So, a Viltrox speed booster killed another one of my cameras (my Panasonic G85). Previously, I published a YouTube video about how the “Canon-mount” version (the EF-M2ii) killed my Panasonic GX85 and how I switched to using the all-manual, Nikon-mount version (the NF-43x) but the bad news is the “Nikon" version killed my G85 (scratched the sensor).

So, in this episode, we dive into our experiences with speed boosters for micro four-thirds cameras (and especially the ones with IBIS). We discuss the pros and cons of brands like Viltrox and Metabones, sharing personal anecdotes about how two of our cameras were damaged with these accessories. We highlight the importance of testing compatibility with different cameras and lenses, and the impact of stabilized sensors (pun intended, sort of). We talk about our goal to find affordable camera solutions to build a reliable two-camera setup for our work in video production and photography, emphasizing the need for accurate testing to avoid problems.

Introduction to Speed Boosters (00:00:00)

Discusses the speaker's experiences with speed boosters for micro four-thirds cameras.

Third Brand Introduction: Pixco (00:01:21)

Introduces Pixco as a lesser-known brand of focal reducers and their compatibility issues.

Testing Compatibility (00:02:28)

Highlights the importance of testing lens compatibility with adapters to avoid issues.

Focal Reducer Market Overview (00:03:32)

Discusses the price differences and recommendations for various focal reducers.

Camera Damage Anecdote (00:04:33)

Shares a personal story about damaging a camera while using a speed booster.

Issues with Electronic Controls (00:05:29)

Describes problems with the camera's shutter speed control after using certain adapters.

Nikon Mount Experience (00:06:39)

Relates the experience of using a Nikon mount speed booster and subsequent camera damage.

Sensor Movement Explanation (00:07:40)

Explains how stabilized sensors can lead to issues with focal reducers.

Metabones Compatibility Chart (00:08:48)

Discusses Metabones' approach to compatibility with different camera bodies.

Canon Mount Problems (00:09:58)

Details issues faced with a Canon mount speed booster and its impact on camera performance.

Glitches and Corrupt Files (00:12:13)

Describes file corruption and glitches experienced with the camera after using the speed booster.

Recommendation Changes (00:14:24)

Announces the withdrawal of recommendations for specific speed boosters due to reliability concerns.

Current Camera Status (00:15:37)

Updates on the speaker's current camera situation after recent damages.

Testing New Lenses (00:17:47)

Plans to test new lenses in light of current equipment limitations.

Budget Camera Strategy (00:19:05)

Discusses the strategy of maintaining a two-camera setup under a budget of $600 per camera.

Future Camera Aspirations (00:20:10)

Explores potential upgrades to newer camera models while keeping costs low.