RED has announced its latest cinema camera, the KOMODO-X. The KOMODO-X has a new 6K sensor and can record at double the frame rates of the original Komodo.
New sensor
The KKOMODO-X has a 6K 19.9MP Super 35mm CMOS global shutter with a resolution of 6144 by 3240 pixels. The advantage of a global shutter is that there is no rolling shutter effect when the camera is moving. RED also says that the KOMODO-X’s sensor has a completely overhauled architecture. It has an updated pixel design along with improvements in both detail and color in the shadows. In addition, it has a dynamic range of more than 16.5 stops.
Higher frame rates
The KOMODO-X can record at up to 80 fps at 6K 17:9 compared to 40 fps with the original KOMODO. You can also record at up to 96 fps at 5K, 120 fps at 4K and 240 fps at 2K. Again, all of these are double the frame rates with the original KOMODO. In addition to the 17:9 aspect ratio image, in 6K you can opt for 2:1, 2.4:1, 16:9 1:1 and a range of anamorphic sizes. You can record all of the resolutions and frame rates in REDCODE RAW. However, you can also choose to use ProRes when shooting in 4K, from ProRes 422LT all the way up to 4444XQ. The KOMODO-X uses CFexpress type B memory cards.
RF lens mount
The KOMODO-X uses Canon’s mirrorless RF mount as on the original KOMODO. However, the mount on the KOMODO-X now features a locking mechanism to ensure your lenses are held firmly in place. The RF mount can also be adapted for use with many other lens mount systems, including PL and EF, with electronic communication. Although most cinema camera users would use manual focus, the KOMODO-X does feature updated phase-detected autofocus.
Other features
The KOMODO-X has an integrated 2.9- LCD screen for controlling the camera, which can also be used to preview your image. Alternatively, you can directly attach RED’s seven-inch DSMC3 touchscreen LCD monitor or connect a separate screen or EVF via 12G SDI. There’s also a locking audio input for an XLR or 3.5mm adapter, a headphone jack, USB-C, a timecode port and a DC-IN connector. In addition, the KOMODO-X has Wi-Fi for cloud connectivity and 1080P livestreaming.
Body design
From the front, the body of the KOMODO-X is the same size as the original KOMODO at 4 inches by 4 inches. However, at 5 inches, the KOMODO-X is an inch longer from front to back. This is due to the built-in micro v-mount plate on the back of the KOMODO-X, which is compatible with the REDVOLT Nano-V batteries. In addition, the KOMODO-X is half a pound heavier than the original, weighing around 2.62 pounds.
What we think
The KOMODO-X sits between the original KOMODO and the V-Raptor in RED’s cinema camera range. It’s quite a bit more expensive than the original KOMODO. However, you do get the new sensor and can record up to double the maximum frame rates in all resolutions. Additional features such as the integrated V-mount plate also add value if you already use suitably small batteries. The initial ST release of the KOMODO-X has already sold out, so there’s no doubt the camera will be a success. However, if you already own the original KOMODO, you should assess your need for the additional features before deciding whether or not to upgrade to the KOMODO-X.
Pricing and availability
The RED KOMODO-X was available to pre-order in an ST (stormtrooper) limited edition white, black and red color scheme due to ship at the end of May. However, this edition is already sold out. RED hasn’t yet said when the black production version of the KOMODO-X will be released. The camera retails at $9,995.
