After reviewing the Nikon ML-3 Compact Modulite Remote and the Vello FreeWave Plus remotes with more basic features, we now turn our attention to the Nikon MC-36 Multi-Function Remote which has been kindly provided to us by B&H Photo – the world’s largest photo and video equipment reseller where we buy most of our equipment.
1) Features
The Nikon MC-36 can be used as a remote release, a delayed shutter release, programmed as an intervalometer or to activate the bulb function on certain Nikon cameras. For those who may not be familiar with an intervalometer, it can be programmed to take a series of photos, with a preset length of exposure as well as time interval between exposures.
2) Handling
The unit works as one would expect and is straight forward to program using the multifunction button to set a delay if desired, the length of each exposure as well as the interval between the exposure and finally, the number of exposures. It can be set to a predetermined number of exposures (1-399) or it can repeat indefinitely.
The transmitter has an LCD screen which is backlit for operation in low light situations. It fits nicely in your hand and I found the controls to be responsive. The biggest drawbacks are related to the fact that is it a corded (approx.. 33.5 in./850mm in length) remote and unless you set it on a timer, you will have to remain next to the camera to operate it. Furthermore, the cord can move in wind creating unwanted vibrations in the camera. In order to achieve the least amount of vibration possible, a wireless remote used in conjunction with mirror lock-up is best.
3) Build Quality
Build quality is again similar to the ML-3 and other Nikon products with nice fit. I did find the buttons and controls on this device to have the nicest feel of the remotes in this series of reviews.
4) Packaging and Manual
The MC-36 comes with no carrying or storage case, just a simple basic manual describing care and programming.
5) Value
The programability of the MC-36 gives you more control than the previously reviewed Nikon ML-3 or Vello FreeWave remotes. However, it is still expensive for what you get considering it is a corded device, so I rate this as a relatively low value. In an upcoming review we will review the Wireless Vello ShutterBoss controller which has similar features in a wireless design for less money. If you do not mind a cord, then you could consider the non wireless version of the Vello ShutterBoss for less than half the cost of the Nikon MC-36.
6) Conclusion
With good third party wireless remotes such as the Vello Freewave Plus and Vello Shutterboss at a lower price ($59.95 and $99.50, respectively), it is hard to justify purchasing this particular remote at this price.
7) Where to Buy
B&H currently sells the Nikon MC-36 Multi-Function Remote for $124.95 (as of 05/08/2012)
About Tom Redd
I’ve bought exactly the same device (same case, same functions), only OEM from ebay, for ~50$. Nikon accessories are way overpriced.
Thanks for the review Tom. Ive been waiting for quite a while for a review from mansurovs.com for this product :)
Thank you.
You left out a very important flaw about this product – is only compatible with the Nikon full frame cameras :( correct me if im wrong.
Siddharth, the only requirement is a Nikon camera with a 10-pin connector. For instance, the D200 and D300 series cameras will work.
Thanks for the great review. I have the MC-36 and find it very useful. I do find the 10-pin connector hard to attach on my D3s. The biggest flaw is that there is no on-off switch, the only way to turn it off is to remove the batteries.
Tom, thanks for pointing that out. You are correct and the manual states, “The MC-36 is not equipped with an off switch. To reduce the drain on the batteries when the MC-36 is not in use, end shooting and check that the “TIMER ACTIVE” (
Hi Tom.
Thanks for these reviews. The cost of accessories does add up and it’s good to get an idea of where 3rd party options exist and where they are not worth it.
Have you seen the remote option from trigger trap? It’s either USD 20 or USD 400 depending on if you have to buy the iPhone to control it as well but it seems to have a lot of very good functions at a very low price – assuming you have the iPhone to start with.
Kind regards
Mark
Mark, thanks for the tip on the TriggerTrap. It appears that it is $9.99 for the app and $20 for the dongle and cable for the camera. It looks promising but the reviews I read on iTunes were limited. I will have to keep an eye out for more info.
Nikon accessories are way overpriced. I bought a JYC for $15 which seems identical to the OE version. Works on D90 among others.
Billy.
Hi,
Intervalometer – does this help me to program and shoot HDR shots upto 7 or 9 shots continuously with diff exposures ranging ( +4 to -4) or (+3 to -3) .. cause currently i have a D5000 camera, which allows me to take only max 3 shots with only (+2 to -2)
Chandra, your D5000 has a built in intervalometer. Look under the Shooting Menu and it is called, “Interval Timer Shooting”. The intervalometer allows you to take a series of shots at timed intervals for a preset number of exposures with a preset exposure duration. The MC-36 will not let you set it to change the exposure between shots, that is a function of your auto bracketing built into the camera, in your case the D5000.
Thank you.. will try that.
To be clear, neither the built in intervalometer nor the MC-36 will allow you to program changes to the exposure duration from one exposure to the next. The exposure duration will remain constant. The auto bracket function of the camera will allow you to adjust exposures but it is limited as you say in your original post.
Hi Tom,
Nice short info on MC-36 :) ,I have this MC-36 and only used it once on the F100.
Most DSLRs have built in intervalometer ,and wireless remotes are more easy and as the name says are wireless :) so, basically what purpose this corded one can do as for the D800 ?
I’m already using the tiny ML-L3 with the D5000 and D7000 and it works pretty fine,mostly I use it in mirror lock up mode.
I think it’s a nice product but the cord is very short.(for someone trying to control the camera from their tent) :)
cheers!
Hi Tom,
I am planning to buy this one but there was news that this model is withdrawn and will be shortly replaced by a different one. Am i right?
Nandha, the MC-36 has been replaced by the MC-36A which has updated materials and construction but the same functionality as I understand it.
Mine just now came in the mail, within the last hour or so. I’m currently looking all over the web for info on how to set it up. The manual is lacking to say the least.
Any words of advice?
Barry
OK, I got it. The little bar at the top! WOW!