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Mutiny TC-R/S Breakout and Bolt-On Record Button R/S trigger for FX3 / FX30 / A7S III Review

Mutiny TC R:S module Tilta Rig

The Mutiny TC-R/S for Sony FX3, FX30, and A7S III camera feeds Timecode IN via BNC or 5-pin cable, depending on the model, and a 2-pin Fisher 3 record/stop trigger via the Sony camera’s Multiport terminal.

Works with all FIZ wireless follow focus systems such as the Preston, Arri, C-Motion, Nucleus, Heden, etc., and all timecode generators such as Tentacle, Deity, Deneke, and Ambient.

TC-R/S should trigger most Sony mirrorless cameras in video mode, but timecode will not work for the A7S series except mark III with the latest firmware, the A9 series, and the A7R series, etc.  

The kit adds versatility to the Sony FX3 / FX30 / A7S III camera when in a more professional environment with timecode device requirements and changing the record/stop button position or with a FIZ wireless follow focus system for triggering record wirelessly. Adding two essential features to the Sony Multi Port input is a feat.

If you build out a small camera, the usability changes, and having better options for the add-ons is helpful.

Mutiny TC RS Breakout

The main timecode run/stop hardware has some nice features. The 1/4 20″ mounting screw is spaced in the middle of the screw so it screws into the hardware and stays attached. This is helpful if you are storing the unit, as you won’t lose the mounting screw that is required. We have all been there before, searching for mounting screws.

It also features a removable anti-twisting pin for cages and hardware with an ARRI mounting design.  

A TC-R/S Mini mounting plate for the Sony FX3 is available if you don’t use a cage. The mount lets you position the module in different directions. It utilizes the anti-twisting pin as well for a secure fit.

Two Models

The kit is available in two models. One with BNC for timecode and another with a 5-pin Lemo.

Mutiny TC RS Breakout Device options
Two popular Timecode generators using the BNC cable option from Deity and Tentacle Sync

The current lineup of timecode devices, such as Deity TC-1 and Tentacle Sync E, offers many IO cable options, making it even easier to get them connected. Both offer velcro faster with accessories for mounting, like a cold shoe adapter or find a flat surface on your camera or cage and add a velcro patch for direct mounting.

Mutiny TC RS Breakout FX3 TC Deity
Deity TC-1 with a cold shoe attached to the Sony FX3 with Tilta cage

BNC version

Features for TC-R/S BNC version

  • BNC Timecode IN
  • Fischer 3 R/S port (pin 1 = Ground, Pin 2 = N/C, Pin 3 = R/S
  • 6″ Multi-terminal cable built-in
  • 1/4-20 through hole for mounting
  • 2x M3 threaded locating pin holes with spacing for ⌀15mm and ⌀10.4mm(ARRI) standards
  • Includes 1x 1/4-20 mounting captive screw and 1x removable locating pin 1.5mm

5pin version

Features for TC-R/S 5pin version

  • 5pin 0B Timecode IN port
  • Fischer 3 R/S port (pin 1 = Ground, Pin 2 = N/C, Pin 3 = R/S
  • 6″ Multi-terminal cable built-in
  • 1/4-20 through hole for mounting
  • 2x M3 threaded locating pin holes with spacing for ⌀15mm and ⌀10.4mm(ARRI) standards
  • Includes 1x 1/4-20 mounting screw and 1x removable locating pin 1.5mm
  • Size: L=1.3″ x W=0.7″  x D=1″  

FX3 / FX30 / A7S III Timecode Settings

For Timecode, change the FX3 / FX30 / A7S III Menu Settings to the following.

  • (1) In the Sony Menu select TC/UB then Timecode Run and select Free Run, and Time Code Make to Preset.
  • (2) Set your Timecode device and camera to the same frame rate
  • (3) Connect your Timecode device (make sure you are outputting timecode and using a cable that is TC device —> Camera) to your FX3/30 multi-terminal (multiport USB) 

Bolt-On Fischer 3 Record/Stop Module

The Bolt-On Fischer 3 is a record button run/stop trigger for triggering your camera on a grip, top handle, gimbal, and other rigs. It also works with any camera that has a Fischer 3 connector. 

The R/S module is crafted from a composite 3D printed material instead of metal, like the TC modular. This is probably due to cost; it is also extremely light and won’t add weight to the rig it’s used with.

The BOLT-ON V2 can be mounted using either 1/4-20 screws or M4 screws. A 1/4-20 screw is included. FISCHER 3 Straight or Right Angle is used with TC-R/S for Sony, ARRI, Sony VENICE, and other cameras with a Fischer 3 R/S

The cable is available in 12″ or 6″ and has a coiled cable option. This is great if you need to mount it farther away from the module or a Fisher 3 input on a cinema camera.

The Bolt-On Fischer 3 retails for $120 USD.

R/S for FX3 / FX30 / A7S III Menu Settings

For R/S Change your FX3 / FX30 / A7S III Menu settings to the following.
Menu -> Setup -> Operation Customize -> Rec w/Shutter -> On. 

Building Out with FX3 Tilta Rig

Mutiny TC RS module IO Rig 2

I have the Sony FX3 with a Tilta cage and accessories. I found it easy to add the Mutiny TC-R/S Breakout to it.

Mutiny TC RS module 1

While the record button isn’t inconvenient with the stock setup, having it on the handle is nice and doesn’t get in the way. If I was using a FIZ wireless follow focus unit, I could plug a Fischer 3 cable into it, and the FIZ can control record start and stop. All you need is the proper cable for your FIZ unit. Great to have options!

Thoughts

One thing I like about Mutiny is they are problem solvers. They create devices that make other devices work with your cameras. This requires a lot of research and testing as the breakout boxes are designed for several camera brands and models. They focus on professional applications that make prosumer cameras work much better on set for filmmaking and video production. If you have a need, chances are good Mutiny has a solution.

Pricing

The two products are sold separately and work seamlessly together. The downside to the multiport is you can’t use two devices with it directly, but the Mutiny TC and R/s module allows you to have both timecode and record trigger with the breakout module or attach the R/S input to a wireless focus system and trigger with the FIZ. The Bolt-On Fischer 3 Record/Stop Module costs $120 USD and the TC-R/S Breakout costs $125 USD.

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