No, it’s not a new product, but a sort of a recap of the RED Digital Cinema ecosystem. The RED ARSENAL is a new section on RED’s website that elaborates on the cameras and solutions and connects the dots regarding DSMC2, Ranger, and Komodo. Let’s have a look.
The RED ecosystem
We can say that the ecosystem of RED Digital Cinema was completed with the born of the Komodo which has caused significantly expanding the market share of R3D shooters. The Komodo can be defined as an entry-level RED camera that can be merged with the DSMC2 and Rangers as the color science and pipeline are similar. This concept is well demonstrated in a new section on RED”s website called ARSENAL.
RED ARSENAL
This section is very well simplified and explanatory, especially for those who are not familiar with RED cameras. The section is divided into 3 parts. The first part is a superficial overview of RED’s solution and design: Ranger, DSMC2, and Komodo. The second shows the difference in sensor size, and the third is composed of educational videos on the camera systems, sensors, and possible implementations. For instance, here’re the definitions of each system by RED:
- DSMC2: “Modularity is the key”. The DSMC2 can be rigged as small or large as needed and is available with 4 sensor options: Monstro 8K VV, Helium 8k S35, Gemini 5k S35, and Dragon-x 6k S35.
- RANGER: “Ultimate in reliability and standardization with a unibody design”. Available with 3 sensor options: Monstro 8k VV, Helium 8K S35, and Gemini 5K S35.
- KOMODO: “A compact cinema camera” with 6k global shutter sensor technology in a small and versatile form factor.
Sensor sizes and practical usage
The segment of the sensor sizes in the ARSENAL section focuses on four sensors: MONSTRO 8K VV for large format cinematography, HELIUM 8K S35 for those who seek more resolution, GEMINI 5K S35 for low light implementations, and KOMODO 6K S35 for drone and mobile applications. The sensors’ utilization is demonstrated in the video with an emphasis on practical usage by comparing it to other DSMC2. In other words, RED wants you to know that it has a broad range of solutions for a broad range of shooters. Junior filmmakers may choose the Komodo, more advanced shooters may look into the power and modularity of DSMC2, and high-end Hollywood productions may find the Ranger as their ideal fit.
Initial thoughts
The RED ARSENAL is a good educational resource to start with, especially for those who are curious about the RED ecosystem. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to explore how DSMC3 fits here.
