RED is now accepting reservations for the studio configuration version of their flagship camera, the V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV. This model shares the same 8K Vista Vision sensor of the original V-RAPTOR, but comes with a larger unified body that offers built-in ND filters, an interchangeable lens mount, and a more complete set of I/O connections. Also, a new RED 8K S35 camera is in the works.
The RED V-RAPTOR was the first camera to join the company’s new DSMC3 lineup and has been out in the wild since September 2021. This extremely capable camera features a multi-format 8K Vista Vision sensor that offers 6K resolution in Super 35 mode and can capture motion at up to 120 fps at full resolution.
In typical RED style, the company has packed the same 8K VV sensor into a unified body that is aimed at studio applications, high-end productions, and rental houses. We already reported about the RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV last month when the camera was spotted at BSC Expo. Now RED has finally opened up reservations for this V-RAPTOR “on steroids” and a new 8K S35 sensors is “out of the oven”, according to CEO Jarred Land. Let’s take a closer look.
RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV: an all-in-one system
Since the original V-RAPTOR and the XL version share exactly the same sensor, the two cameras are expected to perform identically when comparing image quality. However, the RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV body is quite larger than that of the standard V-RAPTOR and offers several usability improvements, starting from a built-in ARRI rosette on each side.
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Also, this version features an integrated electronic ND system that makes exposure adjustments faster and easier. This is something that the standard V-RAPTOR lacks, thus users need to recur to traditional matte boxes or lens mounts with built-in NDs, such as the Breakthrough Photography Cinema DFM or the recently released KipperTie Strata PL-ND. Furthermore, while the V-RAPTOR comes with a native RF mount, the XL offers an interchangeable lens mount system that includes a robust titanium PL option.
The greatest selling point of the V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV is its expanded list of input/output options, including:
- USB-C
- 3x SDI ports
- GENLOCK
- 19.5-34V DC-IN
- 2x AUX ports
- CTRL
- TIMECODE
- GIG-E
- AUDIO
- 3.5mm headphone jack
All these connections are accessible from the camera’s assistant side. This is also where the on/off switch, REC button, and LCD screen with navigation buttons can be found. The opposite (left) side of the camera has a much simpler design, with a rec/stop button, ND controls, two user-configurable buttons as well as the CFexpress card slot. Furthermore, a single 12V (1A max) two-pin Lemo, dual 24V RS (3A max) 3-pin Lemo, and EVF SDI connectors can be found on the front of the RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV body.
RED V-RAPTOR XL Production Pack
Just like with the newly-available Production Pack for the V-RAPTOR, the company offers a pre-bundled, ready-to-shoot pack for the XL version as well, including:
- V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV Camera System
- DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0” LCD monitor with sunhood
- REDVOLT XL batteries (V-Lock or Gold Mount)
- RED Compact Dual Charger (V-Lock or Gold Mount)
- RED PRO CFexpress 2TB cards and card reader
- Top Handle with Extensions
- Riser Plater
- Top and Bottom 15MM LWS Rod Support Brackets
- DSMC3 RED 5-pin to Dual XLR Adapter
- DSMC3 RMI Cable 18”
RED’s new 8K S35 sensor
Along with the opening of reservations for the V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV, RED’s CEO Jarred Land teased a new 8K S35 sensor on his Instagram profile. This new sensor is currently being tested and will soon find its home in a V-RAPTOR “standard” or XL body. This probably represents the company’s attempt to contrast ARRI’s new Super 35 mm camera that is going to be revealed tomorrow.
Price and availability
The new V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV is now available for pre-order from RED’s website for $39,500. You can reserve a unit by providing your email on the dedicated website page. The camera should start shipping in August, 2022. Finally, the official price of the pre-bundled V-RAPTOR XL Production Pack is $49,995.
Did you get the chance to shoot on the RED V-RAPTOR yet? What do you think of the design of this new XL version? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
