The new VRig from Matthews Studio Equipment will be officialy launched at IBC 2016, but if you’re eager to have one, the product is already available, in two versions, the lightweight S30 and the heavyweight S70.

The IBC 2016 show, in Amesterdam, which runs between September 9-13, the premier annual event for specialists who create, manage and deliver entertainment and news content worldwide, is the place chosen by Matthews Studio Equipment to show their VRig, the first professional grade camera support systems that is specifically designed for VR capture.  One could say that the company, following their motto – Technology That Complements Your Imagination – is entering the VR world big time. The MSE customer inspired design of VRig makes it more than just a stand, it’s a spherical camera support system based on their half-century of knowledge for designing grip equipment to work.

“By their very nature, spherical cameras see everything and are often left unattended amidst the action,” says Tyler Phillips, Vice President Marketing and Product Development for Matthews Studio Equipment. “They require a strong support system that is unobtrusive to the camera view, and can be easily painted out in post.” The VRig’s ultra-small footprint minimizes nadir hole and shadow obstruction, yet, like all MSE equipment, will maintain rock solid stability assisted by its low center of gravity barbell weight retainer that works with standard or Olympic style weights. There is also an optional suction Pump Cup for non-porous surfaces and an Auger Spike for exterior locations to further enhance stability.

To provide VR viewers with an immersive experience at live events, for example, the spherical camera is often positioned front row and center of the action. It’s essential that the camera and rigging remain inconspicuous and minimize the obstruction to the live audience. “With discretion in mind, we designed the VRig with a slim vertical riser and equipped it with a Black Elastic Leg Skirt, allowing camera accessories to be concealed from view,” adds Phillips. Integrated tapped female mounts for lighting fixtures and microphones are also included to help address the rigging challenges of a spherical environment while still remaining inconspicuous.

VRig comes in two versions. The lightweight S30 (at only 7.5lbs or 3.4kg) supports up to 30lbs (13.6 kg), features a minimum height of 26” (66cm) and a maximum height of 64.5” (164cm) with a minimum footprint diameter of 6” (15.2cm) and a maximum footprint diameter of 37” (94cm). The heavyweight S75 (at 14lbs or 6.4kg) supports up to 75lbs. (34kg), features a minimum height of 33” (84cm) and a maximum height of 86” (218.5cm), with a minimum footprint diameter of 9” (23cm) and maximum footprint diameter of 43” (109cm).

Built in aluminum, the system is both robust and modular. And it isn’t just for live events. VRig is a multi-tasker, ready to capture VR for every entertainment platform. It can be reconfigured as a low-angle mount for a car, tabletop, ground, etc., or with an optional Boom Arm can provide mounts with extended positive and negative angles. The VRig also integrates seamlessly with standard grip equipment to allow the creation of custom built rigging.

“The VRig is in use on several major VR productions,” says Phillips. The word from shooters – excitement. They finally have a solid support specifically designed for spherical cameras. “Until now they have been kluging together supports from parts using everything from video tripods to still photo monopods and light stands,” he adds. Built for VR, MSE’s VRig makes the workflow faster – sleeker design means less expensive rig removal in post.

“Operators also tell us that they are able to set shots quickly, yet not be afraid to walk away from their rig and hide from the camera view. Plus, the flexible, modular construction means that in most cases it’s the only support they need to carry, regardless of the of the location,” Phillips adds.

The VRig is available at FilmTools. The Matthews Studio Equipment VRig S30 Kit costs $879.00, and the VRig S75 Kit costs $1,289.00. Both kits are available now.