RED KOMODO-X & V-RAPTOR [X] Z Mount

This doesn’t come as any big shock, but RED has announced that the KOMODO-X and V-RAPTOR [X] will now be available in Z mount. It was not a question of if, but when this would happen after Nikon’s acquisition of RED last year.

This is the first time we have seen hardware convergence between the technologies of both companies. The KOMODO-X and V-RAPTOR [X] were previously only available with a locking Canon RF Lens Mount.

“This marks the beginning of RED and Nikon’s collaborative products and it is the exciting first step in a new Z Cinema Series. By integrating the Z Mount, RED is providing more lens choices than ever before, empowering filmmakers with greater artistic flexibility. This development grants filmmakers the versatility of Nikon’s  innovative Z lineup and PL options, as well as access to F Mount glass and many popular vintage lenses.”

RED Digital Cinema CEO Keiji Oishi

What is interesting is that RED hasn’t discontinued the Canon RF mount versions of the KOMODO-X and V-RAPTOR [X] and you can still buy them with those mounts if you want.

Benefits of Z mount

The benefit of using Z mount is that it has the shortest flange depth of all the mounts and this allows you to adapt just about any lens to it. You can use any of Nikon’s Z mount lenses, older Nikon lenses with an adapter, or even Sony E mount lenses with an adapter. This makes it arguably more versatile than the Canon RF mount.

With a shallower flange depth and a wider diameter, the Nikon Z Mount enables lens designs with higher sharpness and superior aberration control. The Z lenses can deliver great low-light performance and edge-to-edge detail as well as autofocus performance on both the V-RAPTOR [X] and KOMODO-X cameras.

The new Z mount versions offer advanced features such as smooth iris control, customizable lens response, and adjustable auto focus speeds.

It may take some time for this to gain some traction as a lot of potential buyers probably won’t have Nikon Z mount glass, and instead, would need to use adapters.

For Nikon, this can only help increase sales of their Z mount lenses and it finally gets them into a different market. Nikon offers a large array of primes and zooms and there are more than 100 third-party options available from various other companies.

The following NIKKOR Z lens features are supported by RED’s Z mount cameras (some features may be lens specific):  
         

• Assignable Control Ring
• Control Ring Rotational Response
• Reversible Direction Focus and Control Rings
• Non-linear and Linear Focus Control
• Power Zoom Ring Response
• Swappable Control Ring and Focus Ring Positions
• Smooth Iris Control
• Power Zoom Switches and Speed
• Assignable Lens Function Buttons
• Built-in Teleconverters
• Lens VR
• Retractable lenses The following features are either partially supported or not supported as of the current firmware version 2.0: 
• Lens Display LCD supports Focal Length and Metric Focus Distance
• Focus Range Switches not supported
• Focus Memory Set and Recall Rings are not supported
• Lens Correction (Vignette, Distortion, and Chromatic Aberration) are not supported 

NIKKOR Z Lens Compatibility 

Generally, all Z lenses are compatible with RED’s Z mount camera bodies. V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV’s sensor is over 10% wider than the traditional 36x24mm Full Frame sensor found in Nikon’s Z bodies. For this reason, some lenses may exhibit greater than normal light fall off and distortion on the wider RED VV sensor. 

Most NIKKOR Z lenses will cover the 8K 16:9 (7680 x 4320) portion of the V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV sensor, although the acceptable level of vignetting will be subjective. V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV’s sensor can always be cropped into 7K if required. RED recommends users review the NIKKOR Z lens coverage section of the RED Tools webpage to view coverage when paired with RED sensors.   

Adapting from Z Mount

Due to the shallow flange focal distance of Z mount, it is highly adaptable. Some of the new lens mounts available to RED users through adapting from Nikon Z include digitally controlled Nikon F mount, Sony E, and mechanical Fujifilm X. This all while maintaining compatibility with digitally controlled Canon EF, PL, and mechanical Leica M, LPL and many more. 

The Nikon FTZ II unlocks the suite of legacy Nikon glass while providing aperture control, lens VR, and even auto focus on more modern G series F mount lenses. 

