float audio backup We add mounts for bigger batteries to power up the whole system from a single swappable giant battery We add top and side handles to improve stability of operating handhels and get those low angles shots and mice attachments The cineback is more for show and offer a clean starting point, but its more like adult lego sets where you can mix in other brands and redesign it as you see fit. Personally i would look at the parts and make a list Then starting making my own design until i get my optimal rig
Thanks so true. .. , and we rig it for way cheaper, u can add a normal V mount plate and a D tap splitter, even w a VERY GOOD quality splitter its 50 bucks and another 50 for the plate . 20 for the rods , 30 for the baseplate , worst case its arond 200 for the SAME functionality but " worse " in looks .
Cage + Rod system are usually made to support LWS standard, measured from center of optical sensor to the rod. Using Cineback means that you have to buy adjustable type of lens and matte box supports or additional adapters. However, the biggest downside is difficulty to swap between the rig and gimbal. Everything is bolted down instead of using quick release.
@@Matthew_Chung Even then, it's only obvious when you have those points where you have to pause and think about it. Probably cuz you're naturally more focused on conveying what the video is about rather than making sure your English is perfect lol. Regardless, you're super close to having a perfect accent. Nothing to sweat, I just wanted to drop some encouragement cuz I know how hard it is!
I have stopped rigging my shit out and I couldn't be happier. I bought an A7SIII 4 years ago to be agile. If I ever need more and huger equipment I can rent it. I don't get buying an FX6 its basically a A7SIII minus IBIS + internal ND (wow I have no problem screwing a 100-200 dollar ND filter in front of it if I need one) so we live in this nice time where small setups can compete with bigger cinema cameras and in some points blow them up (AF) so lets enjoy the light setups 🙂
The only type of upgrades I like to do with my rig now are what I consider essentials, because anything else is just overkill. For example, just ordered a cold shoe monitor mount that will be much better than the magical arm solution I once used for my monitor. Focusing on things like that is where I only care to put money toward, since all of the other accessories are "nice to have" but not "essential to have".
Fantastic video! I built mine own for 150 and I use it for studio.🎉 Concept of CineBack is great but CineBack is terrible execution. It doesnt have 2pin, 3pin locking, it doesnt have DC 8V and 12V. Connectors are on the side where you grab the cameras handle.
I built my own as well for about the same cost and agree. Did you add the options to yours? Mine is exactly like the Cineback but at least half the cost.
Dunno Matt, I have the FX30 version, it does fit tight but that is good. Still, there is enough clearance to use all the buttons, no problems at all and I am bug guy, like 1'90(m) and 100kg+.
I like the idea of having the monitor on the camera left side for the A.C to have a look at the menu system, as opposed to having a small gap at the back where the screen is flipped out between the15mm rods and the Vmount battery. If you are shoulder mounted on the right side, you can easily use the touch screen settings, but these days DP's will always have an external monitor hooked up to the mirrorless body. I'm not 100% sold on the idea of the 4 Dtap splitters via the V mount. I mean most IDX batteries have 2 Dtaps ports on either side with USB connection too. I think for Steadicam Rigs this will be good to keep the camera top heavy, but for handheld use, I'd rather have it stripped down without the cage and chuck it on a RS4 Pro with wireless focus. Thanks for sharing nonetheless champ.
@Matthew_Chung You probable know or heard of the movie The Creator. DP Oren used the FX3 with the DJI RS3 gimbal with multiple mounts and handles to make it float for hand held run n gun and over the shoulder. They also used the FX9.
I bought the Cineback a while ago and I have little to no complaints about it. What you say in the video is true, this rig is not for on the go projects as it does get heavy, even with the smallest of setups. I have used this exclusively for bigger projects and commercial work. Clients love the look, and personally I love making my FX3 look like a mini Arri 🤭, Another point I feel wasn't very highlighted in this video is the ability to rig however the hell you want, I have done so many builds and rigs with virtually almost any piece of equipment, it feels very nice to know you have the space and the sturdiness to basically create any rig with the Cineback, the quality of the product is great despite having 3D printed parts. I don't regret buying the piece, but it does have it's very specific purposes and it's not something the average filmmaker will use every day.
