Rumor has it that DJI is expected to launch a new, modular-style cinema camera at NAB in Las Vegas this year.
Taking the lessons learned from the Ronin 4D Gimballed Cinema camera, the company is looking to create a gimbal-less version that is more traditional in design but will still enjoy the support of the DJI Ronin ecosystem.
The basic idea is to create a traditional module like Ronin cinema camera that can compete with the likes of the Sony FX6 or Canon C70.
Image Credit – DJI Global
It would seem to be a matter of taking off the gimbal array and attaching the lens mount directly onto the camera module.
If it has the same inner workings as the Ronin 4D, minus the gimbal, this would also equate to a lower retail price, which could be an attractive entry-level cinema configuration for most social media-style shooters.
The Ronin 4D, which is available in both 6K and 8K variants, also enjoys support for various interchangeable lens mounts, including DJI’s own lenses.
To date, there are 45 lenses compatible with the Ronin 4D, including primes from Leica, Sony Tamron, Zeiss, Sigma, Voigtlander, and Sirui. So the rumored cinema camera will have plenty of optical support if, and when it hits the market.
The camera will also support DJI’s in-body image stabilization and internal RAW recording. Other features include built-in neutral density filters, wireless monitoring, and camera control via mobile app, and XLR support.
Moreover, the camera is expected to have an updated DGI SSD module with support for USB4 and Thunderbolt 3, though Thunderbolt 4 could also be a possibility.
The rumored new cinema camera also looks to support v-mount batteries, and likely gold-mount power supply options as well. Lastly, the camera is expected to be compatible with existing Ronin 4D accessories like the 4D Flex camera extension system and the LiDAR-based autofocus module.
This rumor is pretty fresh, with it only appearing on PhotoRumors.com, but it features a leaked image and a definite announcement is expected at NAB in Las Vegas on April 14-17, 2024.
DJI took a break from the confab and only camera back last year when they announced the 8K Ronin 4D gimbal camera, so if the rumor holds true, a new announcement could mean that this will become a tradition for launching new cinema products, much like Blackmagic is known to do on the eve of the confab.
What BMD will have this year is anyone’s guess, but a cinema war between the two companies during NAB could be rather interesting. Both are known for releasing low-cost, high-performance cinema cameras, and competition between the two is bound to benefit content creators looking to move up out of the mirrorless/DSLR style of run-and-gun imaging.
[source: Photo Rumors]
Order links:
- DJI Ronin 4D 4-Axis Cinema Camera 8K Combo Kit with DL PZ 17-28mm T3.0 ASPH Lens (B&H)
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