DJI’s innovative gimbal camera, the DJI Ronin 4D, is now shipping. However, there have been some updates to the previously announced specifications. One notable change is that the camera system will no longer support internal Apple ProRes RAW recording.
Full frame camera
The DJI Ronin 4D integrates cinematic imaging, a four axis gimbal, LiDAR focusing and wireless video transmission and control into a single unit. DJI based the Ronin 4D around the full-frame Zenmuse X9 gimbal camera, with more than 14 stops of dynamic range. The camera also gives you dual native ISO and built-in 9 stop ND filters. Two versions of the camera are available, shooting resolutions up to 6K or 8K.
ProRes 422 HQ
The DJI Ronin 4D records in ProRes 422 HQ but not ProRes RAW, as stated when the product was announced last year. DJI has lowered the list price of the 4D as a result. The company has also promised that ProRes 4444 XQ recording will be made available via a firmware update later in 2022.
New features
Although the lack of ProRes RAW will be a blow to some users, DJI has announced some new features. New firmware allows the Remote Monitor to view and control the main monitor interface with Mirror Control Mode. It will also output a clean video stream over the HDMI and SDI ports on the Remote Monitor Expansion plate. Another new feature means that automatic calibration is available for some third-party lenses to enable the LiDAR focusing functions.
LiDAR focusing
The Ronin 4D’s LiDAR focusing system means that you get fast, accurate autofocus even in low light conditions. The autofocus system also works with manual lenses. In addition, LiDAR Waveform makes manual focusing easier and more intuitive.
Z-Axis stabilization
The system has four axis stabilization. This means it includes Z-Axis stabilization to eliminate vertical camera shake such as you might get when walking with a traditional three axis gimbal. The 4D also has DJI’s Active Track Pro feature to create smooth, stable footage.
Wireless control
DJI claims that the Ronin 4D has a wireless transmission and control range of 20,000 feet. The inclusion of O3 Pro Video Transmission technology adds DFS frequency bands and enables 1080p/60fps video transmission. It also supports one transmitter with multiple receivers and can remotely control gimbal, focusing and camera settings.
Pricing and availability
The DJI Ronin 4D-6K costs $6,799, while the 4D-8K model is $11,499. The 8K model also has an additional 1TB PRO SSD to store your footage.
