HDSLRShooter at NAB 2013: Kinotehnik LCDVFe & Accessories

Kinotehnik originally introduced the LCDVFe last year, but since that time, there has been some huge improvements and new accessories that make the device compatible with HD-SDI cameras.First of all, we’d like to say that this is by far the BEST LCD EVF on the market.  Tonis of Kinotehnik explains, most so-called EVFs are simply monitors with a loop attached.  However, the LCDVFe is not.  It was designed from the ground up to an EVF comparable to what you might find on many broadcast cameras.

Kinotehnik’s hardware additions to the LCDVFe include an HDSDI to HDMI converter box that mounts easily with the LCDVFe on their included 50mm rod mount (or any 5mm rod mount for that matter). The LCDVFe already works well with the Blackmagic Cinema Camera, however this converter box also ensures it will work well with their newer cameras, such as the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera and Blackmagic Production Camera 4K.

Another new hardware addition is a small remote controller that lets you completely control the LCDVFe with only your thumb, removing the threat of accidentally bumping your camera off shot.

Already included with the LCDVFe was the aforementioned 50mm rod system, as well as a universal power supply, HDMI transmitter, on board interchangeable 4 AA batteries, and D-tap power cable. The unit can run for about 4-6 hours on AA batteries, and around 4 days straight on a D-tap battery. The LCDVFe is also possibly the fastest and smoothest operating EVFs on the market thanks to its Altera Cyclone FPGA processor. This processor produces real time image processing with virtually no latency and helps keep menu operation swift and lag free. As for the menu itself, it’s layout is very clean and well thought out, and it also keeps track of where you previously left off.

The LCDVFe comes with a 1 year warranty, but as Tonis mentions in our interview above, he built the LCDVFe to be easily repaired in the field. He says that all it takes is a couple of screwdrivers and some easy repair videos they’ll send links to. If your repairs require any spare parts, Kinotehnik will also ship the parts directly to you. Shipping time is quite fast for an international company, and the parts can be shipped in up to 3 days for the more dire circumstances. They do have a reliable repair process for those uncomfortable with the notion of repairing the unit themselves. Kinotehnik’s US distributor, Manios Digital, accepts items for repair as well and offers a longer 2 year warranty. The LCDVFe retails for about $980, and can be bought at Kinotehnik’s US distributor ManiosDigital.com, as well as direct from www.kinotehnik.com