RED has posted a picture of a new camera. The picture only shows the right (of left) side of the camera (a well-known RED’s marketing strategy). From the picture, it can be confirmed that this is a new high-end model that can shoot 8K at 120FPS. Basically, there’re two options: A new line of cameras (DSMC3) or an advanced model of Komodo (Komodo Ranger). Here are our assumptions.

RED’s new camera

The unreleased camera was posted by RED Digital Cinema CEO, Jarred Land. The first picture published was a skull (RED’s symbol) with a hidden ‘R’ mark. The second picture posted showed the camera side panel plus the user interface. The camera is a Stormtrooper model which means it’s going to be a whole new lineup. Furthermore, the interface is similar to the interface implemented in Komodo. By assembling the evidence, this model can indicate two possibilities: Ranger Komodo, or DSMC3. We’d guess that this is a teaser of the upcoming DSMC3 lineup. 

Why DSMC3?

First, it’s not the Komodo. The RED Komodo was made for a certain purpose, and that’s to replace the GoPro which wasn’t good enough for the big screen. The Komodo is designed as an action cinema camera. It’s small and compact, and thus, a ‘Ranger’ version would be the opposite of that concept. Also, the Komodo is not specialized in shooting high frame rates. It’s just not its bread and butter. Second, the DSMC3 was planned to be released in 2020-2021, which is about time. Third, although the interface looks similar to the Komodo, there’s a chance that DSMC3 will take along some of this, like the simplified compression rate (explore the R3D LQ in the picture). Last but not least, there’s a new jump in specs here, as this camera is capable of shooting 8K at 120FPS, which indicates a new high-end model. So this is our guess: DSMC3 is coming.

DSMC3 wish list

If this camera is indeed DSMC3, then we’d like to see the improvements (=wish list) below:

1. Faster Boot Times
2. Audio improvements
3. Internal ND
4. Professional audio module
5. Better lowlight performance (besides Gemini)
6. Better power management
7. No black shading is needed (without sensor calibration)
8. Display: Smoother and more responsive menu/ touchscreen
9. Better GUI (Graphical User Interface)
10. Image stabilization
11. Improved auto-focus
12. CFast/standard media compatibility
13. Less expensive media
14. Reduced rolling shutter (or global shutter)
15. High fps at full sensor readout
16. Better cooling system

It seems that part of this with-list was accomplished in the Komodo.

What do you think this camera is? Take your bet!

Live Updates

Sensor size: Vista Vision

RED has posted another picture of the camera, unveiling the size of the sensor. The camera will be armed with a VV (Vista Vision) sensor, which is the same size as Monstro (the biggest sensor of RED cameras). As we know, the DSMC3 lineup will be focused on large sensors. Check out the picture below: 

RED Digital Cinema will host a live stream on YouTube probably presenting the new camera. The live stream is scheduled to be on air at 10 PST. See it below: