As expected, RED Digital Cinema has just announced its next DSMC3 camera, titled Komodo-X. RED introduces the Komodo-X as the next evolution in the Komodo family, multiplying the frame rates, dynamic range, and usability of the original Komodo to break new ground. All details are below.

Next Generation Komodo Sensor

The Komodo-X features the same sized 6K S35 Global Shutter sensor as the Komodo but with a ground-up redesign and key architecture improvements. Improved detail and color in shadows, paired with double the frame rates at 6K 80P and 4K 120P. Explore the commercial below: 

Enhanced body and I/O

With critical improvements for professional workflows, the Komodo-X now shares many features with the DSMC3 line while maintaining the impressively small Komodo form factor. An integrated micro V-Lock allows for direct attachment of professional micro V-Lock batteries without the need for adapters and is also compatible with the upcoming RED Pro I/O Module to provide auxiliary power and compatibility with full-sized V-Lock and Gold Mount batteries. A reinforced RF lens mount with a locking mechanism maintains the flexibility of toolless switching between multiple lens mount types while providing the stability and rigidity professionals need. Komodo-X is also fully compatible with /i PL lenses using the RED RF to PL Adapter. 12G SDI, full-sized DC-IN, USB Type-C, and a phantom-powered locking audio connector further enable Komodo-X to integrate into any professional workflow seamlessly. Komodo-X is compatible with DSMC3 RED 5-Pin to Single 3.5mm Adapter to support existing Komodo microphones, or the DSMC3 RED 5-Pin to Dual XLR Adapter for general-purpose XLR microphones. An integrated 2.9” LCD allows for simplified control and image preview in compact setups. For more precise monitoring, Komodo-X supports the DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0″ LCD which provides a daylight-viewable, high-resolution, camera-top monitor and control solution without the mess of cables.

IP Connected

Komodo-X is a powerful platform for any IP-based workflow, from virtual production to live broadcast. With an integrated USB Type-C connection and built-in Wi-Fi, remotely control the camera using RED Control or RED Control Pro and IP media offloading using FTPS or in-camera Cloud Uploading functionality. In addition, Komodo-X supports frame-accurate PTP synchronization or tri-level genlock sensor sync with the ability to offset on the fly to support multi-camera LED volume productions. Komodo-X also supports RED Connect, a licensed feature that allows for live broadcasting of 6K images directly from the camera over IP, expanding RED’s cinematic imagery into boundless new uses.

Tech spec

Here are the tech specs of the Komodo-X:

• Sensor: Komodo-X 19.9MP Super 35mm Global Shutter CMOS
• Effective pixels: 6144 x 3240
• Sensor size: 27.03 mm x 14.26 mm (Diagonal: 30.56mm)
• Dynamic range (advertised): 16.5+ stops
• Mount: Integrated locking RF mount with electronic communication. Supports /i PL lenses with RED RF to PL Adapters. Supports Canon EF Adapter with communication and other adapters based on the RF mount.
• Max data rates: Up to 560 MB/s using RED branded or other qualified CFexpress media cards
• Max frame rates (R3D): 80 fps at 6K 17:9 (6144 x 3240), 96 fps at 5K 17:9 (5120 x 2700), 120 fps at 4K 17:9 (4096 x 2160), 240 fps at 2K 17:9 (2048 x 1080)
• Playback frame rates: 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 50, 59.94, 60 fps, all resolutions
• Best R3D settings: REDCODE HQ, MQ, LQ, and ELQ at 6K 17:9 (6144 x 3240) up to 80 fps | REDCODE HQ, MQ, LQ, and ELQ at 4K 17:9 (4096 x 2160) up to 120 fps | REDCODE HQ, MQ, LQ, and ELQ at 2K 17:9 (2048 x 1080) up to 240 fps
• REDCODE RAW acquisition formats: 6K 17:9 (6144 x 3240), 2:1, 2.4:1, 16:9. 1:1, and Anamorphic 2x, 1.8x, 1.6x, 1.5x, 1.3x, 1.25x | 5K 17:9 (5120 x 2700) and 16:9 | 4K 17:9 (4096 x 2160) and 16:9 | 2K 17:9 (2048 x 1080)
• Apple ProRes: Dedicated recording in 4K (4096 x 2160) ProRes 4444 XQ up to 60 fps, ProRes 4444 up to 80 fps, and ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422, and ProRes 422 LT up to 120 fps
• Construction: Aluminum Alloy
• Dimensions: 129.37 x 101.26 x 95.26 mm / 5.1 x 4 x 3.8
• Weight: 2.62lbs (without body cap and CFexpress card)
• Media type: CFexpress Type B
• Battery type: Integrated V-Lock battery interface optimized for Micro V-Lock Batteries
• Color management: Image Processing Pipeline 2 (IPP2). Supports 33×33×33 3D LUTs. Supports import and adjustment of CDLs
• Audio: Integrated dual channel digital mono microphones, uncompressed, 24-bit 48 kHz | Integrated dual channel (mic/line/+48V) input via 5-Pin 00B Audio Port, uncompressed, 24-bit 48 kHz
• Autofocus: Phase Detect and Contrast

Price and availability

The Komodo-X costs $9,995 USD and is available to order from the RED.com store. You can also preorder it from the B&H website. For now, there’s no sample footage, just dry data. More insights to come. Stay tuned.