We've seen a lot of jury-rigged camera rigs to help you shoot HD video with your digital SLR, but these latest accessories from Redrock Micro look to be among the best.

Unveiled today at the NAB 2009 show in Las Vegas, the new DSLR 2.0 line of Redrock cinema accessories for video DSLR cameras are compatible with the Canon 5D Mark II and Rebel T1i; Nikon D90; and forthcoming Panasonic Lumix GH1. (No mention of the consumer-level, HD-capable Nikon D5000 -- due out this month -- but we wouldn't be surprised if a compatible rig for that model is in the works too.)

The DSLR 2.0 accessories from Redrock Micro are a follow-up to that company's DSLR Cinema Bundles from 2008 and though we haven't had any hands-on time with the new models yet, there look to be some improvements in terms of ergonomics and portability.

What's also nice is that they don't cost an arm and a leg. DSLR 2.0 kits start from as low as $195. Of course, the final price is contingent on what components you select and there's approximately two dozen parts you can mix and match to get your final configuration. (Realistically, a working DSLR 2.0 rig from Redrock Micro will cost you in the $2,000-$3,000 range.)

Best of all though is that they're designed to let you use your digital SLR like a cinema camera, which is a hard thing to do considering the way DSLRs are shaped. Stability is key to keeping your HD video looking sharp and, as you can see from the images in this story, Redrock Micro's DSLR 2.0 line seeks to provide that.

They're also lightweight and use a locking pin system to prevent rotation. There's a quick release clamp so you can quickly alter the rigs if needed, for instance, to switch it to a tripod or for handheld shooting.

More info in the press release below.


PRESS RELEASE

Redrock Micro Announces New DSLR 2.0 Hybrid Cinema Rigs
        
New low cost accessories advance DSLRs into next-generation hybrid still and cinema-style shooting

April 22, 2009 Dallas, TX – Redrock Micro, the leading provider of cinema accessories for digital filmmakers, today announced the new DSLR 2.0 line of Redrock cinema accessories for video DSLR cameras, including the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, Canon EOS Rebel T1i, Nikon D90, and Panasonic Lumix HG1. Redrock’s DSLR 2.0 products build on Redrock’s successful launch of the original DSLR Cinema Bundles already in wide use today, and address an emerging new ultra portable shooting style.

DSLR 2.0 delivers cinema support & accessories for hybrid still and cinema shooting

Video DSLRs alone are not stable enough nor provide the features for cinema-style production. Redrock’s previous DSLR Cinema Bundles (launched in 2008) add the weight, form factor, and features (such as mattebox, follow focus, and support cage) that transform DSLRs into viable cinema production rigs.

DSLR 2.0 accessories build on Redrock’s current products to address the emerging new hybrid shooting style enabled by DSLR video cameras that combine the ultra portability and lightweight of DSLR shooting with cinema-style accessories, features, and standards.

 “Redrock’s previous DSLR Cinema Bundles transform DSLR video cameras into the form factor, features, and durability of a cinema-style camera,” said James Hurd, Chief Revolutionist for Redrock Micro. “DSLR 2.0 accessories are designed for shooters who want cinema accessories and features, but a more portable lightweight solution that can be feature-configured to exactly meet their needs. Our customers also said they wanted more affordable solutions that can be purchased in pieces. Our new systems are in the hundreds of dollars.”

“Canon is a leader in the explosion of interest in DSLR video with our ground-breaking Canon 5D Mark II DSLR camera with full HD video,” said David Sparer, senior manager, Professional Product Market, Canon U.S.A., “Redrock’s new DSLR 2.0 gear is a fantastic accessory which can be used with Canon DSLR cameras, and delivers a portable, lightweight shooting rig which can help adapt use of our DSLRs to fit many diverse needs.”

Redrock DSLR 2.0: affordable building blocks

Affordability is always a hallmark of Redrock products. DSLR 2.0 delivers even more economical solutions starting for as little as $195. Kit and full rig pricing varies based on the components selected.

At the heart of DSLR 2.0 product line is approximately two dozen individual components that can be mixed and matched at purchase time to provide the exact configuration customers desire. The new unique Redrock DSLR baseplate is the foundation for DSLR 2.0 configurations. It features ultra light design, unique locking pin for DSLRs to eliminate rotation, and quick release clamp for fast transformations, such as from tripod to handheld shooting.  


Availability and Pricing
The Redrock Micro DSLR 2.0 products are available for immediate ordering from Redrock direct and from select Redrock resellers. Pricing depends on configuration, and start as low as $195. More details can be found at http://www.redrockmicro.com


About Redrock Micro
Redrock Microsystems delivers high quality cinema accessories for digital filmmakers at revolutionary prices. Redrock Micro’s products are designed to enhance DV, HD and video DSLR cameras including Panasonic, Sony, Canon, and JVC for true cinema-style shooting. At the heart of the Redrock family is the award-winning Redrock M2 Encore Cinema Lens adapter, which creates the shallow depth of field, angle of view, and focus techniques typically only found in 35mm motion pictures. Additional cinema accessories include the microFollowFocus, microMattebox, microSupport system, and microShoulderMount. Through a unique business approach of direct-to-customer and build-to-order, Redrock delivers the quality and features of premium solutions at a fraction of the price. This approach is ideal for independent filmmakers, owners/operators, film educators and students, and budget-conscious moviemakers. Redrock Micro has offices in Dallas, Texas, and Hollywood, California. Red rock Micro can be reached at info@redrockmicro.com and www.redrockmicro.com.