Super 8 Pro518 with Meter Mod
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Auto Exposure Meter Modification
Upgraded with a modern internal voltage regulator; you’ll never need to fuss with a separate meter again. The old system relied on battery voltage, which made consistent calibration nearly impossible. With this mod, the meter now runs off the camera’s AA batteries, giving it a steady, regulated power source for reliable performance.
The auto-exposure system is set up for two film speeds—50 and 200 ASA—and it also works great with 500 ASA. At 500, you’ll get about one stop of overexposure, which most filmmakers find adds a nice margin of safety.
Optical Integrity
Over the decades, aging lenses can develop fungus, old lubricants may break down and spray across the glass, and some elements simply deteriorate with time.
The 518 has been fully serviced to ensure optical integrity. Damaged elements have been cleaned or replaced, and the lens has been professionally re-collimated using modern color negative film.
The result is a sharp, clean performance that takes full advantage of today’s film stocks. This camera has the original uncoated lens glass which has exceptional optical characteristics.
New Eye Cup Design
If you’ve ever seen these cameras for sale, you’ll notice they’re almost always missing the eyecup. The eyecup is critical for blocking out stray light, allowing you to clearly see through the viewfinder and focus accurately—especially in bright conditions.
For this restoration, we created a brand-new 3D-designed eyecup, giving the camera the viewing experience it always should have had.
Best In Class Features
Film Tested
Nothing substitutes for a real film test. With so many moving parts—optics, mechanics, and electronics—the only way to be sure everything works together is to run film through the camera. Every Pro8mm rebuild is film-tested and analyzed by a technician to guarantee performance.
Re-Labeled for Clarity
We add new labels to our restored cameras not just for looks, but for practicality. The label shows that key work—like lubrication, collimation, and meter calibration—has been completed. It also helps us (and you) quickly identify which modifications a camera has, and track how our upgrades have evolved.
Manual and Auto Exposure
The auto exposure has cartridge detection system that can read cartridges with ASA 50 to 500 ASA Notches.
85 Series Filter
The 85 series will produce natural colors when shooting tungsten film outdoors, preventing the bluish cast in the picture.
18 FPS Film Speed
Films at 18fps, and single frame shooting with the built in intervalometer.
Side Load
Side load technology for easy Super 8 cartridge use
Additional Camera Details
Included Accessories:
- Lens Cloth - Included
- Metal Lens Cap - Included
- Gate Brush - Included
- 4 AA Batteries - Included
- Rubber Eye Cup - Included
- Step-up 46-49mm Adapter - Included
Cameras come with a 90 Day Parts and Labor Warranty (excluding impact and water damage.) A 2 year extended warranty can be purchased, which extends the 90 day parts and labor warranty to a full two years. Excludes impact (ie dropping the camera) or water damage. Does not cover return shipping to/from Pro8mm if you need to send you camera back while its under warranty.
Extended Warranty
Coming Soon
We’ve been developing an external system to remotely control this Super 8 camera. The Camera Assist offers a programmable interval timer and a programmable self-timer, along with a precise frame-by-frame counter, giving filmmakers enhanced control and flexibility for complex shoots.
📒For a complete list of features, we recommend checking the original manual.
Camera FAQ
What is the Shipping Policy for Camera Purchases?
Most Pro8mm cameras are made to order. Canon cameras (814 & Rhonda CAM) may be in stock and available for immediate shipping, however please check with a sales associate if you need your camera to ship within a few business days. Our Classic Pro camera is made to order, and may take several weeks. Please call and speak to a sales associate if you have questions about turnaround time.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, Pro8mm has clients all over the world. Customers will be responsible for paying any applicable import duties and taxes. Charges may vary based on the contents of the order. Customers are advised to contact their local customs office for further information on current import regulations.
Can I pickup my order?
Yes. In store pickup is available at our Burbank, CA location and may be selected during checkout. A sales team member will contact you when your order is ready for pickup.
How are Pro8mm cameras different from other Super 8 cameras?
Pro8mm’s cameras are rebuilt original Super 8 cameras. They are artfully re-crafted by our in-house team of technicians with decades of experience. We repair all aspects of the camera, including internal-structures, body, battery systems and more, so you are getting the very best camera with characteristics that surpass the original factory specifications. The cameras are fully film tested and come with a 90 day warranty.
What camera models can you repair?
Pro8mm works on select Beaulieu and Canon camera models. We currently repair the Beaulieu 4008 series, Classic Pro, Canon 814 Auto Zoom, Canon 514xl, Canon 310xl, Pro814, RhondaCam and RhondaCam Deluxe.
What type of film does a max8 camera take?
Max8 cameras can shoot with any normal super 8 cartridge. This includes both pro8 and super 8 film stocks. The modification is in the camera, not the film. The advantage of shooting on max 8 is that you get 20% more image on the frame because it utilizes the area once reserved for the audio track.
Do the cameras record sound?
Super 8 Film stocks with the magnetic sound strip are no longer manufactured and therefore it is no longer possible to record sound directly onto the film using a super 8 camera. Our Classic Pro rentals are currently the only cameras we offer that can record sound using Crystal Sync. Using a separate audio recorder, the motors in these cameras are crystal-controlled to ensure consistency in the filming speed, so they remain in perfect synchronization with a sound recorder.
What if I have more questions?
If you need any additional help please see our full FAQ Page or feel free to contact us.