Just announced, Milwaukee will be coming out with two models of the M-Spector AV, the 2311-21 (17mm head) and 2312-21 (9.5mm head). The M-Spector AV is designed to compete directly with the Ridgid SeeSnake Micro Explorer which has been a tremendous success. The M-Spector AV features match up with the Explorer including 3.5” screen with 320×240 resolution. Both have the ability to record voice over videos, the Milwaukee does comes with a 2GB memory card vs the Ridgid with a small internal memory and mail away to get a Free 2GB card (but $9.95 anywhere). The Milwaukee unit has the ability to rotate live or captured images but it does not mention anything about digital self leveling which is a huge feature of the Ridgid Explorer. The Explorer also has expansion slots which could include upgrades for thermal imaging at some point down the road which I am not sure the Milwaukee offers. Pricing information is not available yet, I imagine it will be in line with the Explorer’s price of $690 or perhaps below. The M-Spector AV is also part of the Milwaukee M12 line, one of the fastest growing and most successful cordless power tool lines on the market today.
I imagine most plumbers will stick with the Ridgid product for the digital self leveling and the fact that it works with the Ridgid MicroDrain to go through toilet traps. That being said the reason the Ridgid Explorer has been so successful is that it has opened up so many new markets. From HVAC, remodelers, electricians, mechanics, inspection, safety, maintenance staff to Biologists studying prairie dogs in Wyoming, the audience is wide open for these new borescope cameras.
