RED launches next generation DSMC3 camera system – the V-RAPTOR  8K VV

RED Digital Cinema has unveiled the new V-RAPTOR  8K VV camera, launching its first entrant into the next generation DSMC3 platform. Building on RED’s bold dedication to advancing image quality, the camera is RED’s most powerful to date. It features the highest dynamic range, fastest cinema-quality sensor scan time, cleanest shadows, and highest frame rates of any camera in RED’s lineup. It is designed to provide unmatched performance for a variety of shooting scenarios. 

Priced at $24,500 (£17,768), a white ST version of the camera is available for purchase via RED.com or from any one of RED’s authorised premium dealers. The black version will be available in larger quantities before the end of 2021. RED also announced a forthcoming XL camera body will be released in the first half of 2022. The XL will be ideally suited for studio configurations and high-end productions, based on feedback to the RED RANGER body style. 

V-RAPTOR features a multi-format 8K sensor (40.96mm x 21.60mm) with the ability to shoot 8K large format or 6K Super 35. Joining its predecessor, the MONSTRO 8K VV sensor, this unique in-camera option for impactful visual storytelling allows shooters to leverage any of their large format or S35 lenses with the push of a button and always deliver at over 4K resolution.   

The V-RAPTOR exceeds previous sensor capabilities, presenting users with the option to capture 8K full sensor at up to 120 frames per second (150fps at 2.4:1), 6K up to 160 fps (200fps at 2.4:1), and 2K (2.4:1) at an incredible 600 frames per second, while still capturing over 17 stops of dynamic range.  

“V-RAPTOR is more than just its specs. It is a reflection of the ferocity of our team, who have spent the last two years forced apart. Through everything, we found a way to work together closer and better than ever before, fuelled by the incredible passion and support of our community of filmmakers. V-RAPTOR takes an impressive array of silicon, seemingly from the future, and mashes it together with pieces of the heart and soul of every RED camera that has come before it.” — Jarred Land, president, RED Digital Cinema  

V-RAPTOR, as with the other cameras in RED’s ecosystem, harnesses RED’s proprietary REDCODE RAW codec, allowing users to capture 16-bit RAW and leveraging RED’s latest IPP2 workflow and colour management tools.     

This highly anticipated DSMC3 camera is built on a newly integrated and modernised form factor while featuring a robust professional I/O array that includes two 4K 12G-SDI outputs, XLR audio with phantom power capability via adapter, and built-in USB-C interface allowing for remote control, ethernet offload, and more. All features are packaged in a compact, rugged, water, and dust resistant design that measures 6 x 4.25 inches and just over 4 pounds. Other highlights include an RF lens mount with locking mechanism; wireless control and preview via Wi-Fi; phase detection autofocus; and a newly designed and easy-to-navigate integrated display, located on the side of the camera, which allows for comprehensive controls, including in-camera format selection, customised buttons, status updates, and more.  

As with RED’s most recent camera, the RED KOMODO 6K, V-RAPTOR utilises the updated and streamlined REDCODE RAW settings (HQ, MQ, and LQ) to enhance the user experience with simplified format choices optimised for various shooting scenarios and needs.  

Additional features include data rates up to 800 MB/s using RED branded or other qualified CFexpress media cards; integrated micro v-mount battery plate; a 60mm fan for quieter and more stable heat management; and wireless connectivity via the free RED Control app, which is available now for iOS and Android devices.  

“We at RED are truly thrilled to finally show off V-RAPTOR to the filmmaking community around the globe. The fact that we are introducing yet another groundbreaking camera into the market is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all the employees across the board at RED. It is simply a part of our DNA to continue the brand’s legacy of disrupting the industry and providing filmmakers with the most advanced tools possible to unleash their wildest creative ideas without ever compromising.” — Jamin Jannard   

Also announced from RED is a comprehensive array of first-party and co-designed accessories. The engineering team at RED worked closely with industry-leading partners such as SmallHD, Angelbird, Core SWX, and Creative Solutions to create and produce purpose-built products specifically to work with V-RAPTOR.  

Available accessories include:  

• DSMC3 RED Touch 7” LCD monitor 
• V-RAPTOR Wing Grip 
• RED PRO CFexpress 660GB and 1.3 TB (available soon) media cards 
• RED CFexpress Card Reader 
• REDVOLT MICRO-V Battery Pack 
• RED Compact Dual V-Lock Charger 

RED is also launching a pre-bundled V-RAPTOR Starter Pack option that comes with:  

• DSMC3 RED Touch 7” LCD 
• RED PRO CFexpress 660GB Card 
• RED CFexpress Card Reader 
• 2x REDVOLT MICRO-V Battery Pack 
• RED Compact Dual V-Lock Charger 
• 2x V-RAPTOR™ Wing Grips  
• EXT to T/C Cable

“We are excited to partner with our amazing Premium Dealers to bring this groundbreaking camera technology to market. V-RAPTOR joins KOMODO, RANGER and DSMC2 to create what we feel is the best and most versatile lineup of cinema cameras in the industry. We will continue to work with our Premium Dealers and all of our partners to provide the highest level of service to the global community of RED users.” — Tommy Rios, executive vice president, RED Digital Cinema.