I do mention in my pros where you have unlimited space for rigging and power! Yes! I definitely got compliments and looks when using it as well! I guess I gotta build muscles haha.
My buddy has a replica from aliexpress. He purchased it for $200 and when I saw it, I thought it was the real thing. Imo it’s still expensive for $200cad but for $500cad after taxes for a bunch of cheese plates, 3d printed parts and a dtap splitter, it’s outrageously expensive.
Thank you for giving a good and bad assessment. I’ve debated on this equipment but what you said about buttons being difficult to press sealed the deal. I’m gonna pass. Interesting how the camera looks has become so important. The thing we use to feed our vanity has become the thing of vanity.
@precision4life756 Good analogy 😅. If it doesn't fit your style, then there no need to purchase. There are arca swiss v mount plates that give you similar results!
How about going to the gym? An FX9 can also be handheld. I think the cineback is nice but 3 times over priced, which is just a shame of the youtuber who did it. There is one and only one reason for the price: The need. He could sell it so well, why not making a price like 400€ instead of 150? I like the Idea of the Cineback but its not much more than all of us would have done, if having the possebility and well its more nice to have, than waht you need.
I feel like a lot of the complaints or "Cons" as you stated, are not really cons, but rather, lack of research on your end. It's clear that this is not a product for you. But that does not make it a bad product. I for one, appreciate a heavier camera. You may not, and if you do not, then do not add more weight by using a cineback.
@MarcoCastro Of course, it may sound like that as things like vanity plate are a small nitpick. However, if you do watch other reviews, they do go over similar complaints. I'm all about handheld run and gun as well, but there's a simple solution to adding v mounts and d tap splitter, which I do mention in the video.
The only clients that would take you seriously with a glorified battery mount are the wrong type of clients… the ones that know nothing about cameras but care about cameras… you want clients that know nothing about cameras but do care what camera you use or those that don’t care at all and don’t know about cameras. You never want to work for someone who is so insecure that the physical size of the camera makes a difference to being hired
People keep making this goofy statement. The FX6 is a totally different camera. You can want the cineback without wanting an FX6. The cineback doesn’t even make your camera an fx6, it simply adds mounting points, better power distribution, and more weight to a small body… and you can always downsize when you don’t need that. Can you downsize an fx6? No
Nice vid Matt. I can appreciate your thought process here, but I think you got away from the purpose of the unit. It is strictly made for cinema use. kind of unfair to give it a con if you going to use it outside of its intended purpose. I can really get with the con of the spacing to get at buttons I think that is fair. But, if you buy a cinema rig and then try using it as multi purpose or run and gun, then you are not going to be happy with it. Cinema rigs are heavy by nature. Also you will have to get use to the touch screen on the side. I currently own one for my R5C. I rig my cameras for the job. sometimes it is a full rig up for set use, and sometimes it is stripped down version for run and gun use. I agree whole heartedly with your conclusion of who the unit is for. It is for the cinema use case to be able to rig it with what ever you need. I would say keep it handy for those jobs that you will need all the devices attached to get the job done easier. I like your content and I sub'd, keep the content coming. Hello, from Michigan
To be fair I'd say 90% of the people buying this are not using it in a cinema production. Nearly everyone who buys this is using it in the same fashion that you'd use a C200 or an FS5. Maybe some doc work, event stuff, a wedding here and there, maybe a music video once in a while, just kinda whatever. I highly doubt the people who buy this are making features. I also HIGHLY doubt Caleb Pike is designing this type of stuff for cinema work, Caleb has ALWAYS been creating content for the average everyday filmmaker who shoots RUclips content, weddings, events, etc, so to say that the intent of Cineback is for exclusive cinema production I'd say is a LONG SHOT.
