Panasonic is Replacing Defective EVA1 Grips with New Units

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by Yossy MendelovichJanuary 2^nd, 2018

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Panasonic has redesigned the rotation mechanism in the removable grip of the new AU-EVA1 compact cinema camera, making it more robust and stress resistant. The company will replace the EVA1 grips of the previous design with new units.

The Panasonic AU-EVA1 Compact Super 35mm Cinema Camera has been gaining some positive feedback from filmmakers, offering impressive and professional-looking images within a competitive price point. However, it turns out that the EVA1 grip often collapses when adding extra weight, which has caused some pain for customers wishing to install more accessories on the camera.

The issue occurs when adding extras to the camera and thereby making it heavier. This could cause the grip to “unlock” and flip around by itself – something which could cause damages to the lens or the camera.

Panasonic’s reaction to the complaints of some very disappointed customers suffering from this issue, as stated in the press release: “Thank you very much for your purchase of Compact Cinema Camera AU-EVA1. Addressing customer concerns, Panasonic has redesigned the rotation mechanism in the removable grip of the new AU-EVA1 Compact Cinema Camera. Some clients wish to add numerous accessories to the camera, stressing the rotation latch on the grip and causing it to spin on its own. Panasonic will replace all grips of the previous design with new units.”

Grip Strength Improvements

According to the press release, the main improvement of the grip is the elevation of the torque-stress limitation over its original design to 4kg/9lbs of accessories and a lens mounted to the AU-EVA1.

Replacement of AU-EVA1 Grip

The replacement of the grip was scheduled to start from the 2nd week of December, so it seems to be underway already. Here you can find a list of serial numbers of AU-EVA1 cameras that require replacing their grips.

Precaution

However, it has been noted in the press release that: “When adding a large number of camera accessories it is advised to support the camera on the shoulder or with an additional grip. While greater weights may be supported, precise measures vary as positioning items further from the center axis of the camera as well as fast movements can increase torque forces”. Remember to not overload the camera with accessories even with the improved grip!

Check out the video below which demonstrates the major defects of the previous grip:

Do you have this problem with your EVA1 grip? Let us know in the comments.