The new line of RED cameras

RED announces a major reorganization of its camera range. It is simpler and prices are lower.

From now on, there will only be three cameras in the range, distinguished by the choice of sensor. There will only be one “brain” and it will be called DSMC2. The sensors will be called the Gemini (the 5K sensor with good low light performance), the Monstro (the 8K Vista Vision full frame sensor) and the Helium (the S35mm 8K sensor). Going forward, the “EPIC” and “WEAPON” names will be dropped, leaving essentially one model (DSMC2) with a selection of sensors.

The single brain at the heart of the system will have specifications similar to that of WEAPON. It will be capable of up to 60 frames per second at 8K, support 300 MByte per second data transfer, and simultaneous recording of REDCODE® RAW and Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHD/HR recording. It seems likely that the additional costs of unifying the range around a higher level of electronics will be offset by simpler manufacturing lines and ultimately support.

Here are the new sensors and pricing in RED’s own words:

– DSMC2 with MONSTRO 8K VV sensor offers full-frame cinematic lens coverage, produces ultra-detailed 35.4 megapixel panoramic images and offers over 17 stops of dynamic range for $54,500.
– DSMC2 with the HELIUM 8K S35 sensor is the recipient of the highest DxO score ever, offers 16.5+ stops of dynamic range in a Super 35 frame, and is available now for $24,500.
– DSMC2 with GEMINI 5K S35 sensor leverages dual sensitivity modes to provide creators with greater flexibility using standard mode for suitable lighting conditions or low light mode for darker environments with a price tag of $19,500.

As we expect from RED, there will be upgrade paths for most current users.