Atomos Shogun & Shogun Ultra Launched – AtomOS 11, 8K ProRes RAW, C2C, and More

Monitoring NewsIBC 2023

by Francesco AndreolaSeptember 15^th, 2023

At IBC 2023, Atomos just updated its Shogun lineup with two new SDI/HDMI monitor-recorders. Compared to the previous Shogun models, the new Atomos Shogun and Shogun Ultra sport a brighter 2000-nit IPS display, support a wider range of free codecs, integrate Camera-to-cloud capabilities, and are fuelled by the new AtomOS 11 software. Pricing starts at $999.

Just a few weeks ago, Atomos released the Ninja and Ninja Ultra monitor-recorders as an update to the popular Ninja V and Ninja V+. These monitors are powered by the latest AtomOS 11 operating system, which brings interesting new features – such as EL Zone and ARRI False Color monitoring tools.

Now, from the busy IBC 2023 show floor, Atomos is bringing a breath of fresh air to the 7-inch Shogun lineup. Let’s take a closer look!

Atomos Shogun & Shogun Ultra – overview

The last time that the Shogun series got a major update was during NAB 2022 when the company introduced the network-enabled Shogun CONNECT with Camera-to-cloud capabilities. The new Shogun and Shogun Ultra inherit similar features and design. Indeed, the Ultra variant can actually be considered a replacement for the original CONNECT model.

Starting on the front side, the two monitors now feature a 7-inch SuperAtoms IPS touchscreen display with a maximum brightness of 2000 nits. This is a very welcome improvement and should allow you to easily monitor HDR or SDR content even outdoors.

On the rear side, both monitors are equipped with 12G SDI in/out as well as HDMI 2.0 in/out with support to signal cross-conversion. Moreover, we find a USB-C port for firmware updates, a Sony NP-F style battery plate, a 2.1mm locking jack DC input, and a media slot for Master Caddy and AtomX drives.

Off the shelf, both monitors offer a wide range of free codecs that include Apple ProRes RAW, ProRes, Avid DNx as well as H.265, and there’s no longer need for a paid upgrade to unlock new codecs.

The biggest difference between the standard Shogun and the Ultra model is the maximum resolution they support when recording RAW over HDMI. The former can record ProRes RAW up to 6K30p, while the Ultra model maxes out at 8K30p.

Additionally, the Shogun Ultra supports simultaneous recording of ProRes RAW originals up to 4K60p and 1080p H.265 proxies. Moreover, automatic matching filenames, timecode, and record triggers from select ARRI, RED, and Canon cameras are only supported by the Ultra model.

C2C, RemoteView and AirGlu

Both devices are network-enabled thanks to their Wi-Fi antennas (Wi-Fi 6 on Shogun, 6E on Shogun Ultra) and RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port. This also means that both models are ready for Camera-to-cloud workflows and can record H.265 4K files that can be instantly uploaded to the cloud for remote collaborators to edit or review.

Another cool feature is the ability to share your screen’s live feed wirelessly with other Atomos monitors or Apple devices (iPads, Macs, Apple TVs) using RemoteView technology. This happens via the public internet, but requires a paid subscription to Atomos Cloud Studio.

Furthermore, Atomos AirGlu technology is packed into the new Shogun and Shogun Ultra, allowing you to benefit from wireless timecode, sync, and control features. By the way, it’s also possible to remotely control the monitor/recorder up to a distance of 15m using the AtomRemote app for iOS and macOS.

AtomOS 11 – Advanced exposure tools and smart features

Last but not least, the new Shogun and Shogun Ultra are powered by the new AtomOS 11. Apart from the expanded codec options, this enhanced operating system brings a more intuitive UI as well as new exposure tools. These include EL Zone, which is rapidly becoming an industry-standard tool, and ARRI false color. These join a long list of exposure, focus, and framing tools that you’d expect from a professional monitor.

But that’s not all. Indeed, AtomOS 11 also includes some smart features such as RecordAssist and PlaybackAssist (to set a starting time for your recording or playback), TimeLapse, SegmentPro (it automatically splits files based on a pre-programmed size/duration), as well as Onion Skins and Frame Grab functions.

Price and availability

The new Shogun and Shogun Ultra monitor-recorders are now available to pre-order from B&H for $999 and $1199 respectively. They should start shipping towards the beginning of next month.

For more information, please visit Atomos’ website (Shogun / Shogun Ultra).

What do you think of the new Atomos Shogun and Shogun Ultra? Would you consider upgrading from your Shogun 7? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!