Introducing the Redesigned RED KOMODO-X 6K S35 Compact Cinema Camera

05/16/2023Link6

It’s springtime, and in addition to welcoming great weather, B&H welcomes brand-new offerings from RED Digital Cinema. Heads up, videographers! These offerings include the updated RED KOMODO-X ST cinema camera and several accessories, including the NANO-V battery, Compact Top Handle, and RF to PL lens mount adapters for the KOMODO and V-RAPTOR lines. The new KOMODO-X keeps all the great features of the original KOMODO with a complete redesign of the sensor and multiple enhancements of the body and connectivity. Initially, the KOMODO-X will be released as a Limited Edition ST model, and a production model will follow soon after.

Update: RED has just announced the standard KOMODO-X in a black finish which is available for order now that the Limited Edition "ST" model is sold out. It shares the same specifications as the KOMODO-X ST announced here.

The RED KOMODO-X ST Limited Edition Cinema Camera
The RED KOMODO-X ST Limited Edition Cinema Camera

A Next-Gen Sensor

Retaining the size of the original KOMODO 6K S35 global shutter sensor, RED has redesigned an entirely new sensor for the KOMODO-X to feature even more detail in the shadows, enhance color depth, and double-supported frame rates to 6K80 and 4K120 to encourage even more creative cinematography.

Updated Camera Body and Connectivity

Though the KOMODO-X remains ultra-small like its predecessor, its form has been updated to match the feature set and accessories of the RED DSMC3 line more closely. It now accepts micro V-mount batteries such as the NANO-V without requiring an adapter, unlike the original KOMODO with its BP-9-type mount. And with the future RED PRO I/O accessory, you will be able to power the camera using aux power, V-mount, or Gold-mount batteries.

KOMODO-X I/O and V-Mount Battery Plate
KOMODO-X I/O and V-Mount Battery Plate

The camera’s I/O has also been updated, retaining the 12G-SDI output, 9-pin Genlock/TC EXT port, and remote connector, but adding a 5-pin audio input for an optional DSMC3 Dual XLR or 3.5mm Adapter, a smaller 2.4" LCD screen, a USB-C output for data connection, and full-size 4-pin power input.  

An IP-based workflow is essential for an efficient production, and the KOMODO-X supports USB-C connectivity for offloading and control, as well as Wi-Fi connectivity for RED Control or RED Control Pro and media offloading over IP via FTP or Cloud Uploading connections. It also supports PTP/tri-level genlock sync to create LED Volume Wall productions.

New Accessories

The KOMODO-X features the same locking, reinforced RF mount as the original KOMODO, and now RED has released two new adapters that provide PL-mount Lens compatibility with /i connectivity using the RF to PL Adapter for KOMODO. V-RAPTOR owners need not feel left out, as a new RF to PL Adapter has also been created for the V-RAPTOR to extend your options. Each adapter also includes mounting plates and an electronic ND filter adapter pack, which includes a clear filter and an electronic ND filter with a range of 2 to 7 stops in 1/4, 1/3, or 1-stop increments.

RF to PL Mount Adapter Kit
RF to PL Mount Adapter Kit

In partnership with CoreSWX, RED created the NANO-V ultra-compact V-mount battery for the KOMODO-X, which weighs only 10 oz, so it’s ideal for gimbal and drone operation, and it’s flat enough to ensure that the battery is flush to the camera surface, so it doesn’t interfere with cages or accessories. It features a 49Wh capacity with a 6A draw, and it can simultaneously power the camera and the RED Touch 7.0" Monitor for short durations.

RED NANO-V Ultra-Compact V-Mount Battery
RED NANO-V Ultra-Compact V-Mount Battery

Finally, the best way to carry the KOMODO-X is with the new Compact Top Handle to provide a secure way to transport the camera and capture low-angle shots. It is designed specifically for KOMODO-X and DSMC3 cameras with wood inlays to provide a comfortable hold, and it features a trigger control button. You can also mount a monitor on top using the 15mm monitor mount.

RED Compact Top Handle for KOMODO-X
RED Compact Top Handle for KOMODO-X

For more information about the new KOMODO-X and lens adapters, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product page for the KOMODO-X ST. Or drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to answer all your comments and questions.

Comments

6 Comments

It seems worth mentioning that the limited-edition ST version sold out fairly quickly, and now most of us have to now wait for the regular (black) version, or even longer for an upcoming white version.   The "ORDER NOW" button does take you to a pre-order page for the regular black version.   Any guesstimates about how long that wait is likely to be will be welcome!

Hi Keith - 

We do not have a reliable ETA from RED at this time.  Please sign-up for e-mail notifications regarding this new product.

 

Does the new sensor still have that same ISO issue as the first Komodo?  How it's rated at 800 only or something?  Some people I know shot with the original Komodo and didn't go above 400 even at night.  Strange how the video doesn't even mention ISO. Not familiar with that R3D workflow.  The specs page doesn't even mention ISO.

Hi Jay - 

We have not noted any issues with the new sensors.

Is there a way to stabilize the RED footage using GPS or IMU data? Like Sony or Freefly?

Hi Andrew - 



There are currently 2 RED cameras which record gyro data internally: V-Raptor and KOMODO

RED cameras record motion data internally in the .R3D files and Gyroflow supports these files directly.