DJI is best known for drones, but now it’s bringing its stabilization technology to professional filmmaking with DJI Ronin 4D.
It combines a new full-frame gimbal camera with a 4-axis stabilization system, lidar focus, and a new video transmission system that promises 8K shooting.
Ronin 4D draws advanced technology from DJI’s drones and other aircraft models to meet the needs of filmmakers. Among them, the new Zenmuse X9 gimbal camera will be available in 6K and 8K versions. The Zenmuse X9-6K supports 6K/60fps and 4K/120fps, while the Zenmuse X9-8K captures 8K/75fps. Both offer codec support for H.264 and Apple ProRes as well as ProRes RAW.
The Ronin 4D has dual native EI of 800/5000 and over 14 stops of dynamic range. In response, DJI has added an interchangeable lens mount design. You can use only DJI’s own DL lenses, Leica M mount lenses, and other mounts with short flange focal lengths. The camera itself integrates an uninterrupted physical ND filter and the proprietary DJI Cinema Color System (DCCS) for more consistent colors and more natural skin tones.
At the same time, in order to reduce jitter, there is also an active Z-axis, which DJI says is the first in the industry. It helps Ronin 4D capture smooth footage, whether the photographer is walking or sliding sideways, without the need for external equipment like pulleys. To make this work, DJI relies on data from downward ToF sensors, forward and downward dual vision sensors, built-in IMUs, and barometers. Meanwhile, ActiveTrack Pro uses artificial intelligence to drive tracking and framing. The new lidar rangefinder also helps, with more than 43,200 ranging points that can reach distances of 10 meters (33 feet) regardless of ambient light.
The result is faster focus locking. The Ronin 4D has three focus modes, of which Auto Manual Focus (AMF) joins the traditional manual and auto modes. The AMF automatically rotates the focus wheel while tracking the focus point, so that the camera operator can also adjust it in real time. In manual mode, there is a lidar waveform that shows the focus point so that it is easier to pull the focus.
In terms of onboard storage, there is a USB SSD for 4K projects, a CFexpress Type-B card slot, and a patented portfolio of DJI PROSSD1TB for the fastest and highest resolution lenses. In addition to the built-in microphone for 2-channel 24-bit recording, there are two 3.5mm jacks on the body and two XLR connectors on the expansion board.
If users want to watch video outside the camera, the new 4D video transmitter can provide a 1080p/60fps video signal to a remote display nearly 20,000 feet away. It uses a combination of 2.4GHz, 5.8GHz and DFS bands, supports multiple receivers connected to a single transmitter, and has AES 256-bit encryption. It works with a new high-brightness remote display that integrates the receiver into a 7-inch display. It has a 1500nit panel and a built-in gyroscope that allows the display to act as a motion controller for motion-based camera control. It will also support the Ronin 4D handlebar, DJI Master Wheels, DJI Force Pro and the new DJI Tri-Channel Follow Focus. Multiple remote monitors can be used simultaneously, each with separate displays of lenses via independent LUTs, and there is a microSD card slot that can record footage at 1080p/60fps.
The TB50 smart battery can shoot for up to 2.5 hours and provides an automatic heating system to allow the battery to work well in low temperature environments. Unsurprisingly, none of this is cheap. The 6K version of the DJI Ronin 4D starts at $7199 and includes the main body, Zenmuse X9-6K gimbal camera, LiDAR rangefinder, high-brightness main display, handlebar, top handle, TB50 smart battery, and carrying case. It will begin shipping in December 2021.
As for the 8K version, it will include the Zenmuse X9-8K Gimbal camera and PROSSD 1TB. It sells for $11,499. DJI promises. The 4D video transmitter, high-brightness remote display, and DJI PROSSD 1TB will also be available separately in the future.