Sliding Endlessly With The Tango Roller

The Prosup Tango Roller is neither a slider nor a glider but it has the same functions.

The two main disadvantages of most ball bearing slider/glider systems are the noise and more importantly the slightly rough, in any case noticeable, movement. Having a much smoother travel performance, we call the Tango "a roller" as – like a dolly – it runs on special rubber wheels rather than ball bearings.

A big asset of the Tango Roller is the amazing transitions of its tracks. While most sliders can't be extended at all, the Tango can be extended indefinitely as passing the joints is absolutely jerk-free and smooth. Laying the tracks, however, is so much simpler than with a classic dolly and can easily be done by a single person.

Nine out of 10 Tangos are ordered as "Tango Pelicase Kits" making the whole tool pretty complete. The Kit includes two tracks of 3 and 4 ft, 3 crossbars with levelling feet, 2 Monopods and another highlight – two magnetic end stops.

Every cameraman focussed on the scene will come to appreciate the simple but ingenious idea of repelling magnets. Approaching the track's end can be felt by an increasing resistance – catching a glimpse not necessary; cutting in post not necessary.

As unlimited as the Tango's tracking performance are its accessories. Just take the Tango Beam which can be placed onto light stands and raised over the set. The Tango, with its self-securing roller coaster way of operating, can now be used upside down in an underslung mode. The Tango can be seen at NAB, booth C10618 (CueScript booth).

Image credit: Tango Roller on Tango Beam – courtesy of Rheinklang, Cologne.

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This article is also available to read at BFV online here, page 51.

(JP/LM)