Panavision Millennium Digital XL 8K – Best of Three Worlds

Panavision Millennium Digital XL 8K

Panavision threw their hat in high-end large format cinema camera ring creating the Panavision Millennium Digital XL 8K competing directly with the Arri Alexa 65.  They recruited a top-class dream team such as RED and Light Iron to bring innovative technology to the motion picture world with the filmmaker’s workflow in mind.

It marries for the first time the lenses to the camera to the workflow.” – Haluki Sadahiro

Panavision focused on the lens optics, while Light Iron added their amazing cinematic color science and RED developed their jaw-dropping 8K sensor to create an advanced system that has never been seen before.

The steadicam dovetail innovation allows them to go from studio-use to steadicam in seconds. Its dual-cooling system during recording has no match.

https://vimeo.com/168869375

The lightweight, 10 lb. camera shoots a simultaneous 8k RAW file along with a ProRes or DNx 4K file allowing users to take advantage of a direct-to-edit workflow.

Sadly, this camera is rental system only, coming to rental stores Q1 of 2017.

This camera is a clear contender.

Tech specs:

  • Sensor Type: 16-bit, 35.5 Megapixel CMOS
  • Resolution: 8192 x 4320
  • Sensor Size: Large Format: 40.96mm x 21.60mm (Diagonal: 46.31mm)
  • Dynamic Range: 15 stops
  • Max Frame Rate: 60 fps at 8K Full Frame (8192 x 4320), 75 fps at 8K 2.4:1 (8192 x 3456)
  • Recording Codec: 8K RAW with simultaneous 4K proxy (ProRes or DNx)
  • Recording Media: SSD (up to 1 hour on a single magazine)
  • File Type: *.r3d (supported in RED SDK)
  • Color Profile: Light Iron Color (compatible with all popular gamuts and transfer curves)
  • Weight: 10 lbs.

Additional Features

  • Six independent video outputs
  • Supports 6 independent 1D LUTs or up to 4 independent 3D LUTs
  • Directly motorize Primo 70 lenses through wireless control
  • Built-in wireless timecode for genlock (Ambient Control Network)
  • Dual menus (Operator side, Assistant side)
  • Advanced airflow system for superior temperature management
  • Custom cheese plate with integrated electronics
  • Modular and tool-less quick changeover accessories