Preorders for the black version of the RED KOMODO-X are now available. This variant shares the same feature set as the white “Stormtrooper” model and retails for $9,995. The company also introduced the KOMODO-X Starter and Production Pack to get you ready to shoot in no time.
KOMODO-X 6K Digital Cinema Camera (Canon RF, Black)
all prices excluding sales tax/VAT
Officially introduced a couple of weeks ago, the RED KOMODO-X aims to fill the gap between the original KOMODO 6K and the V-RAPTOR S35. In typical RED-style, the American company first launched a limited edition white “Stormtrooper” version, which will be joined by the “Standard” black production units towards the end of June.
RED KOMODO-X – key features
Since the two versions are essentially the same, I suggest you learn everything about the specs of KOMODO-X, by reading our initial coverage here, if you haven’t already. Anyway, here’s a quick refresher on the key improvements over the original KOMODO 6K:
- newly-developed 6K (6144 x 3240) S35 (27.03 x 14.26mm) Global Shutter sensor;
- doubled maximum frame rates of up to 80fps in 6K 17:9 and 120fps in 4K 17:9;
- about half a stop more dynamic range (claimed);
- newly-added ProRes 4444XQ, 4444, and 422 LT recording formats;
- CFexpress Type B media;
- new locking RF mount;
- integrated micro V-mount battery plate;
- redesigned I/O array, similar to V-RAPTOR cameras, with 12G SDI, 5-pin mini XLR audio input, 3.5mm headphone jack, 9-pin EXT port, 6-pin DC IN, Wi-Fi antenna and newly-added USB-C port;
- support for DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0” LCD Monitor via top pogo pins;
- two physical user-assignable recording buttons.
I was recently able to spend a couple of hours with a RED KOMODO-X Stormtrooper unit at a local rental house in Northern Italy and, although I cannot speak for image quality yet, I must say that operability has been greatly improved over the original KOMODO.
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Considering that most people use an additional V-lock battery plate with their KOMODO, the “X” model turns out to be even more compact overall. Also, when using the Tokina Cinema 50-135mm T2.9 zoom lens, the Locking RF mount seems rock solid.
Also, in my opinion, the new position of the I/O ports can facilitate camera rigging and cable management. However, mind that if you own a set of V-mount batteries with a D-Tap output on the right side of the brick, it is likely that D-Tap will interfere with the new position of the Wi-Fi antenna.
Lastly, the two tactile recording buttons offer a high degree of customization with a total of 4 user-assignable functions (half press and full press on each button). For example, you can use these buttons to quickly toggle on/off monitoring tools, eject your media or even control the intensity of the ND filter when using RED’s new RF to PL Electronic ND Filter Adapter Pack.
RED PRO I/O Module
Along with the new camera body, RED also introduced a dedicated expansion module to further expand the camera’s input/output capabilities and power options. The RED PRO I/O Module attaches directly to the V-mount plate on the back of the body and has a cable that plugs into the camera’s 9-pin EXT port.
The module offers DC-IN (11-17V), Genlock (BNC), CTRL (4-Pin), and Timecode (5-pin) ports. You also get a single 3-pin 24V (regulated) Fischer R/S port and two 2-Pin 12V (unregulated) AUX ports.
The module comes in two variants to accommodate either V-mount or Gold mount batteries at the back. Also, a tiny screen on the operator side displays status info about voltage and remaining battery life, while a power switch gives you the ability to cut power to the module.
RED KOMODO-X Starter and Production Packs
Furthermore, RED also launched the KOMODO-X Starter and Production accessory packs that essentially include everything you need to start shooting straight away.
Here’s everything you get with the KOMODO-X Starter Pack:
- 1x KOMODO-X Camera System
- 2x RED PRO CFexpress 1TB
- 1x RED CFexpress Card Reader
- 2x REDVOLT NANO-V
- 1x RED Compact Dual V-Lock Charger
- 1x KOMODO Wing Grip
- 1x KOMODO Outrigger Handle
- 1x DSMC3 5-Pin to Single 3.5mm Adapter
- 1x RED EXT-to-Timecode Cable 3’
- 1-Year Standard Warranty (camera only)
The Production Pack is even more premium and comes in two versions, V-mount or Gold mount. It includes:
- 1x KOMODO-X Camera System
- 1x DSMC3 RED Touch 7” LCD
- 2x RED PRO CFexpress 1TB
- 1x RED CFexpress Card Reader
- 1x RED Pro V-Lock (or Gold Mount) I/O Module
- 1x RED Compact Top Handle
- 1x DSMC3 RED 5-Pin to Dual XLR Adapter
- 1-Year Standard Warranty (camera only)
Price and availability
The black version of RED KOMODO-X is now available for pre-order from authorized dealers worldwide. The body-only option retails for $9,995 (B&H / CVP), while the official price of the Starter and Production Pack is set at $11,995 and $14,995 respectively.
Furthermore, the great news is that you can now pick up a 1TB version of the RED PRO CFexpress card for just $299.99. This is an extremely affordable price for such high-capacity media and can really help original KOMODO owners make the jump to “X”.
Lastly, pricing for the other newly-released RED accessories is as follows:
- RED PRO I/O Module – $1,095 (B&H / CVP)
- RED KOMODO RF to PL with Electronic ND Filter Adapter Pack – $3,500 (B&H / CVP)
- RED Compact Top Handle – $539 (B&H / CVP)
- REDVOLT NANO-V – $275 (B&H / CVP)
For more information, please visit RED’s website here.
What do you think of the RED KOMODO-X camera system and accessories? Are you going to add “X” to your camera arsenal? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
