So far, so great... 6 stars!…read more
I switched to AbelCine recently after experiencing some unusually rude salespeople at B&H this year (not in the camera department, mind you, but it still left a bad taste in my mouth).
This caused me to seek out alternatives, and after taking an excellent course at AbelCine, it really sealed the deal.
As knowledgable as some of the camera people are at B&H, these folks are actually far more knowledgeable. They have *working* knowledge of the latest of everything in pro video. It's like a dream come true. These people are SMART, and stay up to date.
If you dig a little, you quickly find out that these are the folks who help set up many professional TV programs and movies with their gear. (And the consulting to put it together right, and use it properly for the best results)
For instance, they put together the Sony FS700 package and dressed it up with the right rigging, lens and sound for Anthony Bourdain's new CNN show "Parts Unknown". This was brilliant, and took the new show to a whole new level!
Ever notice the new sharpness of the show, and the cool slowmo? Well, thank AbelCine for that!
Same thing with you... What they can do for an already incredible show like Anthony Bourdains, they can do for you. They're really nice folks, and don't seem to talk down to people who aren't as well versed. They're like the video equivalent of what Coffey Sound used to be in Hollywood for audio.
I have literally been searching for a place like this for years and years now. B&H was close (and was fun to shop before they became too aggressive this year), but this is the real deal if you need someone to help you get pro TV and cinema level results.
I think they're under-reviewed because people view as a trade secret or something... And folks keep this secret selfishly to themselves. But seriously, try 'em -- maybe take a course or something like I first did.
They're so damn smart, they can take you and your productions to a whole new level, too! (And yes, they do things mere mortals can afford, as well... But do keep in mind, this is really the shop you want to go to when you want to make money from your video work)
PS -- They also offer one of the better selections of rental cameras and lenses I've seen. Even uber expensive stuff, like Alexas and Phantom cameras. Even real film cameras!
You can also rent things you could never normally afford to spice up a production, or you could rent something cheaper that you're considering buying (like an afford Canon or what have you). It really is good to rent gear before you buy it. They have so many camera body and lens options here to try, you'll be in awe!