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BZBGear simply won’t stop.
I had a chance to play around with the BG-Commander-Pro last summer, and it was beyond impressive, but this new BG-Commander-G2 looks like a massive step up, even though it’s the second-gen of the Commander-Pro’s little brother.
Let’s talk some numbers first—250 cameras. At one time. I’m not sure what production would need that many cameras going, but what a flex, right? That’s some wild nonsense. Other interesting numbers are the control capabilities—the cam offers RS232, RS422, and RS485 connections alongside the standard IP connection, so there’s a lot of flexibility no matter the hardware you’re trying to work with. Obviously, BZB Gear always plays well with other BZB gear, but if you have other cams that are compatible (which is basically any camera) then you’re in business.
I’m also seeing a simplified control layout that feels immediately cleaner than the Commander-Pro, along with a chunkier PTZ controller, which will make for easier handling on touchy lenses, zooms, pans, and tilts.
As always, I’m a huge fan of the matte texturing on the full metal chassis. BZB Gear prices are approachable (this things comes in at just $799), but the company doesn’t skimp on build quality. This looks to be built like a tank, and that’s great news for church production leaders. Let’s be honest: not all of our volunteers are careful all of the time, but it doesn’t look like you’ll need to worry if this thing gets banged around a bit. For any church in a mobile set-up, that’s particularly great news.
Another external detail I’m also pumped about—the traditional BZB orange is missing. I love gear that’s easy to hide, and this controller is stealthy.
The five-inch touch screen is also a huge step up for this second-gen of the Commander series, and the touch screen was my favorite feature of the Commander-Pro, so I’m glad to see it here. Given that there’s no HDMI out for some kind of multi-cam view, the big touch screen will make the operator's job a lot easier.
Overall, the BG-Commander-G2 appears to be a handsome, over-powered, versatile controller that promises to serve any church well, even if they’re on a budget. Hopefully, we’ll get to play with one soon and we can tell you more about it.
