RED introduces DSMC3 camera system with V-Raptor 8K VV

RED Digital Cinema has introduced its new V-Raptor 8K VV camera, the first offering for its next-generation DSMC3 platform.

According to the company, it offers the highest dynamic range, fastest cinema-quality sensor scan time, cleanest shadows and highest frame rates of any of its existing lineup. It is designed for a variety of shooting scenarios.

V-Raptor features a multi-format 8K sensor (40.96mm x 21.60mm) with the ability to shoot 8K large format or 6K Super 35. Joining its predecessor, the Monstro 8K VV sensor, this in-camera option allows shooters to use any of their large-format or S35 lenses with the push of a button and always get over 4K resolution.

The V-Raptor exceeds previous sensor capabilities, offering users the option to capture 8K full sensor at up to 120fps (150fps at 2.4:1), 6K at up to 160 fps (200fps at 2.4:1) and 2K (2.4:1) at 600fps, while still capturing over 17 stops of dynamic range. 

Priced at $24,500, a white ST version of the camera is available now. The black version will be available before the end of 2021. RED also announced a forthcoming XL camera body will be released in the first half of 2022. The XL will be ideally suited for studio configurations and high-end productions, based on feedback to the RED Ranger body style.

Speaking about the new launch, Jarred Land, president, RED Digital Cinema, said: “V-Raptor is more than just its specs. It is a reflection of the ferocity of our team, who have spent the last two years forced apart. Through everything, we found a way to work together closer and better than ever before, fueled by the incredible passion and support of our community of filmmakers. V-Raptor takes an impressive array of silicon, seemingly from the future, and mashes it together with pieces of the heart and soul of every RED camera that has come before it.” 

V-Raptor, as with the other cameras in RED’s ecosystem, uses RED’s proprietary REDCODE Raw codec, allowing users to capture 16-bit Raw and leveraging RED’s latest IPP2 workflow and colour management tools.

The DSMC3 camera is built on a newly integrated and modernised form factor while featuring a professional I/O array that includes two 4K 12G-SDI outputs, XLR audio with phantom power capability via adapter and built-in USB-C interface, allowing for remote control, ethernet offload and more. All features are packaged in a compact, rugged, water- and dust-resistant design that measures 6 inches x 4.25 inches and just over 4lbs.

Other highlights include an RF lens mount with a locking mechanism; wireless control and preview via Wi-Fi; phase detection autofocus; and a newly designed and easy-to-navigate integrated display located on the side of the camera, which allows for comprehensive controls, including in-camera format selection, customized buttons, status updates and more.

As with RED’s most recent camera, the Red Komodo 6K, V-Raptor uses the updated and streamlined RedCode Raw settings (HQ, MQ, and LQ) to enhance the user experience with simplified format choices optimized for various shooting scenarios and needs.

Additional features include data rates up to 800MB/s using RED branded or other qualified CFexpress media cards; integrated micro V-Mount battery plate; a 60mm fan for quieter and more stable heat management; and wireless connectivity via the free Red Control app, which is available now for iOS and Android devices.

RED founder Jamin Jannard added:  “We at RED are truly thrilled to finally show off V-RAPTOR to the filmmaking community around the globe. The fact that we are introducing yet another groundbreaking camera into the market is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all the employees across the board at RED. It is simply a part of our DNA to continue the brand’s legacy of disrupting the industry and providing filmmakers with the most advanced tools possible to unleash their wildest creative ideas without ever compromising.”

Also announced from RED is a comprehensive array of first-party and co-designed accessories. The engineering team at RED worked closely with industry-leading partners such as SmallHD, Angelbird, Core SWX and Creative Solutions to create and produce purpose-built products to work with V-Raptor

Later in 2021, along with the launch of the black V-Raptor, an additional pre-bundled production pack option will be available. It will come with an accessory package that includes the DSMC3 Red Touch 7-inch LCD monitor, two RED Pro CFexpress 660GB Cards, RED CFexpress USB-C card reader, four RED Mini V-Lock 98Wh batteries, RED V-Lock charger, V-Raptor tactical top plate with battery adapter; V-Raptor expander module; V-Raptor top handle; V-Raptor Quick Release Platform Pack; RED production grips; V-Raptor side ribs; and a DSMC3 Red 5-pin to dual XLR adaptor.

Tommy Rios, executive VP, RED Digital Cinema, stated: “We are excited to partner with our amazing Premium Dealers to bring this groundbreaking camera technology to market. V-Raptor joins KOMODO, RANGER and DSMC2 to create what we feel is the best and most versatile lineup of cinema cameras in the industry. We will continue to work with our Premium Dealers and all of our partners to provide the highest level of service to the global community of RED users.”