Sony is poised to make a major announcement on March 26, 2025, unveiling the highly anticipated CBK-3621XS (VENICE Extension System Mini). This new addition to the VENICE 2 ecosystem represents a significant evolution in Sony’s approach to high-end digital cinematography. With a focus on flexibility, mobility, and market competitiveness, this release underscores Sony’s strategic positioning within the industry.
The CBK-3621XS: A Game-Changer for Sony’s VENICE 2 System
The CBK-3621XS, also known as the VENICE Extension System Mini, is designed to offer enhanced portability and modularity for professional filmmakers. This product builds upon the success of the CBK-3620XS (VENICE Extension System 2), but with notable improvements:
- 70% Smaller & Lighter: Compared to the previous VENICE Extension System 2, this model dramatically reduces bulk, making it ideal for gimbal work, handheld shots, and tight-space cinematography.
- 8.6K Full-Frame Sensor Compatibility: The unit maintains the VENICE 2’s high-resolution imaging capabilities, ensuring that filmmakers get uncompromised image quality.
- Soft & Detachable Cable System: Unlike previous versions, which required bulkier cables, the new CBK-3621XS features a more flexible system to facilitate virtual production and XR filmmaking.
- Dual Mount System: The native E-Mount allows for use with Sony’s expanding line of cinema lenses, while an included PL mount adapter ensures compatibility with traditional cine lenses.
- Metadata & Lens Communication: Just like its predecessors, the system supports lens metadata recording, crucial for VFX-heavy productions and post-production workflows.
With these upgrades, the CBK-3621XS is tailored for the evolving demands of modern cinematography, particularly in Hollywood productions, commercial filmmaking, and virtual production environments.
Why Is Sony Releasing the CBK-3621XS Now?
Sony’s decision to introduce a more compact and versatile extension system aligns with key industry trends and market demands:
1. The Rise of Virtual Production & XR
Filmmakers are increasingly using LED volumes, XR stages, and virtual sets to enhance creativity and efficiency. The CBK-3621XS’ lightweight form factor and flexible rigging options make it an excellent tool for these setups.
2. Expanding the VENICE Ecosystem
Sony’s VENICE series has become a favorite in Hollywood, competing against ARRI’s ALEXA LF/65 and RED’s V-RAPTOR XL. By offering a compact solution, Sony strengthens the VENICE lineup’s appeal to filmmakers needing high-end quality in small, mobile packages.
3. Competing Against ARRI & RED in High-End Cinema
ARRI’s ALEXA Mini LF and RED’s KOMODO and V-RAPTOR systems have dominated the compact cinema camera space. The CBK-3621XS allows Sony to bridge the gap between full-size cinema cameras and modular compact setups, appealing to productions that demand both flexibility and cinematic quality.
4. Futureproofing Sony’s Cinema Line
With AI-driven cinematography, high-resolution capture, and real-time VFX pipelines becoming standard, Sony aims to ensure the VENICE ecosystem remains relevant, adaptable, and cutting-edge.
Sony’s Market Strategy & The Future of Its Cinema Line
Sony has long positioned itself as a leader in digital cinematography, and its latest move with the CBK-3621XS signals a clear commitment to the industry’s future. This strategy includes:
- Strengthening its foothold in Hollywood productions by making the VENICE lineup more adaptable.
- Appealing to independent filmmakers and commercial productions that require a high-end look in a more manageable form factor.
- Competing directly with ARRI, RED, and Blackmagic Design by offering an extension system that maintains VENICE’s premium imaging while improving usability.
- Expanding into new filmmaking applications, such as virtual production, XR, and ‘tricked’ cinematography.
Discontinuation of the FX9 & Its Limited Availability
As Sony refines its cinema lineup, the PXW-FX9, one of its most popular full-frame cinema cameras, has been officially discontinued. This marks a shift in Sony’s strategy, moving focus toward the VENICE series and its newer FX lineup. Despite its discontinuation, the FX9 remains highly sought-after by filmmakers due to its excellent image quality, full-frame sensor, and professional video features. The only remaining place to purchase a new FX9 is via Amazon: Sony PXW-FX9 Full-Frame Camera on Amazon.
The CBK-3621XS is NOT the Camera Used for the Upcoming F1 Movie
It’s important to note that Sony’s CBK-3621XS is not the camera system used in the highly anticipated F1 movie directed by Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt. The production utilized a custom-built camera system developed specifically for the demands of high-speed cinematography, incorporating IMAX-certified setups and modified digital cinema cameras. For an in-depth look at the technology behind the F1 movie, read IMAX 1.90:1 F1 Trailer Unleashed – Why You Must Experience This Movie in the Huge Canvas and Behind the Scenes: The Cutting-Edge Cinematography of the Upcoming F1 Movie.
Final Thoughts: Where Does the CBK-3621XS Fit in Sony’s Cinema Line?
With this release, Sony is reinforcing its commitment to innovation and versatility in the professional cinema market. The CBK-3621XS is not just a peripheral accessory but a strategic move to future-proof the VENICE ecosystem, making it more competitive against ARRI, RED, and even high-end mirrorless systems like the Sony FX6 and FX9. As the March 26, 2025 announcement approaches, filmmakers and industry professionals eagerly await official pricing, availability, and additional features. If Sony prices the CBK-3621XS competitively, it could become a must-have tool for high-end cinematography, ensuring the VENICE 2 remains a dominant force in the market. Stay tuned for more updates as Sony unveils its latest cinema innovation.
