ARRI announces the Hi-5 SX, a single-axis wireless hand unit

ARRI introduces the single-axis Hi-5 SX hand unit, joining the three-axis Hi-5 at the forefront of wireless camera and lens control technology. Ready to perform a variety of single-axis tasks on set, the Hi-5 SX can also be easily upgraded to higher functionality via optional software licenses. Weatherproof and exceptionally hard-wearing, it brings ARRI dependability to the control of almost any lens on any camera, at an attractive price point.

Sharing the Hi-5 form factor, the Hi-5 SX has a well-proven ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to hold and operate. The large display is easy to read, and the intuitive touchscreen interface is based on a camera GUI. Uniquely, ARRI offers swappable radio modules for the Hi-5 and Hi-5 SX, allowing crews to choose the most suitable module for any shooting location or to conform to different regional frequency regulations.

Upgradeability is at the core of the Hi-5 SX concept. Compatible with all existing Hi-5 licenses, such as the Cinefade, RED camera control, and Focusbug licenses, the unit can also be upgraded with two new software licenses that give users the freedom and flexibility to access the functions they need, when they need them.

Firstly, the Hi-5 SX Plus License enables lens mapping, Custom Smart Ring creation, six additional user buttons, tail slate mode, and more. Secondly, the Hi-5 SX All-Axis License enables simultaneous use of the knob, slider, and force-pad for three-axis lens control, as well as complete display information, AUX axis, and full virtual T-stop and focal length features. Once both licenses are installed the Hi-5 SX becomes functionally indistinguishable from the Hi-5; the blue SX joystick toggle can even be swapped for black. Users of the Hi-5 SX with no additional licenses installed can choose between the knob, slider, or force-pad to control a single lens axis, whether focus, iris, or zoom.

The Hi-5 SX allows 1^st ACs to limit their initial investment in a hand unit and a single lens motor, while still giving them the peace of mind of pulling focus with the most sophisticated single-axis unit on the market, backed by the universally trusted ARRI brand. As their careers progress, they may choose to upgrade their Hi-5 SX, offering productions more functionality and increasing their earning potential.

For well-established 1^st ACs who already own a three-axis hand unit and several lens motors, the Hi-5 SX lets them facilitate separate iris pulls operated by the cinematographer or DIT, using the most up-to-date technology. While for rental companies that have multiple hand units, the Hi-5 SX provides a cost-neutral way to sell off older three-axis units that are often sent out for single-axis tasks and replace them with brand-new, state-of-the-art units.

With a ruggedized housing that is sealed, dustproof, and weatherproof, the Hi-5 SX can be operated with complete reliability in harsh environmental conditions. ARRI-branded batteries based on the NP-L interface can be hot-swapped without powering the unit down, and their remaining capacity is indicated accurately on the display screen.

The new Hi-5 SX will be available to order from July 1, 2024, and will begin shipping on October 1, 2024. It replaces the ARRI SXU-1 single-axis hand unit, which will be phased out.