The RED Z to PL Adapter maintains the full /i compatibility found in the original V-RAPTOR [X] and KOMODO-X,but adds additional power capability through the lens interface to expand the number of lenses the camera can provide power to, such as Fujinon Servo Zooms.   

Compatible Smart Adapters (First-Party Adapters)

RED Z to PL Adapter and RED Z to PL Adapter w/ Electronic ND Filter
     • Supports /i communication
     • Supports power for many Cinema Servo lenses

Nikon FTZ II
     • Supports Manual Focus and Auto Focus
     • Supports Iris Control
     • Supports Lens VR

Third Party Adapters (Lens to Lens Performance may vary):  

Sony E Mount – Megadap ETZ21 Pro
     • Supports Manual Focus and Auto Focus
     • Supports Iris Control
     • Supports Lens Buttons
     • Supports Lens VR
     • Does not support control rings 

Canon EF Mount – Fringer EF-NZ II* 
     • Supports Manual Focus and Auto Focus
     • Supports Iris Control
     • Supports Lens VR
          *Lens recognition requires adapter to be attached to lens before attaching to camera

It is more than likely that we will end up seeing Nikon release Cine lenses at some stage. Whether or not they will be new designs or rehoused versions of existing stills lenses remains to be seen.

Perhaps a lot of people were expecting an entirely new camera, but you need to crawl before you can walk, and as Nikon only acquired RED last year, it might be some time yet before we see entirely new cameras.

Z to PL Adapter Packs

RED has also announced new Z to PL Adapter Packs, which provide a robust PL mount solution and added flexibility for V-RAPTOR [X] Z MOUNT and KOMODO-X Z MOUNT shooters. Currently, there are four different Z to PL Adapter Pack options available, with shipments starting in spring 2025: 

Both the RF and the all-new Z mount versions of the V-RAPTOR [X] and KOMODO-X cameras, and Z to PL adapter packs are available now on RED.com or through RED Premium Dealers. I will talk about these in more detail later in the article.

The RED Z to PL Adapter w/ Electronic ND Filter and RF to PL Adapter w/Electronic ND Filter support PL lenses with Cooke /i Technology in addition to providing power and record triggering with compatible lenses.

While the vast majority of PL lenses are compatible with the PL Adapters w/ Electronic ND Filter, a small selection of PL lenses are not compatible due to their rear protrusion depth.

Caution should be taken with lenses that have extreme protrusion rear elements.

• Maximum Protrusion Depth with Straight 45.60 mm Diameter: 21.60 mm
• Maximum Protrusion Depth with Straight 54 mm Diameter: 20.40 mm  

The maximum envelope of a lens that will fit into the PL Adapter w/Electronic ND Filter is 54.00 mm to a depth of 20.40 mm, or 45.60 mm to a depth of 21.60 mm as shown in the diagram below.

To check suspect lenses:

• Remove the Adapter from the camera and attach it to the lens without a filter inserted. 
• If the lens does not protrude into the filter tray cavity, it will attach to the Adapter with filter inserted without collision.  
• If further verification is required, before re-attaching the Adapter to the camera, CAREFULLY slide the Clear Filter into the filter tray cavity while looking through the rear opening of the Adapter.  Watch to be sure that the filter does not touch your lens as the filter slides past your lens.
• RED offers a 3D printable DSMC3 Lens Fitment Tool, available here.

WARNING: Use of a lens that extends beyond these dimensions may damage the PL Adapter w/ Electronic ND’s Filters or your lens.

Safety

• Should the variable ND filter become damaged and the skin exposed to the liquid crystal material, immediately remove material using soap and water. 
• Should the liquid crystal material come in contact with the eye, immediately flush using running water for at least five minutes. Seek medical advice.

RF Mount Transition

Owners now also have the option to convert their V-RAPTOR [X] and KOMODO-X RF mount versions to the all-new Z Mount systems. This transition costs $1,695 USD for the V-RAPTOR [X] and $1,595 USD for the KOMODO-X. 

