DJI mimics the Sony VENICE, by announcing a dedicated extension/tether system for its flagship- the Ronin 4D. Titled Ronin 4D Flex, this smart technological bypass allows the Ronin 4D to shoot 8K ProRes RAW. However, a particular licensee is needed, and it’s not so cheap. All details are below.

Update (9/3/2023)

The ability to record ProRes RAW in the Ronin 4D is not connected to the Flex. We got a call from DJI stating: ” Just wanted to clarify that ProRes RAW is now available for the Ronin 4D regardless of if you buy the 4D Flex system. We wanted to make sure your readers knew they wouldn’t have to buy the Ronin 4D Flex in order to utilize ProRes RAW n their Ronin 4Ds”. Hence, in order to record ProRes RAW on the Ronon 4D, all you have to do is to purchase a dedicated license ($980 USD). 

Ronin 4D Flex

DJI has just announced the Ronin 4D Flex. As stated by DJI: “Ronin 4D Flex is ready to take things even further, with expanded camera position and movement flexibility that delivers better shots in all spaces. And finally, you can now purchase a license key for the Apple ProRes RAW codec at the DJI Store, making it even easier to integrate Ronin 4D footage into cinema productions”. Yes- it seems that a DJI has invested tons of R&D in order to bypass the RED Digital Cinema compressed raw patent, which has limited the previous version of Ronin 4D to activate the ProRes RAW feature. Now, with a solution that looks like an imitation of the acclaimed Sony VENICE Rialto Extension Unit, the Ronin 4D (Flex) can shoot that desired codec. Hence – an extortion system to bypass patent limitation. Sounds cool (and smart). Anyway, the tech specs are below. Before, feel free to check out this impressive demonstration by DJI:

Enabling ProRes RAW

The DJI Ronin 4D Flex allows operators to separate the Zenmuse X9 gimbal camera from the main body, reducing handheld weight and size to achieve footage with more flexible camera movement. “Seamless compatibility with the 4D Hand Grips and Main Monitor effectively transforms a camera operator into a one-man cinema unit” DJI adds and emphasizes: “Finally, an activation license key for the Apple ProRes RAW codec on Ronin 4D is now available for purchase at the DJI Store, making it even easier to integrate Ronin 4D footage into cinema productions”. Finally, as stated by Paul Pan, Senior Product Line Manager at DJI: “We want to express that when it comes to what’s possible with DJI Pro, we’re only getting started”. If so, there will be more good surprises in the near future.

Flexibility is the key

Ronin 4D Flex provides creators with a more flexible and committed camera movement system and a unique creative experience. Solo operators can separate the X9 gimbal camera from the main body, reducing the handheld weight of Ronin 4D to 1.8kg. Also, according to DJI, the 4D Flex also makes the X9 gimbal camera compatible with various rigs and lets professional crews shoot footage that was previously extremely difficult or even impossible, such as cinema-quality through-shots and dynamic camera interiors.

Real-Time Control

Connecting Ronin 4D Flex to the main body is a 2m ultra-thin coaxial cable, supporting lossless transmission of up to 8K. This allows high-speed signals from the camera sensor to reach the main body instantly, and also control and monitor signals to be delivered in real-time. This solid cable connection allows 4D Flex higher flexibility of camera positions. It also allows the Zenmuse X9 gimbal camera to be used as an ultra-small cinematic-grade remote head.

Compatibility with the Ronin ecosystem

Ronin 4D Flex is compatible with the Ronin ecosystem of professional cinematography solutions. Native compatibility with Ronin 4D’s Hand Grips and the Main Monitor provides cinematographers with solutions, including cinematic imaging, 3-axis stabilization, LiDAR focusing, and professional monitoring and control. Switching between Flex and the integrated configuration on set is fast and no tools are required for this transition, providing greater versatility. For static shots, the standard Pan Axis Quick-Lock with accessories pushes the limits of the gimbal’s payload, supporting telephoto, cinema zoom, and anamorphic lenses.

Price and Availability

Ronin 4D Flex will be available for purchase today from authorized retailers and at www.store.dji.com for USD $929 and includes Ronin 4D Flex, one Pan Axis Quick-Lock, two Ronin 4D Hand Grip Adapters, and 2 Hand Grip Adapter Cables. The Apple ProRes RAW license for Ronin 4D will be available for purchase today at www.store.dji.com for USD $979. 

Final thoughts

As our last sentence suggests, you should ask yourself if there’s a solid justification to pay almost $2,000 for the ability to shoot ProRes RAW on the not-so-cheap Ronin 4D. In our opinion, as opposed to the title, the main advantage here is that the Flex allows you to use heavy lenses on the system. However, this extension neutralizes the advantages of Ronin 4D… to shoot with ‘4D stabilization’. Nevertheless, DJI proves again that innovation is king. Not many will purchase the Flex for the ability to shoot ProRes RAW if any, but you got to admit, from a technological point of view, this solution is pretty impressive.

Update (9/3/2023)

The ability to record ProRes RAW in the Ronin 4D is not connected to the Flex. We got a call from DJI stating: ” Just wanted to clarify that ProRes RAW is now available for the Ronin 4D regardless of if you buy the 4D Flex system. We wanted to make sure your readers knew they wouldn’t have to buy the Ronin 4D Flex in order to utilize ProRes RAW n their Ronin 4Ds”. Hence, in order to record ProRes RAW on the Ronon 4D, all you have to do is to purchase a dedicated license ($980 USD). 

Product List

Here’re the products mentioned in the article, and the links to purchase them from authorized dealers. 

• DJI Ronin 4D 4-Axis Cinema Camera 6K Combo Kit
  • BUY on B&H

• DJI Ronin 4D 4-Axis Cinema Camera 8K Combo Kit
  • BUY on B&H
• DJI Ronin 4D Flex Extension Unit
  • BUY on B&H

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