DJI has launched the DJI Ronin 4D-8K, the latest version of its Ronin 4D professional cinema camera platform. It’s an all-in-one system that combines an 8K cinema camera with a 4-axis stabilization system.
8K cinema camera
The Ronin 4D-8K includes the DJI Zenmuse X9-8K gimbal camera. You can record in full frame at up to 60 fps in 8K and up to 120 fps in 4K. The camera also delivers a maximum of 14.7 stops of dynamic range with dual native ISOs of 800 and 4000.
Interchangeable lens mount
With interchangeable lens mounts covering DJI DL, Sony E, Leica L, PL and M, you have a wide range of glass you can use. In addition, Ronin 4D-8K has built-in nine-stop physical ND filters for precise exposure control.
LiDAR focusing
The Ronin 4D-8K includes a quick and accurate LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) focusing system. This means that you get autofocus on manual lenses as well as Automated Manual Focus.
Flex Form
The Ronin 4D-8K supports the DJI 4D Flex solution. This option separates the Zenmuse camera from the main body by utilizing a flexible 6.5 foot (2 meter) extension cable. The camera can then be easily held in one hand or attached to boom poles etc., to achieve unique and unusual camera angles.
DJI Cinema Color Science
With the Ronin 4D-8K, DJI is also launching its new DJI Cinema Color Science (DCCS). The company says that this delivers natural skin tones that are both incredibly accurate and aesthetically pleasing, even in complex lighting conditions. DJI also says that the DCCS color engine uses a new algorithm, with high bit-width internal color and tone processing for natural transitions. In addition, it has multiple high-precision LUT processing modules for precise color adjustments in diverse lighting conditions.
CineCore
Together with DCCS, DJI has also developed the CineCore image processing platform. It’s been designed to deliver high-quality digital intermediates for post-production. CineCore incorporates a proprietary chip and advanced processor architecture. The system also supports up to 8K videos in a range of codecs including Apple ProRes RAW, ProRes 422 HQ, H.264 and CinemaDNG.
What we think
With the launch of the Ronin 4D-8K, DJI has shown its commitment to this unique cinema camera and gimbal system. The development of DJI’s proprietary color science system will also ensure that users can get the highest image quality from the Zenmuse camera. With the additional creative options that are opened up by the Flex solution, the Ronin 4D-8K is an exciting camera system that will appeal to a lot of video shooters. The only real challenge is the price. For $12,000 you could pick up a RED Komodo-X, a gimbal, and still have change, so the Ronin 4D-8K needs to tick all the boxes for you.
Pricing and availability
The Ronin 4D-8K combo includes the Ronin 4D Main Body, a Zenmuse X9-8K Gimbal Camera, a DJI DL PZ 17-28mm T3.0 ASPH Lens, a PROSSD 1TB, a PROSSD Mount, Hand Grips, a Top Handle, a High-Bright Main Monitor, a TB50 Intelligent Battery, a LiDAR Range Finder, a DJI Ronin 4D RAW License Key and more. The combo retails for $12,838.
The Zenmuse X9-8K Gimbal Camera is also available for purchase separately. It costs $3,599 and includes a Zenmuse X9-8K Gimbal Camera Protector Case, an X9 Gimbal Base Cap and a DL Mount Body Cap.