Just to be crystal clear, the Z mount versions of the KOMODO-X and V-RAPTOR [X] don’t offer anything new apart from the different mount and different autofocus performance.

What is included with the Conversion?

The Z Mount conversion for V-RAPTOR [X] and KOMODO-X is more than just a lens mount; it includes supplemental board upgrades and modifications allowing the user to take full advantage of the native Z Mount, such as smooth iris control, customizable lens response, and adjustable auto focus speeds. Given the shallow flange depth, the Z mount is compatible with even more lens systems using third-party adapters. 

Pricing

Program	Price (USD)
V-RAPTOR [X] RF to V-RAPTOR [X] Z Mount Conversion	$1,695
KOMODO-X RF to KOMODO-X Z Mount	$1,595

*For V-RAPTOR 8K VV and 8K S35 (non-X), see V-RAPTOR [X] Upgrade FAQ 

Eligibility

V-RAPTOR [X] RF and KOMODO-X RF cameras
– Does not apply to V-RAPTOR 8K VV or 8K S35
– Does not apply to KOMODO
– Z Mount is not available for V-RAPTOR XL

Camera must be registered to your account – Camera Registration

KOMODO-X

The KOMODO-X was announced in May 2023 and it was designed to bridge the gap between the standard KOMODO and RAPTOR cameras.

While the KOMODO-X wasn’t a massive departure away from the original KOMODO, it did feature some new capabilities and recording options.

At launch, the retail price for the KOMODO-X (body only) was $9,995 USD, but in September last year that was dropped to $6,995 USD.

For $6,995 USD you get the following items:

• KOMODO-X ST Camera Body
• DSMC AC Power Adaptor Pack (150W)
• RED Logo Sticker​
• KOMODO-X Information Card (incl. registration and support info)​
• 2 Year Standard Warranty

The camera sits in an already crowded sub $10K space. There are a lot of competing cameras that sit between $4,000 to $11,000 USD. Let’s have a look at how the price of the KOMODO-X compares to other competing cameras that are $10K or less:

	PRICE
RED KOMODO-X	$6,995 USD
RED KOMODO	$4,995 USD
Canon C400	$7,999 USD
Canon C500 Mark II	$6,999 USD
Canon C300 Mark III	$7,999 USD
Canon C80	$5,499 USD
Canon C70	$4,499 USD
Blackmagic Design URSA Cine 12K LF Camera (Body Only	$6,995 USD
Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K with OLPF	$6,385 USD
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro	$2,535 USD
Sony PXW-FX9 (Discontinued)	$10,999 USD
Sony FX6	$5,998 USD
Kinefinity MAVO mark2 6K	$4,198 USD
Kinefinity MAVO Edge 6K	$9,999 USD
Kinefinity MAVO mark2 6K LF	$8,498 USD
Z CAM E2-F6 Mark II	$3,499 USD
Z CAM E2-S6 Mark II Super 35 6K	$2,499 USD
Z CAM E2-F6	$2,999 USD
Z CAM E2-F8	$5,995 USD
Z CAM E2-S6G S35 6K	$5,995 USD

So how much would the real cost of entry be to own a KOMODO-X? Well, that depends on a lot of variables, but here is an indication based on several accessories that are available for the camera:

• RED KOMODO-X $6,995 USD
• NANO-V 49Wh batteries x 4 $1,100 USD
• RED DIGITAL CINEMA 1TB PRO CFexpress 2.0 Type B Memory Card x 4 $1,199.56 USD
• RED DIGITAL CINEMA DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0″ LCD Monitor $2,750 USD

If you add those items above the total would be $12,044.56 USD

Sure you could find cheaper batteries, and choose a SmallHD Indie 7 RED RCP2 Monitor Kit for KOMODO/DSMC3 over a RED DIGITAL CINEMA DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0″ LCD Monitor to keep costs down, but my point is, that the cost of whatever camera you buy, is never the real cost. If you are thinking about buying a camera (regardless of who makes it), you need to factor in the associated costs of what is required to make it an operational and functional camera for your personal requirements.

