Tilta Hydra Predator Shock Absorbing Arm Now Available

Camera Accessories

by Yaroslav AltuninAugust 11^th, 2021

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Tilta has just introduced another lightweight solution for car-mounted cinematography. The new Hydra Predator Shock Absorbing Arm is made to utilize speed rails. In the process, Tilta has created a package that is small and lightweight, yet can support larger camera rigs while maintaining a small footprint. The addition of included accessories offers native support, accurate control, and improved ease of use for the DJI RS 2 gimbal system.

The Hydra Predator Shock Absorbing Arm is just under 18 inches in length and is based around the new Predator Rail Mounting Attachment. This allows operators to secure the arm of the Hydra to any 2-inch speed rail, either on existing structures or custom-built rigs.

The reduced weight and footprint of the Hydra minimizes the need for expansive speed rail builds. Built upon their Hydra Alien Car Mounting System design, the Hydra Predator system also supports the DJI RS 2 gimbal. On top of this, any gimbal that can mount via 1/4″-20 screws and be powered via P-Tap is compatible, just as long as your rig is under the 7.5kg limit. Unfortunately, the Remote Control Handle only supports DJI’s RS 2 gimbal.

Cash poor, feature rich

For only $1,499.00 for the entire package, the Tilta Hydra Predator Shock Absorbing Arm is an attractive budget alternative in their long line of products. At this price point, they either meet or underprice their competition while providing a feature-rich product. The Hydra system comes in either V-mount or gold mount with two battery plates that offer an 8-hour run time.

An adjustable, shock-absorbing arm stabilizes the camera while a spring-loaded cradle head is used for shots that require the gimbal to be flipped upside down. The included Hydraulic Dampening Pole further stabilizes the Hydra system, providing smoother results in less than optimal driving conditions.

A unique friendship

Tilta’s partnership with DJI continues to bear fruit. The native support for the DJI RS 2 gimbal adds value to this already feature-rich kit. An RS 2 Remote Control Kit offers full wired or wireless control of a DJI RS 2 and the camera’s record functions, while the included monitor bracket makes it easier to monitor and control the RS 2.

What’s in the box?

Tilta provides the entire package in the Predator Hard Shell Safety Case, a pelican-style case that should be more than adequate for anything you throw at it. Inside, you’ll find the following list of parts and tools:

Tools of the trade

Filmmakers are living in the golden age of production equipment. Something that used to be custom-built and/or had astronomical costs is now accessible to creatives at all budget levels.

Link: Tilta

What do you think of the Hydra rig? Is this something that would help your productions? Let us know in the comments below!