If you're used to shooting with a traditional shoulder-mounted ENG camcorder -- and you can't get used to the ergonomics of trying to shoot with a handheld camera such as the Sony PMW-EX1, Z1U, Z7, V1U, FX1, FX7, PD170, VX2100, A1U, Canon GL-2, XH-A1 or Panasonic HVX200 -- then the VSB1 is exactly what you need.

Custom designed by Vortex Media, the VSB1 ensures a stable shooting platform that feels just like a full-size shoulder-mounted camcorder.

The VSB1 was designed by professional cameramen for professional cameramen who want to give their small handheld camcorder a traditional shoulder mount . It's the best of both worlds.

The VSB1 doesn't have any useless pistol grips, embarrassing waist supports, or other gimmicks. Those things just get in the way. Ask yourself this. If you don't need a waist support for a 25 pound Betacam, why do you need one for a 5 pound camcorder? The VSB1 puts the camera's weight on your shoulder where it belongs -- plus it adds an accessory box for external batteries, mic receivers, or counter weights.

Why would you want to add counter weights? Two reasons: First, it's not the weight of the camera the matters for comfort, it's where the center of gravity is located that makes the difference between comfortable shooting and early fatigue. And second, a heavier camera/mount combo provides more mass and therefore more stability.

Any experienced cameraman knows it's harder to hold a five pound camera out in front of your face -- than it is to carry a 25 pound Betacam balanced on your shoulder. The right hand should merely provide support and control - not carry the weight of the camera. When the camera is balanced correctly, you can shoot all day and not even know it's there.

The VSB1 allows you to put the weight of the camera on your shoulder and use your right-hand on the camera's lens grip where it's supposed to go. The left hand remains free to focus, adjust the camera controls, or to further stabilize the camera - just like a full-size camcorder! It's a simple solution for an experienced professional shooter who wants to get the best looking video and comfortable hand-held shooting at the same time.

And unlike other shoulder braces, the VSB1 allows you to mount the camera on a tripod without removing the shoulder brace. You can go from tripod -- to handheld - and back to the tripod as easily as you can with a full-size Betacam, Varicam, or XDCAM HD camera.

The VSB1 also makes it easy to mount accessories to the shoulder brace instead of the camera. Why would you want to hang heavy camera lights or wireless mic receivers from a delicate camera?

The VSB1 is the ultimate camera support for stabilizing your video and eliminating fatigue. Adjustable fittings provide for an endless variety of configurations. The VSB1 is tough, lightweight and virtually indestructible!

1. Does it allow you to use the camera's grip the way the camera was designed to be operated?
2. Does it shift the position of the camera so the viewfinder is in front of your face instead of your shoulder?
3. Does it allow you to keep your left hand free for focusing and adjusting other camera controls?
4. Can you mount the camera on a tripod without removing the shoulder brace?
5. Does it have a box on the back to hold external batteries, mic receivers, or counter weights?
6. Does it weigh less than 40 ounces?
7. Does it cost less than $200?
8. Does it make it easy to mount lights on the brace instead of the camera?
9. Does it allow a full range of tilting and panning?
10. Does it make your camcorder feel just like a full-size shoulder mount camera?