If you look at the majority of the competition in the under $11K space, those cameras come with built-in ND and LCD screens. Sure, the KOMODO-X has a built-in 2.9″ touchscreen LCD on the top of the camera, but that isn’t going to be a viable option for monitoring or composing images.

Sensor

The KOMODO-X utilizes the exact same 19.9MP (27.03 x 14.26 mm) Super35 Global Shutter CMOS sensor that is found in the original KOMODO. According to RED, it features a completely overhauled sensor architecture, with an updated pixel design which is claimed to lead to improvements in both detail and color in the shadows.

RED claims 16.5+ STOPS of dynamic range, but take that figure with a grain of salt. People have independently tested the KOMODO and it doesn’t have anywhere near 16+ stops of dynamic range. I really wish companies wouldn’t exaggerate dynamic range numbers.

Color management is done through IPP2 image processing pipeline and the camera supports 33×33×33 3D LUTS and the import of CDLS.

Recording Options & Frame Rates

The KOMODO-X is capabale of recording in 6K 17:9 / R3D ELQ at 80fps, and 4K at up to 120fps. As a comparison, the original KOMODO was only capable of recording up to 40fps 6K 17:9 (6144 X 3240) in REDCODE HQ, MQ and L. In 4K 17:9 it can record up to 60fps.

REDCODE RAW MAX FRAME RATES

• 80 fps at 6K 17:9 (6144 x 3240)
• 96 fps at 5K 17:9 (5120 x 2700))
• 120 fps at 4K 17:9 (4096 x 2160)
• 240 fps at 2K 17:9 (2048 x 1080)

BEST AVAILABLE REDCODE SETTINGS

• REDCODE HQ, MQ, LQ, and ELQ at 6K 17:9 (6144 x 3240) up to 80 fps
• REDCODE HQ, MQ, LQ, and ELQ at 4K 17:9 (4096 x 2160) up to 120 fps
• REDCODE HQ, MQ, LQ, and ELQ at 2K 17:9 (2048 x 1080) up to 240 fps

REDCODE RAW ACQUISITION FORMATS

• 6K 17:9 (6144 x 3240), 2:1, 2.4:1, 16:9. 1:1, and Anamorphic 2x, 1.8x, 1.6x, 1.5x, 1.3x, 1.25x
• 5K 17:9 (5120 x 2700) and 16:9
• 4K 17:9 (4096 x 2160) and 16:9
• 2K 17:9 (2048 x 1080)

6K 17:9 at 80fps is pretty good. As a comparison, the more affordable Kinefinity MAVO S35 MKII can do 6K 17:9 at up to 75fps.

The main reason the KOMODO-X can record higher frame rates than the original KOMODO is that it utilizes CFexpress Type B media instead of CFast 2.0 like the original KOMODO. CFexpress Type B is the same media that is used in the V-RAPTOR cameras, so if you owned one of those and wanted to pick up a KOMODO-X as a B camera you could use the same media.

REDCODE RAW ACQUISITION FORMATS

• 6K 17:9 (6144 X 3240), 2:1, 2.4:1, 16:9 AND ANAMORPHIC 2X, 1.8X, 1.6X, 1.5X, 1.3X, 1.25X
• 5K 17:9 (5120 X 2700)
• 4K 17:9 (4096 X 2160) AND 16:9
• 2K 17:9 (2048 X 1080)

APPLE PRORES

ProRes recording in 4K (4096 x 2160) ProRes 4444 XQ up to 60 fps, ProRes 4444 up to 80 fps, and ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422, and ProRes 422 LT up to 120 fps is possible.

Size & Weight

The KOMODO-X weighs 2.62 lbs / 1.18 kg (without body cap and CFexpress card). It has physical dimensions of 129.37 x 101.26 x 95.26 mm / 5.1 x 4 x 3.8 in (LxWxH, largest fixed dims.)

Above you can see how it compares size-wise with the original KOMODO.

