RED has officially announced the V-RAPTOR 8K VV [X] and V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV [X]. Essentially these are exactly the same as the current versions, with the exception that they come with a global shutter and a few other improvements.
Check out the new V-RAPTOR [X] and V-RAPTOR XL [X], the world’s first available large-format global shutter cinema cameras.
— RED Digital Cinema (@RED_Cinema) January 30, 2024
LEARN MORE on https://t.co/urxv6Q8fol pic.twitter.com/C9eGA6XtVd
Key features
- Global Shutter Full-Frame VV Sensor
- Lightweight & Compact DSMC3 Design
- Locking Canon RF Lens Mount
- Global Vision with Extended Highlights
- Phantom Track for Ghost Frame, Remapping
- Supports up to 8K120, 800MB/s Video
- 17+ Stops of Dynamic Range
- Right-Side Assistant’s User Interface
- REDCODE Raw HQ, MQ & LQ Options
- USB-C & Dual 12G-SDI Ports
The base of the V-RAPTOR 8K VV [X] is still centered around the V-RAPTOR brain and it features all of the same capabilities, recording modes, frame rates, etc.
The base of the V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV [X] is still centered around the V-RAPTOR brain, which features auxiliary power and mounting options, as well as features such as internal ND filters, a dedicated lens mount system, wireless genlock and timecode, and more video outputs.
Sensor
The V-RAPTOR XL [X] and V-RAPTOR [X] both feature a 8192 x 4320 Global Shutter Full-Frame VV Sensor with a claimed 17+ stops of dynamic range.
RED does have a long history of exaggerating its dynamic range numbers so we will wait and see what the independent evaluations say.
A global shutter is handy when tracking fast-moving shots at regular frame rates and shutter speeds. At higher frame rates and shutter speeds, the value of a global shutter does somewhat get negated.
Global shutter is also very handy when dealing with scenes where there are strobing lights, or camera flashes going off. It can also make a big difference when shooting material for VFX and in virtual production environments.
Global shutter CMOS sensors utilize an electronic signal that can quickly turns off each pixel simultaneously, preventing light from being captured. When the shutter opens, the light hits the sensor so the entire scene is captured at once. Conversely, rolling shutter CMOS sensors scan the sensor line by line, capturing the image sequentially and not all at once.
RED has also introduced its Global Vision suite of tools that uses the global shutter sensor to offer even greater flexibility and ease of use throughout your production process.
These tools include Extended Highlights mode which is said to allow the camera to see color and detail into extreme highlights like never before, providing even softer and more subtle highlight roll-off when in uncontrollable environments. Global Vision’s Extended Highlights is said to offer over 3 stops of additional dynamic range. RED claims an overall dynamic range of over 20 stops when using this mode.
It would be interesting to know if RED is using something similar to HDRx to create this Extended Highlights mode.
HDRx was a proprietary HDR video solution that was invented for the RED EPIC and SCARLET cameras. It works by recording two exposures within the interval that a standard motion camera would record only one.
The primary exposure is normal, and uses the standard aperture and shutter settings (the “A frame”). The secondary exposure is typically for highlight protection, and uses an adjustable shutter speed that is 2-6 stops faster (the “X frame”). For example, if the A frame is captured at 24 fps and 1/50 second shutter speed, then specifying 2 stops HDRx causes the X frame to be captured at a shutter speed of 1/200 second.
A higher HDRx setting can make the blend more difficult since the A and X frames have less in common. RED states that, when possible, it’s also always better to expose optimally using single exposures than to use HDRx to compensate for poor technique. Similarly, in post-production, it is easy to take the HDR effect too far. If an object was darker than the sky in the original scene, footage will lose its sense of realism if this tonal hierarchy is reversed in post-production.
An added benefit of HDRx is that it can also be used to control motion blur, which varies proportional to the shutter speed difference between the A and X frames. A 3-stop HDRx setting will mean that the blur distance in the X frame is an eighth of what it is in the A frame, for example.
HDRx is easier and more cost effective than utilizing something like Dual Gain sensor architecture has been used by ARRI in their Alev III, and now Alev IV sensors for more than 13 years. Canon also uses a similar system in some of their latest cameras.
A DGO sensor produces images optimized for HDR by creating two images. One prioritizes saturation in the highlight areas and the other prioritizes lower noise in the shadows and dark areas. Essentially each photodiode is being read out at two separate gains. This creates two signals for each photodiode which are then blended to produce an image that has both high dynamic range and low levels of noise. Noise is greatly reduced because the Dual Gain Output signal is taken directly from the sensor and before any image processing takes place.
HDRx can be pushed further than a DGO sensor, but DGO requires more power and it is more costly to make. DGO is arguably a better and safer way to do things because it doesn’t produce any image artifacts.
The Phantom Track function was designed to streamline any virtual production workflow using GhostFrame or frame remapping, capturing R3D clips for each subframe slice in addition to enabling monitoring of either slice live on set over each SDI output. This enables your director and talent to work with the aid of a greenscreen background while the VF/X team can simultaneously view the frame without having to view or lock in that background. Phantom Track can also be used when applying dedicated ad overlays during a live broadcast.
