The Radian 2 is a time-lapse motion-controller which improves on its predecessor with the addition of wireless Bluetooth programming from iOS or Android devices, and camera control via USB. Multiple devices can be used together for multi-axis motion shots, while brackets and adapter kits allow for tilting and linear movement. The Radian 2 is currently on Kickstarter, where it has already met its funding target with 14 days left.
When Alpine Labs launched its original Radian time-lapse motion-controller on Kickstarter, it aimed to bring quality features to videographers on a budget. However, since then we've seen a selection of rival devices (such as the TurnsPro) which have tried to offer even more features or appeal to even more budget-conscious buyers. As such, the firm is back with a time-lapse ante-upping follow-up.
As is to be expected of a time-lapse motion-controller, the core ability of the Radian 2 is that it can rotate a camera as a time-lapse movie is shot. In this case it moves across 20,000 discrete positions within a 360-degree rotation, for very smooth motion, and has a standard mounting stud allowing it to easily be used with cameras from smartphones to full frame DSLRs. Battery life if said to be good for 100 hours of panning on a single charge.
In addition to panning motion, the Radian 2 can be used with an L-bracket for vertical tilting, and linear adapter kits mean it can also be used with either the Rhino Slider or StudioFX slider systems. Up to three Radian 2's can also be used together to create multi-axis motion shots, with the devices all moving in synchronization, so the connected camera is still when taking photos.
While the original Radian could be programmed via a smartphone, it had to be physically connected via the headphone jack while this was done. This time around, the Radian 2 features Bluetooth connectivity for wireless programming from the iOS or Android apps with setting options including the number of shots to be taken, angle of rotation and time duration. As well as consistent movement, advanced features include speed ramping, for changing the speed of motion within a time-lapse.
USB or trigger port connectivity between the Radian 2 and a camera also allows advanced wireless camera control from the smartphone app, with users of many camera brands able to adjust aperture, shutter speed and ISO without touching their camera. ISO and shutter speed bulb ramping is possible for creating time-lapse videos in changing light conditions. Users of some cameras will also be able to preview thumbnails of images on their phone in real time, so you'll want to check which features your camera is compatible with in the FAQ section of the Radian 2 Kickstarter page.
The Radian 2 has already reached its US$153,471 goal on Kickstarter, and the project will run to June 5th. A pledge of $220 is currently enough to get you a Radian 2, while a bundle with a linear adapter kit will set you back $320. There are other pledge levels for those wanting multiple devices, and backers should start receiving their Radian 2's in September.
You can check out the Radian 2 Kickstarter video below.
Source: Alpine Labs, Kickstarter