RED V-RAPTOR [X] and Compact EVF Announced – 8K120p with Vista Vision Global Shutter Sensor

Camera News

by Francesco AndreolaJanuary 25^th, 2024

RED has just announced a new flagship camera in their DSMC3 lineup, called V-RAPTOR [X]. It features a 8K Vista Vision Global Shutter Sensor that goes up to 120fps in 8K, Extended Highlights protection mode for extra dynamic range, enhanced phase-detection AF, improved audio, and more. RED’s new electronic viewfinder, called Compact EVF, is also here.

Over the last few days, Jarred Land – President and Co-Owner at RED Digital Cinema – has been posting pictures clearly teasing their upcoming EVF for DSMC3 cameras. However, a bigger announcement has been hiding in the background of those images.

Indeed, next to the new EVF, today RED announces the first large-format cinema camera featuring a global shutter sensor capable of capturing 8K up to 120fps. So, please, welcome the RED V-RAPTOR [X] and V-RAPTOR XL [X].

RED V-RAPTOR [X] and V-RAPTOR XL [X] – features

The new RED V-RAPTOR [X] and V-RAPTOR XL [X] cameras inherit the same body design of their standard V-RAPTOR and V-RAPTOR XL counterparts, but pack an entirely re-engineered Vista Vision (40.96×21.60mm) Global Shutter sensor that can capture motion at up to 120fps in 8K. With full-frame global shutter on the rise, RED is the first company to bring this tech to a proper cinema camera.

What’s more impressive, though, is that – despite the global shutter design – the company claims that the cameras can capture 17+ stops of dynamic range in standard mode or up to 20+ stops with Extended Highlights mode turned on. Of course, this is a bold statement that requires a meticulous verification through our Lab Test procedure.

Moreover, the two new cameras are equipped with a Phantom Track dual-capture function that is designed specifically for virtual production. Essentially, it allows you to record two distinct .R3D clips of the final image and the green screen image, while also being able to monitor the two feeds independently over the camera’s 2x SDI outputs.

Most of the other features – such resolution/recording frame rate combinations, supported media, lens mount, form factor, and connectivity – have remained pretty much unchanged compared to the original V-RAPTOR and V-RAPTOR XL, so you can read all about it here and here.

A few honourable mentions, though. Indeed, RED claims that the audio hardware was improved with better pre-amps, and the on-sensor phase detection AF with face-detection was also enhanced.

RED Camera Upgrade Program

Lastly, the company has decided to bring back its Camera Upgrade Program, which they abandoned after the introduction of the DSMC3 lineup. The company is offering existing V-RAPTOR and V-RAPTOR XL users a path to upgrade their sensor and internal boards to match the capabilities of the new [X] sensor.

New Compact EVF

Next to the new camera, the company is also launching a new electronic viewfinder – which has long been requested by RED users. The accessory features a single-cable design, meaning that video, power, and data are all managed through a single connection.

The eyepiece is retro-compatible with DSMC2/Ranger bodies out of the box and works with DSMC3 cameras via the optional DSMC3 Adapter A. However, it is not compatible with the original KOMODO, while support for KOMODO-X will come at a later date (Q1 2024) with a firmware update.

The viewfinder, which weighs about 360g/0.8lbs, features a built-in 1080p 8-bit micro-OLED display with a contrast ratio of 10,000:1 and 60fps, an adjustable diopter, an updated eyecup mounting system with replaceable eyecup, as well as a set of user-assignable buttons. These can be programmed to adjust camera settings on DSMC3 bodies – such as ISO, fps, or WB – or to toggle monitoring tools on or off.

The viewfinder-only option comes with a 1/4”-20 mount plate, but RED also developed an EVF pack that includes the viewfinder, the DSMC3 Adapter A, an EVF mount, and a 18” Right-to-Straight EVF cable.

Price and availability

The new RED V-RAPTOR [X] and V-RAPTOR XL [X] are now available to pre-order from RED’s website. Both cameras start shipping today. The body only options retail for $29,995 and $44,995, which is $5,000 than the 8K VV rolling shutter models. Moreover, the upgrade path for existing V-RAPTOR and V-RAPTOR XL owners is priced at $12,500.

Lastly, the revamped Compact EVF is also available as a viewfinder-only option for $3,450 or as a pack (EVF, DSMC3 Adapter, EVF mount, and 18” cable) for $4,950.

For more information, please visit RED’s website (V-RAPTOR [X] / V-RAPTOR [XL] X / Compact EVF).

What do you think of the all new RED V-RAPTOR [X]? Have you long been waiting for a new electronic viewfinder from RED? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!