Above you can see how the KOMODO-X compares in size to both the standard KOMODO and the V-RAPTOR.

Above you can see more details of how it differs from the original KOMODO.

Power

Unlike the original KOMODO which had two slots for BP-9 series batteries, the KOMODO-X utilizes a micro V-Lock allows for direct attachment of professional micro V-Lock batteries without the need for adapters and is also compatible with the upcoming RED Pro I/O Module to provide auxiliary power and compatibility with full-sized V-Lock and Gold Mount batteries.

You can use the new RED NANO-V 49Wh batteries, or you could use other Mini-V-lock batteries such as the Core SWX NANO Micro 98Wh.

An integrated micro V-Lock allows for direct attachment of professional micro V-Lock batteries without the need for adapters and is also compatible with the upcoming RED Pro I/O Module to provide auxiliary power and compatibility with full sized V-Lock and Gold Mount batteries.

There is also an 11 to 17V DC power available via the integrated 6-pin DC-IN port.

REDVOLT NANO-V

The REDVOLT NANO-V battery ($275 USD) is a small, lightweight power solution for the KOMODO-X. It weighs 0.63 lbs / 288g and is ideal for gimbals, drones, and other setups where form factor and weight matter. The battery’s dimensions (66 mm x 88 mm x 44 mm) ensure the camera retains completely flat surfaces on the top and sides, allowing users to attach various combinations of cages and plates, without issue.

Featuring a 49 Wh capacity and with a maximum output current of 6 amps, the battery can power the KOMODO-X and DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0” LCD when you want to shoot in as light a configuration as possible.

REDVOLT NANO-V was designed in partnership with Core SWX and is compatible with most cameras/modules that accept V-Lock batteries. For issues or troubleshooting, please visit https://coreswx.supportsystem.com.

No built-in ND

RED had an optional KOMODO RF TO PL w/ND FILTR/ADAP PK that worked with the locking Canon RF mount on the camera. This allowed you to run PL mount lenses on the KOMODO-X with the added benefit of being able to use ND or other filters.

With the change to Z mount, RED will be offering a new RED KOMODO Z to PL with Electronic ND Adapter Pack for $3,500 USD.

The RED KOMODO Z to PL with Electronic ND Adapter Pack integrates the same precise electronic ND control as used in the V-RAPTOR XL.

The pack includes two filters, a clear filter for when no ND is needed and an Electronic ND Filter with a 2-7 stop range. It features precise control of ¼, 1/3 or full stop increments which allows choosing the exact exposure without compromising the intended aperture.

Each clear and electronic ND filters thickness is measured and paired together to ensure no back focus shifts when switching between filters. ND can be controlled via the integrated buttons on the Electronic ND Filter, onboard LCD, DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0” LCD, RED Control, RED Control Pro, web interface, or any other RCP2 compatible remote control, allowing for easy access to exposure no matter how the camera is configured.

The adapter supports Cooke /i lens communication and record triggering, the RED KOMODO Z to PL with Electronic ND Adapter Pack expands the functionality of the camera’s native Z lens mount for professional applications. Constructed of a titanium core, the shimmable Z to PL Adapter is resistant to environmental temperature changes, providing consistent and precise back focus.

The RED KOMODO Z to PL with Electronic ND Adapter Pack includes both the KOMODO Side Ribs and Adapter Support Brackets to provide additional rigidity and a native-like mount experience.

This new adapter is only compatible with the KOMODO-X.

If you need to, you could also go with something more affordable such as the MOFAGE POCO Drop-In Filter Lens Mount Adapter Advanced Kit (Nikon Z to PL) which costs $599 USD.

Monitoring

The KOMODO-X only has the same 2.9″ 1440×1440 touchscreen LCD as the original KOMODO. While this allows you to make changes to camera settings, and see a live image, it realistically isn’t a viable viewing solution.