Weight
The V-RAPTOR XL [X] weighs 7.99 lbs / 3.62kg. As a comparison, the V-RAPTOR [X] tips the scales at 4.03 lbs / 1.82kg. They maintain the same small and versatile form factor of the DSMC3 platforms.
Recording Options
Above, you can see what resolutions and frame rates that the cameras can capture. As far as recording media is concerned, they both utilize a single slot CFexpress Type B card.
Ok, so let’s look in a little more detail about what you get as standard with the V-RAPTOR XL VV [X].
There is an interchangeable PL mount with an optional EF mount camera, internal electronic ND filters that range from 2 to 7 stops. This isn’t a variable eND system, but there are selectable 1/3-, 1/2-, or 1-stop intervals you can choose from. Each brain comes default with a PL lens mount, and it includes a PL mount shim pack, an AC power adapter, and an XLR power cable.
The camera comes with either an Anton Bauer Gold or V-mount battery plate, and its power output options include the following:
- Regulated 12V outputs
- Regulated 24V outputs,
- Two 3A combined D-TAP outputs
- Three 2-pin multiple voltage outputs
- One 3-pin 3A Fischer
The camera offers dual-voltage battery support and it is compatible with a wide range of common batteries found on set today, including both 14 V batteries and high-voltage 26 V V-Lock or Gold Mount options
The video outputs include 3x 12G-SDI (6G/3G/1.5G-SDI modes), 1x 3G/1.5G-SDI output, and a DSMC3 Touch 7″ LCD monitor connector. The 12G/6G-SDI ports are capable of sending out up to DCI 4K60p resolution signals. The camera has physical genlock, timecode, and control ports, however, users can also utilize wireless genlock and timecode. The camera also includes 5-pin audio input ports, built-in dual microphones, 3D LUT import, and wired control via USB Type-C.
Improved Audio
RED is stating that newly engineered audio hardware provides cleaner and clearer audio when connecting external microphones.
Price & Availability
The RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV [X] is now available to pre-order for $44,995 USD. As a comparison, the current RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV retails for $39,500 USD. So, essentially you are paying an extra $5,495 USD for the version with a global shutter.
The RED V-RAPTOR 8K VV [X] is now available to pre-order for $29,995 USD. As a comparison, the current RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV retails for $24,995 USD.
I would imagine that RED will also be making a V-RAPTOR XL 8K S35 [X] and a V-RAPTOR 8K S35 [X] in the future.
With the V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV [X] Production Pack, in addition to the brain you get the following:
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA V-RAPTOR XL [X] 8K VV Camera (V-Mount)
- V-RAPTOR XL PL Mount
- V-RAPTOR XL PL Mount Shim Pack
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA AC Power Adapter Pack for RANGER
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA 3-Pin XLR to 4-Pin 2B DC Power Cable (10′)
- Limited 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- 2 x RED DIGITAL CINEMA 2TB PRO CFexpress 2.0 Type B Memory Card
- Lifetime Data Protection
- Limited 3-Year Warranty (must be activated with Angelbird within 30 days of purchase)
- Limited 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty (must be activated with Angelbird within 30 days of purchase)
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA CFexpress Card Reader
- USB Type-C 3.2 Cable
- USB Type-A to Type-C Adapter
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- 4 x RED DIGITAL CINEMA REDVOLT XL-V Battery (156Wh, V-Mount)
- Limited 90-Day Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA Compact Dual Battery Charger (V-Mount)
- Power Cable
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0″ LCD Monitor (Direct Mount)
- Arm
- DSMC3 RMI Cable
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA V-RAPTOR XL Riser Plate (15mm & 19mm Studio)
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA V-RAPTOR XL Top Handle with Extensions
- Extension (1″)
- Extension (3″)
- Extension (5″)
- Elbow Piece
- 15mm Monitor Mount
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA DSMC3 5-Pin to Dual XLR 3-Pin Adapter
- Right-Angle Mounting Bracket
- 2 x 1/4″-20 Mounting Screw
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA Top 15mm LWS Rod Support Bracket for V-RAPTOR XL
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA Bottom 15mm LWS Rod Support Bracket for V-RAPTOR XL
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA DSMC3 RMI Cable (18″)
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA Hood for DSMC3 RED Touch 7″ LCD
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
The V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV [X] Production Pack is $54,995 USD.