I do mention I did use it for cinema style purpose! I'm just noticing some cons I had with it, but fair point! Thanks for watching!
Caleb's release video wasn't "turn your mirrorless into a cinema camera" it was titled "The PERFECT Sony FX3 / FX30 Camera Rig!", and as someone newly exploring the space and looking for options, this squarely puts it in the same advertised space as a smaller/simpler Smallrig or Falcam cage. No mention of "this is for cinema setups" that I remember. It's use may be obvious to you, or other experienced professionals, but that's now how it is sometimes advertised.
@@cgrado Fair Point, I receive this very well. Thank you for your response. It gives me another way to look at it. But, to be fair on the website where you pay for it, it says "Turn Your Sony FX3 or FX30 into a cinema camera with Cineback", I bought the R5C unit and I remember hearing or seeing this and it immediately told me it was for cinema use.
@@STGFilmmakers I want to say first I'm glad we can have this type of mature dialog. I think Matt has a great future ahead from watching some of his vids understanding his mindset in how he approaches his craft. I made this point to point out that the consumer has a responsibility as well, that's all. I agree with what is said here.
Thank Matthew for this HONEST review of Cineback. As of today, October 8th, 2024, yours is the ONLY one that says the Cineback is basically a D tap splitter, very heavy compared to other camera modifiers, and it makes it difficult for the user to press the Mode button on his camera. This is exactly what I need to know to make an informed decision of buying a camera modifier.
@@mauriciolee7349 no worries! Happy to help
The cineback is more about looks than functionality.
We rig the camera to add functionality and more ergonomics to ease the use.
Everyone rigs differently to suite their needs
So no one has the same rig.
For example: we add more weight to elimanate micro jitters and balance the grip to have one hand handheld swings.
We add hotshoes to mount a monitor for a biggere screen to add luts or false color also to get to assess focus and to easily derig.
We add a zoom f3 to get xlr audio with 32bit float audio backup
We add mounts for bigger batteries to power up the whole system from a single swappable giant battery
We add top and side handles to improve stability of operating handhels and get those low angles shots and mice attachments
The cineback is more for show and offer a clean starting point, but its more like adult lego sets where you can mix in other brands and redesign it as you see fit.
Personally i would look at the parts and make a list
Then starting making my own design until i get my optimal rig
@@MrZerosami2 definitely!
Thanks so true. .. , and we rig it for way cheaper, u can add a normal V mount plate and a D tap splitter, even w a VERY GOOD quality splitter its 50 bucks and another 50 for the plate . 20 for the rods , 30 for the baseplate , worst case its arond 200 for the SAME functionality but " worse " in looks .
Cage + Rod system are usually made to support LWS standard, measured from center of optical sensor to the rod. Using Cineback means that you have to buy adjustable type of lens and matte box supports or additional adapters. However, the biggest downside is difficulty to swap between the rig and gimbal. Everything is bolted down instead of using quick release.
@ETFootprints Definitely! I only have played with the standard, but I'm aware ARRI has different sizes of rod systems.
Appreciate the honesty and talking about the rod system!
@connorquigvids No problem! I found that it's repeative to add rail system especially when you can grab a v mount 15mm rod plate!
@@Matthew_Chung we bought this camera for small form factor !!! WHO NEEDS this rubbish additional heavy rubbish sh_t
very cool considerations, never thought about a bunch of stuff you said haha great content man
@_victorfoss_ It's the little things! Thanks for watching. Still a great product.
Thanks for the advice! And your english is super good!
Haha, my accent seems to show a bit stronger when I make these videos, ahaha.
@@Matthew_Chung Even then, it's only obvious when you have those points where you have to pause and think about it. Probably cuz you're naturally more focused on conveying what the video is about rather than making sure your English is perfect lol. Regardless, you're super close to having a perfect accent. Nothing to sweat, I just wanted to drop some encouragement cuz I know how hard it is!
