SmallRig Cage for Sony FX30 FX3 with Cable Clamp for HDMI, Classic Bright Black Surface, Included Cold Shoe and NATO Rail, Modular Design Compatible with Original XLR Handle

I've slowly been piecing together my rig and recently decided to get a cage. I did some research and decided this would be the best choice for me. I like that the NATO rail hung over the front a bit and didn't cover the hot shoe mount. I also liked the additional cable clamp for the HDMI port.I discovered that the handle I had previously purchased did not fit on the NATO rail. The rail is just slightly larger than the handle groove. So I had to install the handle's NATO rail on top of the SmallRig NATO rail. This isn't ideal and I wish I had a HawkLock handle. Also I was hoping to use the hot shoe mount for the DJI Mic 2 receiver with adapter (so that I wouldn't need to use a cable), but there isn't enough room to use a handle and the adapter. So while the NATO rail does allow for the hot shoe mount to be exposed, I don't see how you could use a handle and the mount at the same time.The cable clamp isn't that convenient if you plan to frequently assemble/dissemble the rig. I didn't have time to fiddle with it and ended up removing the clamp. I am not currently using it, but I will try to give it a second chance.

The SmallRig Modular Camera Cage 3196 is a highly versatile and customizable solution designed to enhance the functionality and protection of your camera setup. This cage is suitable for a wide range of cameras and offers an array of features that make it an essential accessory for professional filmmakers and videographers. Let’s delve into the key features, benefits, and performance of the SmallRig Modular Camera Cage 3196.Key Features1. Universal Compatibility:The SmallRig Modular Camera Cage 3196 is compatible with various camera models, making it a versatile choice for different shooting needs. Its adjustable design ensures a snug fit for cameras of different sizes.2. Robust Construction:Constructed from high-quality aluminum alloy, this camera cage is both lightweight and durable. It provides excellent protection for your camera while maintaining a manageable weight, crucial for handheld shooting and portability.3. Modular Design:The modular design of the cage allows you to customize it according to your specific requirements. You can add or remove components like top handles, side handles, and extension arms to suit different shooting scenarios.4. Multiple Mounting Points:The cage features numerous 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 threaded holes, allowing you to attach a variety of accessories such as microphones, monitors, lights, and other gear. This flexibility ensures that you can build a fully customized rig tailored to your workflow.5. NATO Rails and Cold Shoe Mounts:Integrated NATO rails and cold shoe mounts provide additional attachment points for accessories. These features enhance the overall functionality of the cage, making it easier to add and adjust equipment quickly.6. Ergonomic Design:Designed with ergonomics in mind, the SmallRig Modular Camera Cage 3196 ensures comfortable handling during extended shooting sessions. The cage’s form-fitting design offers secure grip and easy access to camera controls.BenefitsEnhanced Protection:The robust aluminum construction provides excellent protection for your camera, safeguarding it against accidental bumps and drops. This protection is especially important for on-the-go shooting and challenging environments.Improved Rig Customization:The modular design and multiple mounting points allow for extensive customization. Whether you need a compact setup for run-and-gun shooting or a full-featured rig for studio production, this cage adapts to your needs.Increased Accessory Compatibility:With numerous threaded holes, NATO rails, and cold shoe mounts, the cage offers vast compatibility with various accessories. This compatibility ensures that you can expand your rig with essential gear to enhance your shooting capabilities.Comfortable and Secure Handling:The ergonomic design and secure grip make it easy to handle the camera during long shooting sessions. This comfort is crucial for maintaining steady shots and reducing fatigue.PerformanceIn terms of performance, the SmallRig Modular Camera Cage 3196 excels in providing a stable and customizable platform for your camera. Users have praised its robust build quality, ease of customization, and the ability to attach multiple accessories. The cage’s lightweight design does not compromise durability, making it a reliable choice for both indoor and outdoor shoots.ConclusionThe SmallRig Modular Camera Cage 3196 is an outstanding accessory for filmmakers and videographers looking to enhance their camera setup. Its universal compatibility, robust construction, and modular design make it a versatile and reliable choice for various shooting scenarios. Whether you’re capturing dynamic action shots or detailed studio footage, this camera cage offers the protection, customization, and functionality you need.Pros:Universal camera compatibilityDurable and lightweight aluminum constructionModular and customizable designMultiple mounting points for accessoriesNATO rails and cold shoe mountsErgonomic and secure handlingCons:May require additional accessories for specific configurations

Like the title says, this cage is super important to all of the work I do. It makes rigging up my FX3 so much easier, and I've never run into an issue with it.I love the Nato rail on the side, its fits my side handle perfectly. I also really appreciate that the HDMI clamp is included, its a very delicate part of the camera so having the piece of mind that it wont be ripped out is well worth it.The only gripe I have is i notice that sometimes the screws can come loose after a full day of shooting. Luckily it has a tool that its held in with magnets that makes tightening things up on the fly super easy.

I had SmallRig a cage on my Sony a6300 for years, and it saved my camera from a lot of abuse. You can see it in the dings and scratches that have accumulated on the cage over time. When I upgraded to the FX30, this cage is one of the first things I ordered, and apparently SmallRig has come a long way since I bought my first cage.A lot of thought has been put into this. They've made a minimalist cage while also packing it with smart design choices:- Along with the included NATO rail, there's also one integrated into the side of the cage, ready to have the side-handle of your choice attached, out-of-the-box. The NATO rail they include does have a stopper pin to prevent anything that might come loose from sliding off the rail.- They were able to follow the body lines of the base of the camera without obstructing the battery door by allowing part of the cage to be pushed out when you need to change batteries. This swinging arm doesn't feel like something that will become loose - you do have to push it open.- They've included a tool on the bottom of the camera so you can tighten the three screws that secure the cage. It's slotted in and magnetized to hold it in place until you need it.- The base of the cage itself is a tripod plate. I was delighted when I realized this.The only drawback I can think of is that the screws holding the cage onto the camera have loosened up a bit on me, and required tightening. Fortunately they've included that tool on the body, and you can always you a little loctite to secure things down in a semi-permanent fashion.

Love this cage. Left of the top rail so I can run the XLR grip. Love the integrated flathead in the base and the NATO rail to easily mount this to my ball head tripod.