Bebob unveiled an innovative power accessory at NAB 2024. The MLmicro combines several interesting abilities. The MLmicro can be used as a V-Mount pass-through, adding useful USB, D-Tap, and LEMO ports. Its internal battery lets it operate independently and also allows for hot swapping. The device is well built, encased in a robust aluminum chassis with smart indicators and a useful onboard mini LED torchlight.Modern filmmaking requires power, be it independent cinema, documentary, or commercial – and not only for cameras. Monitors, recorders, on-camera lights, transmitters, etc. all require some “juice”. NAB 2024 brought some interesting innovations and evolutions in that regard, and Bebob is joining the fray with the clever, well-built MLmicro.Bebob MLmicro on a Sony BURANO. Image credit: CineDPower and featuresThe Bebob MLmicro is a micro V-Mount compatible battery/adapter with male and female V-Mounts. The LMmicro can perform as a pass-through device between a battery and a camera, light fixture, etc. To this clever mediator, Bebob managed to cram quite a lot: 43Wh (14.4V / 3Ah) batteryUSB-C (PD3) 45W (5V; 9V; 12V; 15V / 3A)USB-A 7.5W (5V / 1.5A)Two D-Tap ports, 14.4V unregulated / 5A (per output)Three 2-pin Lemo ports 14.4V unregulated / 2A (per output)Indication lightPower switchFlashlightRechargeable through V-Mount, D-Tap, or USB-CBebob MLmicro multiple ports. Image credit: CineDAll these features are neatly tucked inside a flush aluminum casing weighing 580g/1.27lbs, small enough to fit onto most compact V-Mount cine cameras, and I suspect it will find a spot on many hybrid rigs.Price and availabilityThe Bebob MLmicro will set you back €1,198 or $1,298. While not extremely affordable compared with similar products, the MLmicro is built to very high standards. “Made in Germany” isn’t the most common trait of most competitors, and while objective specs don’t show it, there’s huge value in it. When taking cine gear costs into perspective, and when considering the importance of high-quality manufacturing regarding battery and camera power safety, it may not seem that expensive.Bebob MLmicro indication light. Image credit: CineDWill you use the Bebob MLmicro with a V-Mount cine camera? Would you prefer it on a hybrid rig? Let us know in the comments.
