My 2025 Favorite Filmmaking Gear Purchases: Upgrades for Workflow, Efficiency, and Reliability

Thomas Kovacik

Introduction [00:00]

The video outlines the speaker's favorite filmmaking gear purchases of 2025, distinguishing it from a typical gift guide. The focus is on items that have added significant value and become integral to his workflow and gear kit, often replacing older equipment or filling essential needs for a business owner.

1. RED Raptor 8K VV [01:09]

The speaker highlights the Red Raptor 8K VV as his most exciting pickup of the year.

• Acquisition Story:
  • Bought in October, after selling his Komodo X kit due to an irresistible offer from a friend.
  • Promises a dedicated video detailing the reasons for selling the Komodo X and purchasing the Raptor.
• Performance and Impact:
  • Proven to be an excellent move for workflow, business, and creative projects.
  • Delivers "absolutely wonderful" footage.
  • Has been rented out frequently, generating substantial kit fees for bigger jobs.
  • Acknowledges missing the Komodo X but sees the Raptor as a superior business decision.

    

    

2. Innovative Voyager Evo X 42in Camera Cart [02:13]

The camera cart is described as a long-considered purchase that has profoundly improved efficiency.

• Benefits for Workflow:
  • Drastically reduces loading time, allowing for a single trip from car to set instead of multiple.
  • Transforms into a mobile workstation on set, featuring a charging station, space to build cameras, and organized storage for batteries and accessories.
  • Keeps all gear in one central location, especially useful in studio or house settings, eliminating scattered equipment.
• Return on Investment:
  • Considered a "quality of life improvement through and through" on every job.
  • Justifies its cost by saving time and effort, even when a kit fee isn't charged specifically for the cart.

    

    

    

3. OWC CF Express Cards [03:41]

An essential upgrade for data management and camera capabilities.

• Upgrade Details:
  • Upgraded from Red 1TB CF Express Type B V2 cards to OWC V4 Ultras (1TB each), accumulating 4TB in total for the Raptor.
  • Also acquired OWC Type A 480GB cards for his FX3 camera.
• Speed and Efficiency:
  • V4 Ultras offer significantly faster speeds (approximately twice as fast) compared to V2, making offloading footage incredibly quick.
  • The OWC Type B reader is USB-C 4 and "lightning fast," and came with a Type A conversion adapter.
• Enhanced Camera Functionality:
  • The Type A cards for the FX3 enable 4K120 recording in-camera, a feature previously inaccessible with SD cards.
  • Eliminates limitations imposed by slower media, providing full capabilities.

    

    

    

    

4. OWC Thunderbay 8 RAID Enclosure [05:02]

A major investment in data backup and archiving infrastructure.

• Storage Solution:
  • After extensive research between DAS and NAS systems, he chose the OWC Thunderbay 8-Bay RAID enclosure.
  • Populated with 20TB drives (five new, some existing) in a RAID 5 configuration.
• Performance Benefits:
  • Thunderboltenabled, ensuring fast access and offloading of files.
  • Drastically reduced export times; a 40-minute video now exports in 15 minutes, compared to over an hour with previous, slower enclosures.
  • Provides a single, massive 140TB volume, simplifying file management and eliminating the need to search across multiple individual drives.
• Value and Essential Nature:
  • Acknowledges the high cost but emphasizes its essential role and "quality of life improvement" for his business.

    

    

5. Sony Dual Charger (BC-QZ1) [06:40]

A small but impactful accessory for battery management.

• Improved Charging:
  • A "favorite" pick due to its efficiency and compact design, unlike the bulky standard Sony OEM chargers.
  • An OEM dual charger with a USB-C input.
  • Requires a PD-compatible power brick (e.g., Core SWX 45W USB-C PD charger) for optimal performance.
• Portability:
  • Ideal for travel and on-the-go charging due to its compact size and quick charging capabilities.

    

    

    

6. 25ft Stinger (Extension Cord) [07:19]

A practical item for reliable power distribution on set.

• Reliability and Trust:
  • Purchased from B&H, this heavy-duty extension cord offers peace of mind compared to generic hardware store options.
  • Capable of safely handling high power draw from large lights (600W or 1200W).
• On-Set Convenience:
  • Provides independent power for wireless monitor kits or client feeds, avoiding the need to constantly request power from the grip truck.

    

    

7. Bright Tangerine Titan Arm 2 [08:09]

The new "favorite monitor arm" for its design and stability.

• Design and Features:
  • An upgraded version of their "legendary" first model, now even better.
  • Super sturdy and highly adjustable.
  • Equipped with 3/8" ARRI-style locating pins on the camera side and 1/4"-20 locating pins on the monitor side.
• Stability and Efficiency:
  • The locating pins prevent the arm from loosening during movement (e.g., on an easy rig, cine saddle, or handheld), saving time from constant re-tightening.
  • Contrasts favorably with Noga arms using Cineilocks quick releases, which often come loose due to lack of locating pins.
• Usability:
  • Offers a "perfect length" and holds monitors securely even when slightly loosened for adjustment.
  • While a little heavy, its reliability makes it the preferred arm for specific operating styles.

