Compact, fast, and full-frame—the V-RAPTOR 8K VV is REDDIGITAL CINEMA’s impressive introduction to their DSMC3 platform. Key features include:
35.4MP full-frame, rolling shutter CMOS
Canon RF lens & CFexpress Type-B support
17+ stops of dynamic range
Up to 8K120 17:9, 6K198 S35 & 4K240 17:9
What’s Changed? Sized only slightly larger than the REDKOMODO but boasting a more powerful, vista vision sensor, the V-RAPTOR offers multi-format capture in 8K VistaVision, 6K Super35, 4K, 3K Super16, and anamorphic options. The V-RAPTOR’s RF lens mount can be used with numerous lens adapters, and it has a locking ring that provides additional security for use with heavier lenses. In response to user feedback, RED has added a right-side user interface that brings control to 1st and 2nd ACs right at the camera. Dual 12G-SDI outputs, resolutions including 16-bit REDCODERAW at significantly higher frame rates, 1080p streaming, 17+ stops of dynamic range, and phase-detection autofocus (PDAF) further boost the V-RAPTOR’s suitability for a range of production styles. Please note, the RED V-RAPTOR now supports Apple ProRes and ProRes proxy, 4K 8:1 recording, and timelapse recording, along with a number of bug fixes addressed in software updates.
Full-Frame Sensor. The 35.4MP full-frame V-RAPTOR sensor at the heart of the camera provides 17+ stops of dynamic range that enable it to excel at low-light capture while offering the lowest noise floor of the RED lineup. And while the V-RAPTOR does not employ a global shutter, its rolling shutter with high-speed readout is almost twice as fast as that of the MONSTRO, all but eliminating motion artifacts. This sensor also enables phase-detection autofocus (PDAF), a boon for single operators grabbing fast-paced or unpredictable action. To accompany this sensor, a fixed OLPF (optical low-pass filter) will enable you to capture RED’s signature color quality and sensitivity.
Compact Micro-V Batteries. In keeping with the V-RAPTOR’s smaller footprint, power is obtained using Micro-V mount batteries from RED or Titan with additional brand compatibility to be added later. Measuring less than 3" wide, the 98Wh RED Micro-V batteries will power the camera for about one hour, with one battery charging in about 2.5 hours and two in 4 hours on the dual charger.
Assistant Interface. A right-side LCD screen user interface offers on-camera control to 1st and 2nd ACs or an operator positioned at that side of the camera. Physical buttons eliminate accidental selections that can occur with touchscreens, and the ability to save user pages lets you customize the interface to your liking. The interface also helpfully only displays the resolutions and frame rates available with your chosen format.
Input and Outputs. Dual 12G-SDI ports enable you to output mirror feeds to two displays, or individual feeds with or without focus peaking, timecode, or other displays, or with two different looks. A USB Type-C port outputs up to 1080p video streaming.
DSMC3 Ecosystem. The DSMC3 form features several improvements over the previous DSMC2 brains and no compatibility with DSMC2 accessories. DSMC3 cameras have a larger fan system with two intake valves that provide better thermal heat exchange (TEC) enabling a wide ambient temperature operating range.
The V-Raptor makes some leaps forward, but also a few steps back.
RED’s new DSMC3 cinema camera sports a gorgeous new 35.4MP V-RAPTOR sensor that delivers big, beautiful full-frame images in a rela...
The V-Raptor makes some leaps forward, but also a few steps back.
RED’s new DSMC3 cinema camera sports a gorgeous new 35.4MP V-RAPTOR sensor that delivers big, beautiful full-frame images in a relatively small package. It also sports a new right-side LCD and navigation buttons that will be convenient for ACs and operators to change settings without needing to access the LCD. The autofocus is much more functional than on previous RED brains too.
However, the popular modular aspects of the DSMC2 line are all but gone, with the Raptor sporting a fixed locking RF-mount and Mini V-Mount plate on the back. It’s also lacking certain features that many other cameras at this price point have, like built-in ND filters, an HDMI port, and XLR inputs.
While the V-Raptor is certainly a capable cinema camera that delivers full-frame images, it’s not exactly a game changer. I’m excited to see how RED supports it in the future.
Pros: The full-frame sensor is huge and provides captivating images in a lightweight package. The menus and side LCD are a breeze to use.
Cons: Not very modular like previous REDs, and most older model RED accessories will not work with the V-Raptor, which might disappoint people who owned DSMC2 cameras. Using adapters for PL- and EF-mount lenses is not as appealing as the dedicated titanium mounts from the DSMC2 lineup.
