I finally upgraded to the FX3 and a7S III for my video work! I'm curious what everyone considers essential for a pro rig. I’m especially looking for solid cage options, V-mount power setups, and fast storage recommendations that won't break the bank. What are your go-to accessories to get the most out of these bodies?
In my experience, you dont always have to spend a fortune to get a solid rig going. For the cage, I actually went with the Tilta Camera Cage for Sony FX3/FX30 V2 because the modularity is sooo good for switching between handheld and gimbal work. It feels reallyyy solid and has built-in Arca-Swiss mounting, which saves time. Now, for storage, I know everyone talks about those Sony cards, but they're highkey expensive. Honestly, I've been using the ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A Memory Card 480GB Gold and it's basically been flawless for those heavy 4K 120p files. It's a way better value proposition for your long-term costs without sacrificing speed. Also, if youre doing long shoots, the Zitay D-Tap to NP-FZ100 Dummy Battery is a total lifesaver for connecting to your V-mount. It keeps the setup cleaner and more secure than just using USB-C power. It just works, you know? What kind of lenses are you planning to run on these bodies?? peace
sooo I just got into this and honestly found that the NiceRig Camera Cage for Sony FX3 FX30 is a total steal if ur trying to save some cash. I also use the Moman Power 99 V Mount Battery and it’s been fantastic for the price!! For storage, definitely check out the Kingston Canvas React Plus SDXC UHS-II 128GB cards. They handle basically everything without breaking the bank. gl with the new rig!
tbh everyone here has given some solid budget options like smallrig and tilta already. but if you are looking for something that feels a bit more pro and has that lifetime warranty, i really prefer the Kondor Blue Sony FX3 / FX30 Cage with Top Handle Gray. its about 200 dollars but the mounting points are way more secure imo and the build quality is just on another level compared to the cheaper stuff. for power, those moman batteries are fine for starting out but ive had them fail on set before... i would personally trust the Core SWX Nano Micro 98Wh V-Mount Battery more for long shoot days. its roughly 225 but worth the peace of mind. also, for storage, dont sleep on the Angelbird AV Pro SD MK2 V90 128GB cards. they are super reliable for 4k 120p and usually priced better than the sony tough series. basically, if you have the extra budget, these brands are worth the jump for a pro rig.
sooo congrats! rigging these can get realy pricey, but basically, you need a solid base to protect ports and mount gear. i definitely suggest the SmallRig Camera Cage for Sony FX30 / FX3 4183—its a great deal at $90. for power, the SmallRig VB99 Pro V Mount Li-ion Battery is like $160 and honestly works great. also, the Lexar Professional 2000x SDXC UHS-II Card 128GB handles 4k 120p for about $100. gl!
Regarding what #5 said about "tbh everyone here has given some solid budget..." - unfortunately, most of those cheap options skip the technical specs that actually protect your gear. Ive had issues with setups that look fine but fail electrically under load.
Wow ok that changes things. Gonna have to rethink my approach now.