    

    

    

8. Osee Megamon 15S Production Monitor [09:31]

A significant addition to the monitoring setup, acquired as a review unit.

• Quality and Value:
  • The speaker had previously rented this monitor multiple times and preferred its panel quality over larger SmallHD production monitors.
  • Offers excellent picture quality at a lower cost compared to SmallHD.
• Strategic Acquisition:
  • Received directly from Osee for a review, solving the previous issue of sourcing monitors for jobs.
  • Plans to acquire a 24-inch version in the future for larger client needs.
• On-Set Impact:
  • Having a reliable 15S monitor readily available streamlines setup and ensures consistent client monitoring.

    

    

9. Matthews Monitor Rolling Stand Mark I [10:50]

An indispensable support for the production monitor.

• Robust Construction:
  • Despite its seemingly high price, it's lauded as the "sturdiest, lightest stand" for production monitors.
  • Contrasts sharply with flimsy Impact stands that are unstable and risk damaging monitors.
• Ease of Use and Safety:
  • Easy to fold up and deploy, providing a solid and reliable base for expensive monitors.
  • Its weight and design ensure stability, giving peace of mind that the monitor will not topple over.
• Business Advantage:
  • The cost is justified by the protection it offers and the professional image it conveys.
  • Eliminates the need to rent, adding to his kit fees and saving travel time to pick up/return rental equipment.

    

    

    

10. Teradek Bolt 6 TX & RX Wireless System [12:16]

A critical upgrade for wireless video transmission, moving to industry standard.

• Motivation for Upgrade:
  • Replaced the DJI transmission system due to difficulties in sourcing additional receivers (expensive and out of stock).
  • Reliance on rental shipping for key equipment was a significant workflow risk.
• Teradek Benefits:
  • The Teradek Bolt 6 system is "industry standard" with "zero delay," crucial for professional focus pulling.
  • Offers sharper image quality and a "really pretty" feed.
  • Owning the transmitter and receiver creates a 1:1 kit, and renting additional 7-inch handheld monitors for client feeds is easy in LA.
• Professional and Practical Impact:
  • Eliminates rental dependencies and associated risks.
  • Enhances the professional perception of his kit list for producers, potentially leading to more work.

    

    

    

11. Shimoda Accessory Pouch & Case [14:35]

Small organizational items that greatly improve efficiency on set and during travel.

• Accessory Pouch:
  • Low-profile pouches ideal for hip belts (e.g., Shimoda Action X50 backpack), keeping essential items like Sony batteries, ND filters, tools, and snacks readily accessible.
  • Particularly useful for hiking and on-location shoots where quick access is vital.
• Accessory Case:
  • A compact, two-zippered pouch that serves as a "go-to Sony kit."
  • Holds a Sony dual charger, PD charger, USB-C cable, ND filters, batteries, and lens caps.
  • Provides a grab-and-go solution for Sony accessories, easily thrown into any backpack.
• Overall Impact:
  • Significantly improves organization and accessibility of smaller gear, reducing clutter and wasted time.

    

    

12. Yeti 64oz Rambler Bottle [16:30]

A simple yet effective item for personal well-being on long shoot days.

• Hydration on Set:
  • Recommended by a friend, this large water bottle reduces the need for constant refills.
  • Encourages consistent hydration, which is often overlooked during intense shooting.
• Versatility:
  • Primarily kept on the camera cart or in the car for easy access during and after shoots.
  • Also used daily for errands and around the house to ensure sufficient water intake.
• Self-Care:
  • Emphasizes the importance of refueling and rehydrating during long days, especially in hot conditions.

    

    

13. Ricoh GR IV Camera [17:36]

A new daily photo camera selected for evolving personal needs.

• Lens Preference Change:
  • Replaced his beloved GR3X, which had a 40mm equivalent lens.
  • Opted for the GR IV for its wider 28mm lens.
• Reason for Wider Lens:
  • With his son growing and becoming more mobile, a wider lens is better suited for capturing moments in his current lifestyle.
• Future Content:
  • Plans a long-term review of the GR3X, which he owned for over two years, to share accumulated photos and insights.

    

    

    

14. Tenba CineLux V2 Shoulder Bag 21 Hightop [18:22]

A strategic downsizing for camera transport and on-set organization.

• Downsizing Justification:
  • Moved from the CineLux 24 to the smaller 21 Hightop because he wasn't fully utilizing the larger bag's capacity.
  • The larger bag felt too heavy when fully packed, and he has dedicated cases for V-mount batteries and lenses.
• Primary Use:
  • Serves primarily for transporting a built-out camera (like the Raptor with a matbox) from home to set.
  • Functions as a "junk drawer" on the camera cart, providing a quick place to temporarily store pouches, accessories, lens caps, and cleaning cloths.
• Efficiency:
  • The smaller size is a perfect fit for the Raptor and a matbox.
  • Allows the camera to be fully built out before arriving on set, saving time.
  • Customizable padded dividers create efficient space for specific items.