With the V-RAPTOR 8K VV [X] Starter Pack, in addition to the brain you get the following:
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV Camera (V-Mount)
- AC Power Adapter (150W)
- Mini World Traveler Adapter Kit
- Limited 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA 2TB PRO CFexpress 2.0 Type B Memory Card
- Lifetime Data Protection
- Limited 3-Year Warranty (must be activated with Angelbird within 30 days of purchase)
- Limited 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty (must be activated with Angelbird within 30 days of purchase)
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA CFexpress Card Reader
- USB Type-C 3.2 Cable
- USB Type-A to Type-C Adapter
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- 2 x RED DIGITAL CINEMA REDVOLT MICRO-V Battery (98Wh, V-Mount)
- Limited 90-Day Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA Compact Dual Battery Charger (V-Mount)
- Power Cable
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0″ LCD Monitor (Direct Mount)
- Arm
- DSMC3 RMI Cable
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- RED DIGITAL CINEMA EXT-to-Timecode Cable (3′)
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- 2 x RED DIGITAL CINEMA V-RAPTOR Wing Grip
- Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
Optional Accessories
RED has also announced all new accessories including the RED Compact EVF Pack and V-RAPTOR Advanced V-Lock Plus & Gold Mount Adapter Plus battery adapters. The EVF Pack is available to order for $4,950 USD (standalone EVF: $3,450 USD).
RED DIGITAL CINEMA RED Compact EVF
Key features
- 1920 x 1080 OLED Display
- -2.5 to +2.5 Adjustable Diopter
- Customizable Function Buttons
- Quick Access Tools, Camera Settings
- 1/4″-20 Mount Plate
- Eyecup Mounting System
The RED DIGITAL CINEMA RED Compact EVF is designed as a single cable monitoring device for DSMC3 camera systems. It has a 1920 x 1080 resolution OLED display with customizable function buttons capable of quickly accessing tools like peaking or magnify. The buttons can also toggle different camera settings like ISO, frames per second, and white balance. The EVF has an adjustable diopter with a -2.5 to +2.5 correction range and includes a 1/4″-20 mount plate for third-party compatibility. Use the updated eyecup mounting system to replace the built-in eyecup when necessary. Its good to see a new EVF being released.
The Advanced Adapter Plus, available soon for $1768 USD, will be sold with the V-RAPTOR Tactical Top Plate and includes all new features including a 6-Pin DC-IN port for continuous power to camera and auxiliary power outputs for additional flexibility and use with external power sources.
Other RED accessories include a titanium EF mount, a riser plate, a top handle, a top 15mm LWS rod support bracket, a bottom 15mm LWS rod support bracket, a REDVOLT 12-24V V-mount battery, and a REDVOLT 12-24V Gold mount battery.
There are also two versions of an extended warranty available that can be purchased. This can be done during the initial 2-year standard warranty period or after the initial warranty period.
Thoughts
RED have arguably been slowly been trying to pivot their business strategy, especially when it comes to cameras by reducing prices and offering more affordable options than they previously did. If you look at the KOMODO and KOMODO-X, they are by far RED’s most affordable cameras, however, the V-RAPTOR models are not an affordable camera for a lot of people. In saying that, they are a lot more affordable than high end options from Sony and ARRI.
RED’s whole premise was (or used to be) ‘OBSOLESCENCE OBSOLETE‘ where the promise was users would be able to keep existing bodies and be able to use new sensors as they came out. That never really materialized in most cases.
RED states that remain committed to its filmmaker-first approach with upgrade programs available for current V-RAPTOR and V-RAPTOR XL owners to move into the [X] systems featuring RED Global Vision. Current V-RAPTOR and V-RAPTOR XL owners can upgrade directly via RED. The upgrade program is priced at $12,500 USD for both V-RAPTOR 8K VV and V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV customers. The upgrade is more than a sensor upgrade as it includes supplemental board upgrades and modifications to support the more powerful V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV Global Shutter sensor. This includes: improved audio performance, reflection mitigation, extended highlights, and phantom track. During the upgrade, the exterior panels and RF Lock Ring (if applicable) will be updated to match the new V-RAPTOR [X] design.
It is good to see that RED has brought back their upgrade program, at least for the V-RAPTOR.
RED used to have higher resolution cameras than other manufacturers, but that is no longer the case. There are quite a lot of cameras on the market now that are now capable of recording in 8K. Not only can these cameras record 8K, but some of them are also available at relatively low prices. You can’t win over consumers anymore with resolution hype, you have to offer something else to be competitive. By offering 8K cameras with a global shutter they have arguably done this.
Yes, the camera offers some pretty impressive high frame rates, but so does the Blackmagic Design URSA Mini Pro 12K with OLPF which is only $6,395 USD. Will the global shutter be enticing enough to make people want to purchase the V-RAPTOR [X] or V-RAPTOR XL [X]? RED has always quoted, let’s say, very optimistic dynamic range figures for its cameras so there is no reason to believe that this camera will actually have anywhere near the claimed 17+ stops of DR, especially when most global shutter CMOS sensor cameras have less DR then their rolling shutter counterparts. In saying that, both cameras are bound to have dynamic range that will meet most users requirements.
The biggest selling point is undoubtedly the global shutter, high resolution and high frame rates. However, for a lot of applications, people don’t need high frame rates, high resolution, or a global shutter. I certainly think the V-RAPTOR [X] and V-RAPTOR XL [X] are interesting cameras and they will probably sell reasonably well, but have they actually moved the bar enough?
What do you think about the RED V-RAPTOR [X] and V-RAPTOR XL [X]? Would you buy one? Let us know in the comments section below.
