Super8 Sound Barney / Blimp Kit

Super8 Sound Barney / Blimp Kit

A major problem that limits serious professional applications of Super 8 sync sound filmmaking is the high noise level of most Super 8 cameras. Even the most expensive and sophisticated cameras have a noise level as high as 56db above the threshold of hearing at three feet. Super8 Sound has developed a barney which reduces camera noise between six and eight decibels.

The Super8 Sound Silencer is a fine leather barney lined with a sheet of lead surrounded by advanced acoustic foam. In addition to reducing noise, the Silencer serves as a sturdy protective case against shock and the elements. The leather and foam insulate the camera from low temperatures, extending battery life in cold weather.

The footage counter is visible through a window, and the Silencer snaps open easily for quick change of the Super 8 cartridge. Exposure can be set without removing the Silencer, and extensions of the zoom buttons allow operation of the electric zoom. Holes are provided for sync cable connections.

Super8 Sound has also developed the Silencer Kit, a do-it-yourself kit of materials that includes the same advanced foam/lead combination as our Silencers, a vinyl outer covering, Velcro-type fasteners, etc. Extensive instructions are included, with a basic design pattern suited to Super 8 cameras with the typical box-shaped body. The Kit is usable with the following cameras:

ARGUS/COSINA 736, 738, 710
BAUER C ROYAL 8E, 10E
BOLEX 250, 280
CANON 814E, 1014E
GAF ST/802, 1002
ELMO 11OR
LEICINA SUPER RT1, SPECIAL
MINOLTA AUTOPAK 8 D10
NIKON R8, R1O
NIZO S480, S560, S800
ROLLEI SL84
SANKYO CME-1100

A larger Kit, with twice the material, is intended for use with larger cameras such as the Canon DS8. (Instructions from 1975, kit no longer available) You can download a high-resolution scan of the entire Super8 Sound Barney / Blimp Kit manual (5.4MB file).