    

    

    

15. O'Connor Flowtech 100 / Miller CX-10 Tripod Kit [20:07]

A major tripod system upgrade driven by safety and reliability concerns.

• Previous System Issues:
  • Experienced "tons of issues" with the Sachtler Flowtech 75 and Activate head, including the head "popping off," nearly losing expensive camera kits (FX6, Komodo X).
  • The Activate head presented an "inherent risk" due to its design.
• New Components:
  • Purchased O'Connor Flowtech 100 legs, which offer the same fast, easy, and lightweight benefits as the Flowtech 75.
  • Paired with a Miller CX-10 fluid head, praising its "amazing" quality and smoothness.
• Enhanced Reliability:
  • The Miller fluid head provides superior stability and reliability, allowing the camera to be left unattended with confidence.
  • The traditional mounting system with a safety layer between the screw and head eliminates the risks associated with the Activate head.
• Performance and Value:
  • The Miller CX-10 head is "extremely smooth," ideal for both small and large jobs, and supports heavy setups with vintage lenses or the Anenu EZ2.
  • The upgrade is justified for peace of mind and protecting valuable equipment.

    

    

    

    

16. Aputure 400X Light [22:52]

A strategic lighting acquisition for portability and improved output.

• Replacement and Performance:
  • Sold his Aputure 600D Pro with the F10 Fresnel to acquire the 400X.
  • The 400X, paired with the new CF7 Fresnel, provides nearly the same output as the 600D Pro/F10 combo.
• Efficiency and Quality:
  • Features a new "Blair engine" chip that is more efficient and color accurate, offering a "smoother" and "more premium" light quality compared to older Aputure chips.
• Portability and Future Plans:
  • The 400X and CF7 Fresnel fit into a case that is a quarter of the size of the 600D case, saving significant storage space.
  • This space-saving allows for a future upgrade to a 1200X as a key light, with the 400X serving for ambient lift or accent lighting.
  • Impressed by the light output for its compact size.

    

    

    

17. Pelican 1535Air Wheeled Carry-On Hard Case with TrekPak [24:22]

A long-awaited hard case purchase for optimized gear protection and organization.

• Acquisition and Features:
  • A hard case he had wanted for 5-6 years, finally purchased on sale.
  • Features the TrekPak divider system, praised for its efficient use of internal space compared to traditional padded dividers (like in Nanuk 935 cases).
• Travel and Organization:
  • Ideal for air travel, allowing him to pack as much gear as possible into a carry-on.
  • Provides a "dialed system" for jobs requiring a hard case over a backpack, ensuring gear is protected and easily accessible.
  • Plans to customize the TrekPak setup for different kits (e.g., Raptor kit, FX3, lenses, V-mounts, accessories).
• Future Customization:
  • Will require time and potentially additional TrekPak dividers to create specific, versatile setups for various jobs.
  • Anticipates it being a significant "quality of life improvement," especially for travel.

    

    

18. EcoFlow Delta 3 Max Portable Power Station [27:12]

A personal power solution that enhances on-set independence.

• Motivation for Purchase:
  • Had been renting portable power stations (like the Delta 2 Max) for a long time and grew tired of sourcing them.
  • Its acquisition coincided with getting the camera cart, making it a crucial component for a fully independent mobile workstation.
• Capacity and Versatility:
  • The 2048 Wh capacity (2K) is sufficient to charge V-mount batteries, a MacBook, and other accessories for an entire day.
  • Provides power for charging batteries in the car, on the camera cart, or powering production monitors on the go.
• Workflow Improvement:
  • Offers peace of mind, knowing he won't run out of power, especially during outdoor shoots where outlets are scarce.
  • Features a 100W USB-C port, allowing direct charging of a MacBook without its bulky power brick.

    

    

    

19. PolarPro Peter McKinnon VND MK2 (2-5 & 6-9 stops) [29:05]

New variable ND filters that show significant improvement in image quality.

• Received Filters:
  • PolarPro sent the 82mm Peter McKinnon VND Mark II (non-mist version), including 2-5 stop and 6-9 stop variants.
• Quality Improvement:
  • Expresses high satisfaction with the quality, noting crisp and clean images that retain sharpness.
  • A significant upgrade from his previous Nisi 1-5 VND, which exhibited color shifts (magenta) and inconsistency from 3-5 stops.
• Consistent Performance:
  • The PolarPro filters are "very consistent" across their stop range.
  • While they lean slightly warm, a single color correction adjustment is usually sufficient.
• Future Use:
  • Will continue extensive testing before fully incorporating them into client work.
  • Impressed by their performance so far, contrasting with his past dissatisfaction with Nisi True Color filters.