11/06/2026 9:37 am
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So I finally pulled the trigger on a Sony FX30 for this indie doc I'm filming around Seattle next month and now I'm stuck on the rigging. I spent all morning looking at the SmallRig Black Mamba one vs the Tilta kit and I'm just getting more confused the more I read. Some people say the SmallRig blocks the top handle pins and others say Tilta is way too heavy if you're doing handheld stuff all day. I really need to keep the original XLR handle functional because that's my main audio source. My budget is like $150 max since I already blew most of it on glass. Does anyone know which one actually fits the XLR handle best without being a total pain to assemble?
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11/06/2026 9:37 am
Congrats on the FX30, it is an amazing camera for doc work! I had the exact same dilemma last year when I got mine. You absolutely want the SmallRig Sony FX3 FX30 Camera Cage 4183. Honestly, it is the perfect solution for the XLR handle issue because the top section is modular. You just slide off the top plate when you need the audio handle, and it bolts down super securely. The setup is incredibly easy. First, you mount the main cage body. Then, you use the included screws to attach the top extension only if you arent using the XLR unit. When you want the XLR handle on, you just leave that top piece off. It keeps the setup lightweight for handheld shooting, and it only costs about 99 bucks, which easily fits your budget. Love mine, it has saved my wrist on long shoot days!