I have stopped rigging my shit out and I couldn't be happier. I bought an A7SIII 4 years ago to be agile. If I ever need more and huger equipment I can rent it. I don't get buying an FX6 its basically a A7SIII minus IBIS + internal ND (wow I have no problem screwing a 100-200 dollar ND filter in front of it if I need one) so we live in this nice time where small setups can compete with bigger cinema cameras and in some points blow them up (AF) so lets enjoy the light setups 🙂
Absolutely. I stopped rigging my cameras out for a nicer user experience. I just have different cameras for different purposes.
For sure! Definitely depends on the workflow.
The only type of upgrades I like to do with my rig now are what I consider essentials, because anything else is just overkill. For example, just ordered a cold shoe monitor mount that will be much better than the magical arm solution I once used for my monitor. Focusing on things like that is where I only care to put money toward, since all of the other accessories are "nice to have" but not "essential to have".
My Fav RUclipsr after JiosCamp
@@danielkim3587 💗
Good review! I dont need one and still watched the whole thing 🙂
Thanks for your time! Hopefully, you enjoyed it!
@@Matthew_Chung I did 🙂👍🏻
Great review!
Thank you!
Fantastic video! I built mine own for 150 and I use it for studio.🎉 Concept of CineBack is great but CineBack is terrible execution. It doesnt have 2pin, 3pin locking, it doesnt have DC 8V and 12V. Connectors are on the side where you grab the cameras handle.
Definitely! Needs improvement for sure!
I built my own as well for about the same cost and agree. Did you add the options to yours? Mine is exactly like the Cineback but at least half the cost.
Dunno Matt, I have the FX30 version, it does fit tight but that is good. Still, there is enough clearance to use all the buttons, no problems at all and I am bug guy, like 1'90(m) and 100kg+.
@@cristiat I might just have fat thumbs!
I like the idea of having the monitor on the camera left side for the A.C to have a look at the menu system, as opposed to having a small gap at the back where the screen is flipped out between the15mm rods and the Vmount battery. If you are shoulder mounted on the right side, you can easily use the touch screen settings, but these days DP's will always have an external monitor hooked up to the mirrorless body. I'm not 100% sold on the idea of the 4 Dtap splitters via the V mount. I mean most IDX batteries have 2 Dtaps ports on either side with USB connection too. I think for Steadicam Rigs this will be good to keep the camera top heavy, but for handheld use, I'd rather have it stripped down without the cage and chuck it on a RS4 Pro with wireless focus. Thanks for sharing nonetheless champ.
@@VIPAH Thank you for the input!
@Matthew_Chung You probable know or heard of the movie The Creator. DP Oren used the FX3 with the DJI RS3 gimbal with multiple mounts and handles to make it float for hand held run n gun and over the shoulder. They also used the FX9.
@VIPAH I believe it was mostly on the fx3 and rs2
Nice!Thank You
Thanks for watching!
I bought the Cineback a while ago and I have little to no complaints about it. What you say in the video is true, this rig is not for on the go projects as it does get heavy, even with the smallest of setups. I have used this exclusively for bigger projects and commercial work. Clients love the look, and personally I love making my FX3 look like a mini Arri 🤭, Another point I feel wasn't very highlighted in this video is the ability to rig however the hell you want, I have done so many builds and rigs with virtually almost any piece of equipment, it feels very nice to know you have the space and the sturdiness to basically create any rig with the Cineback, the quality of the product is great despite having 3D printed parts. I don't regret buying the piece, but it does have it's very specific purposes and it's not something the average filmmaker will use every day.
I do mention in my pros where you have unlimited space for rigging and power!
Yes! I definitely got compliments and looks when using it as well!
I guess I gotta build muscles haha.
I mentioned it near the 5:11 in the chapter.
So expensive for 3d printed parts and cheese plates. Waiting for the replica
You can find some on aliexpress.com
It's just as good, according to some reviews.
Rigid Pro has replicas
@@uptonfilms95 similar prices.