RED has made the KOMODO-X compatible with the DSMC3 RED Touch 7″ LCD Monitor. This is a 7.0″ Daylight-Viewable 1920×1080 LCD, with 1300nits of brightness and a ppi of 322. The monitor attaches directly to the camera using the Pogo mount, and it provides video, data, and power to the monitor from the camera. If you need to use the Pogo mount for another accessory, the monitor also features a locking USB Type-C connector that alternately allows you to pass video, data, and power to the camera. The monitor features a tilt mount that allows it to tilt 180°.

It is good that RED has made this compatible with the KOMODO-X because it is not compatible with DSMC, DSMC2, RED RANGER, or KOMODO camera systems.

If you don’t want to spend $2,750 USD on RED’s solution you could choose the SmallHD Indie 5 RED RCP2 Monitor Kit for KOMODO/DSMC3 or the larger SmallHD Indie 7 RED RCP2 Monitor Kit for KOMODO/DSMC3.

Inputs & Outputs

The KOMODO-X only features a single 12G -SDI output like its little brother. There is also a USB-C port, as well as a 5-pin LEMO input for running external audio.

The phantom-powered locking audio connector enables KOMODO-X to seamlessly integrate into any professional workflow. KOMODO-X is compatible with DSMC3 RED 5-Pin to Single 3.5mm Adapter to support existing KOMODO microphones, or the DSMC3 RED 5-Pin to Dual XLR Adapter for general-purpose XLR microphones.

The 12G-SDI can output the following:

• 12G-SDI: Up to 4096 X 2160 4:2:2 60P
• 6G-SDI: Up to 4096 X 2160 4:2:2 30P
• 3G-SDI: Up to 2048 X 1080 4:2:2 60P
• 1.5G-SDI: Up to 2048 X 1080 4:2:2 FOR 30P, 24P
• SMPTE Timecode, HANC METADATA, 24-BIT 48 KHZ audio

There is WiFi camera control available through the interchangable antenna using the SMA connection. Genlock, timecode IN , GPIO and CTRL (RS232) are availavle via the 9-pin EXT port.

Wired control is available by using the KOMODO Link Adapter through USB-C or Gigabit Ethernet (a compatible USB-C to Ethernet adapter is required to do this) that allows camera control and a live video preview feed to be seen.

RED DIGITAL CINEMA RED PRO I/O Module for KOMODO-X

The RED DIGITAL CINEMA RED PRO I/O Module for KOMODO-X (V-Mount or Gold Mount) $1,095 USD provides a V-mount or Gold Mount battery plate and additional power and communication interfaces for your KOMODO-X 6K digital cinema camera. The V-mount module mounts directly to the KOMODO-X camera’s Micro-V mount plate and 9-pin EXT port.

Features

• Pro video connectors include timecode in, genlock, and 4-pin control interfaces.
• The module also provides one DC power input, one regulated 24V R/S port, and two unregulated 12V AUX ports.
• The operator-side screen displays key voltage and battery percentage information.
• A switch enables you to cut power to the module when you want to leave a battery on for an extended length of time.

Accessories

The RED Compact Top Handle ($539 USD) easily mounts to the top of the KOMODO-X or V-RAPTOR camera bodies while offering a combination of comfort and utility for carrying or shooting with your camera. This top-mounted machined handle features ergonomic Bocote wood inlays with camera trigger control.

The handle includes a handle trigger, rear 3” piece, front 1” piece, and 15mm Monitor Mount.

COMPATIBILITY: The RED Compact Top Handle is not compatible with DSMC, DSMC2 or RED RANGER camera systems.

V-RAPTOR 8K VV [X]

RED announced the V-RAPTOR 8K VV [X] and V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV [X] in January 2024. 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.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jarred Land (@instajarred)

Check out the new V-RAPTOR [X] and V-RAPTOR XL [X], the world’s first available large-format global shutter cinema cameras.

LEARN MORE on https://t.co/urxv6Q8fol pic.twitter.com/C9eGA6XtVd

— RED Digital Cinema (@RED_Cinema) January 30, 2024

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jarred Land (@instajarred)

The RED V-RAPTOR 8K VV [X] retails for $29,995 USD.

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 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

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 ($1,768 USD), is 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.