RED has released another slight indication regarding its low-end camera, by presenting the Stormtrooper version of it. Stormtrooper Komodo is a pre-production model in a very advanced developing stage, which means we have about 3-4 months before shipping. Furthermore, we get a glimpse at the UI plus a fresh update about a global shutter mode. 

A “Badass little RED.”

Although there is still a lot of testing and specs are not locked yet, we know that there is a feature film shot entirely on Komodo (Let Them All Talk). However, this mysterious camera by RED is just entering the pre-production phase. RED has defined it as “Badass little RED.” Nevertheless, according to REDuser discussions, the Komodo is an auxiliary camera and not a replacement for the DSMC brain/sensor system. RED says that the DSMC2 cameras are full capability cameras regarding connection options, modularity, features, and more horsepower. However, according to RED, the Komodo will offer something else, which means you might use it as a B cam that can match precisely with DSMC2 imagery (the Komodo uses the same codec).

Komodo- dedicated to independent filmmakers

By examination of the specs and speculations so far, we can assume that this RED camera will fit better to the indie market. Even though RED had its Raven, it seems that the company tries something completely new here. As state by RED’s president, Jarred Land: “Komodo has advantages over our other cameras, price, size, weight, things the sensor does, etc. but it’s also limited compared to our other cameras in things like frame rates, inputs, and outputs, modularity”.

Komodo has advantages over our other cameras, price, size, weight, things the sensor does, etc. but it’s also limited compared to our other cameras in things like frame rates, inputs, and outputs, modularity

RED’s president, Jarred Land

What do we know about the Komodo so far? 

We accumulated all the info derived from REDUser’s discussions and made a list of what we know about the Komodo so far: 

1. The Komodo has already shot a feature (Let Them All Talk).
2. 6K resolution.
3. Super 35 sensor sized (Not a full-frame).
4. R3D files (REDCODE RAW codec).
5. A new 6K sensor.
6. Lens Mount = Integrated Canon RF.
7. Recording Media = CFAST 2.0.
8. Camera control via integrated LCD.
9. There is no compatibility with DSMC2 monitors.
10. The Komodo can be wirelessly controlled from any smartphone.
11. No option for wireless video feed on smartphones (even on Hydrogen).
12. Maximum 60 FPS.
13. Full sensor 6k 40fps.
14. Global shutter mode
15. Anamorphic options.
16. Built-In full colored touch screen.
17. Size: 4 x 4 inches.
18. Weight: 2 pounds.
19. Price: ~$4,500.

You can expect full sensor 6k 40fps, 6k WS @ 50fps. This means 4k @60fps shouldn’t be a problem, but I have not actually tested that yet. And yes, that’s all in global shutter mode.

RED’s president, Jarred Land

Wrapping up

We were surprised to read Jarred’s post indicating a global shutter mode on Komodo. That’s a definitely cool option. Furthermore, the specs look promising. However, since the Komodo is just entering the pre-production phase, there are possible changes that will be made. Stay tuned. We’ll keep you posted regarding this fascinating camera.