My buddy has a replica from aliexpress. He purchased it for $200 and when I saw it, I thought it was the real thing. Imo it’s still expensive for $200cad but for $500cad after taxes for a bunch of cheese plates, 3d printed parts and a dtap splitter, it’s outrageously expensive.
Just buy the stl file from their website for 10 bucks, have it print by a printing company for 50 and buy the plates.
Thank you for giving a good and bad assessment.
I’ve debated on this equipment but what you said about buttons being difficult to press sealed the deal. I’m gonna pass.
Interesting how the camera looks has become so important. The thing we use to feed our vanity has become the thing of vanity.
@precision4life756 Good analogy 😅.
If it doesn't fit your style, then there no need to purchase. There are arca swiss v mount plates that give you similar results!
@@Matthew_Chung I’m already rocking the small rig version arca/vmount. Love it. Breaks down and travels with ease too! Keep up the good work.
What other factors keep you from buying the rigidpro/cineback?
mostly costs, import fees is a huge deal unfortunately
That it’s useless.
@@tjena Definitely! Kinda torn about that.
Cost.
@@andycasiello7177 agree! Simply too expensive
Cool gadget. Are you a cinematographer or a videographer?
@@gaarax0x both!
How about going to the gym? An FX9 can also be handheld. I think the cineback is nice but 3 times over priced, which is just a shame of the youtuber who did it. There is one and only one reason for the price: The need. He could sell it so well, why not making a price like 400€ instead of 150? I like the Idea of the Cineback but its not much more than all of us would have done, if having the possebility and well its more nice to have, than waht you need.
True! It is pricey but at the same time can't afford the fx6/9 right now, so the cineback will do for now..
Thank you for watching!
Why rig out a camera if you are just run and gun?
@anthonyk27 There are times when having things like external monitor or top handle. All of those small things help with better handheld coverage.
I feel like a lot of the complaints or "Cons" as you stated, are not really cons, but rather, lack of research on your end. It's clear that this is not a product for you. But that does not make it a bad product. I for one, appreciate a heavier camera. You may not, and if you do not, then do not add more weight by using a cineback.
@MarcoCastro Of course, it may sound like that as things like vanity plate are a small nitpick. However, if you do watch other reviews, they do go over similar complaints.
I'm all about handheld run and gun as well, but there's a simple solution to adding v mounts and d tap splitter, which I do mention in the video.
@MarcoCastro You would be lying if heavy setups like this don't require easy rig for long hours, though.
@@Matthew_Chung the heavier the better.
@@MarcoCastro only if you have the support! Your body probably says otherwise in the long run. Thanks for watching!
i don't plan to buy it. I don't even own a Sony. But I watched the whole video. Very interesting opinion.
Thank you so much!
The only clients that would take you seriously with a glorified battery mount are the wrong type of clients… the ones that know nothing about cameras but care about cameras… you want clients that know nothing about cameras but do care what camera you use or those that don’t care at all and don’t know about cameras. You never want to work for someone who is so insecure that the physical size of the camera makes a difference to being hired
@@BampFilm which I do mention in the video that it's definitely something you shouldn't do!
@@BampFilm it's definitely the story over everything that truly matters. Thanks for watching!
waste of $$, terrible design. Just get an FX6 if you want an FX6.
True! I think it's nice to have both but of course money haha..
People keep making this goofy statement. The FX6 is a totally different camera. You can want the cineback without wanting an FX6. The cineback doesn’t even make your camera an fx6, it simply adds mounting points, better power distribution, and more weight to a small body… and you can always downsize when you don’t need that. Can you downsize an fx6? No
@@Eyeofkamau Bingo!
The problem with your theory is that you can't make an FX6 any smaller... But you can always build up an FX3.
@@brettalexander.studio that's the whole point imo.
we bought this camera for small form factor !!! WHO NEEDS this rubbish additional heavy rubbish sh_t
Well it definitely helps sometimes!