I've got an original DJI Phantom with a gopro hero 3. I like it, but it was lacking in a few things that they've since fixed with the new models. Main thing it was lacking was a video downlink so you can see what the camera does. Second thing I found lacking was that there was no gimbal on the original, just a mounting point without even passive stabilization. Not impossible to work with by any means, just much easier when you can have the quad hover and move the camera versus having to move the quad to rotate the camera view. Of course, those two points kind of go hand in hand, what's the point of having a gimbal without being able to see where to point it?
Pretty much since I picked it up I've wanted to get a bigger and better multirotor, fix some of the things I found lacking. The Phantom v 1.3 and then the V2 have fixed most of the problems I had with the original, save the payload/camera. The Phantom just didn't have the lift for anything other than a gopro or similar small camera. DJI has recently released their new prosumer unit, the Inspire 1. Just a hair under $3k, so it's not cheap, but it has pretty much everything I can think of wanting on a camera copter without dragging the price tag above $5k. The Inspire, IMHO, is a good midpoint between the Phantom and something capable of hoisting a "serious" camera like a Canon 5d or a RED Epic. There's also the fact that the camera system from the inspire can be controlled by one person, with the option of splitting control. Most of the larger camera copters require two controllers, one for the copter, one for the camera system. When you're trying to deal with obstructions and making dynamic shots having the second person controlling the camera is very useful, but the option of being a solo flight is a big plus to me. Another interesting thing with the Inspire is that it has a second flight control camera that is on the belly pointing downward that interfaces with the flight controller for increased stability.
I'm probably going to purchase the Inspire, if I can't convince myself I need a bigger unit AND a good DSLR.
djm, not 100% positive, but that lift looks like a Bronto Skylift. Possibly an XR series. Awesome lifts, I was able to check out one of their HLA models at a fire show. 104 meter platform height with integrated waterway and able to hold 500 kg on the oversize platform.
I don't have too many photos from the DJI on this computer, but here's one of my backyard and another photo from playing at my mothers.
