Description
KOMODO 6K: Ultracompact RED
RED has taken fresh steps with the release of the KOMODO 6K Digital Cinema Camera by bringing their legendary image quality and color science into an ultracompact, all-in-one design that weighs just 2.1 lb and measures about 4 x 4 x 4″. Key to achieving this goal was the use of the Canon RF lens mount and the KOMODO 19.9MP Super35 CMOS sensor which boasts Global Shutter technology. This sensor can create images with 16+ stops dynamic range and eliminates rolling shutter artifacts. Users can also be certain they are getting RED quality thanks to the ability to record up to 6K at 40 fps, 5K at 48 fps, 4K at 60 fps, and 2K at 120 fps in REDCODE RAW for incredible flexibility in post-production.
All-in-One Design
Revolutionary for RED is the creation of an extremely compact all-in-one design with the KOMODO. This means you can simply pop in a CFast 2.0 card into its media slot and you are ready to roll with data rates up to 280 MB/s. A top 2.9″ 1440 x 1440 touchscreen makes it easy to configure and monitor your footage or you can use the RED Control system for using an iOS or Android device for preview and settings. This is possible through integrated 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi. Wired control is also possible via the USB Type-C port and optional adapters. The RED KOMODO 6K offers an exceptionally compact form factor that sacrifices nothing in terms of image quality. This base model includes the KOMODO 6K, a 45W AC power adapter, Mini World Travel Adapter Kit, and a Canon RF-to-EF mechanical adapter.
Firmware Update v.1.5.5
- Fixed playback stuttering at high frame rates, German SLA causing a camera shutdown, and RFB raw metering in 6K full frame
- Improved LCD sync issues in playback with anamorphic formats
- Improved general stability
6K S35 Sensor
- The KOMODO 6K features a 6K Super35 19.9MP CMOS sensor with a dynamic range of 16+ stops and a resolution of 6144 x 3160
- Take advantage of the 6K resolution to capture in 6K full frame or do a 4K or HD crop
- Use the higher resolution to stabilize your shot in post-production
Global Shutter
The KOMODO 6K’s global shutter produces crisp images while reducing motion artifacts.Records fast-moving action the way it should be without blurred or curved lines.Captures every moment, burst, and flash without losing any dynamic range or image quality.
Canon RF Mount
The use of the Canon RF lens mount allows the KOMODO to be extremely compact while still enabling compatibility with a vast range of lenses through the use of optional adapters. The mount will natively support mechanical RF lenses and mechanical EF lenses via the included adapter. Using optional electronic EF-to-RF mount adapters, the KOMODO will even support electronic Canon EF-mount lenses and unlock additional functionality, such as autofocus.
Phase-Detect Autofocus
A first for RED is the ability to use Phase-Detect Autofocus (PDAF) with compatible lenses. This includes adapted Canon EF-mount lenses used with a separately available EF-to-RF adapter with electronic communication. Phase-detect systems are known for their speed by measuring and comparing distance and should provide a reliable, accurate system for video production. Additionally, the touchscreen can be used for quickly changing focus and selecting subjects.
REDCODE RAW
The robust REDCODE RAW file format offers versatility without burdensome storage requirements and editing on many NLE systems without transcoding to save time. The KOMODO promises to be among RED’s finest with the ability to capture up to 6K at 40 fps using the powerful 16-bit REDCODE RAW format. RED has simplified compression options, giving users a choice between HQ, MQ, and LQ, each varying compression from low to high, respectively. Having these choices allows users to choose the best option for each shoot and whether to prioritize data rate or image quality. REDCODE RAW is supported for 5K up to 48 fps, 4K up to 60 fps, and 2K up to 120 fps and will deliver the greatest possible flexibility in post-production. Those looking to use a more conventional format can record natively in Apple ProRes 422 HQ and standard 422 with DCI 4K up to 60 fps or DCI 2K up to 120 fps.
CFast Recording
Capture at rates up to 280 MB/s on RED PRO or qualified third-party CFast 2.0 cards.
REDCODE Options
- HQ is perfect for VFX, extremely detailed scenes, and capturing stills from motion
- MQ is great for cinema and high-end TV projects
- LQ is ideal for TV, online content, documentaries, interviews, and long takes
Apple ProRes Formats
For proxy files or quicker turnaround times than raw files, Apple ProRes can be recorded at 4K and 2K resolutions at rates up to 120 fps (2K).
Color Management
Supports 3D LUTs and RED color science.
Touchscreen Display
Integrated 2.9″ touchscreen LCD screen for video preview and camera control.
Versatile Power Options
The KOMODO 6K’s power options include using two lightweight Canon BP-9 batteries, a larger battery, or an AC power supply.
Ronald –
I rented this camera for 10 days prior to purchasing to test it’s capabilities and workflow. After owning it now for about a month I am even more pleased with this purchase. The latest beta firmware update offers R3D ELQ mode, which saves a lot of space and looks great if you’re uploading to platform like YouTube. The Gio Scope option within False Color is one of my favorites for setting exposure. I set stops 1,2,11 (which is middle grey for this camera) 12,15, and 16. I love this tool! It now offers Face detect auto focus. It seems to works ok on my wider lenses (like Sigma 18-35), but on more telephoto lenses it hunts a bit. Many people have stated purchasing accessories for Red is a significant cost increase, however there are many options for Komodo cages, handles, battery plate options that are similar in cost to other camera accessories. I love the size of this camera and how I can build it out. The Canon 0.71 adapter makes this sensor a bit wider than my other full frame cameras and I love the depth of field it produces. It is not a low light monster like the Sony FX3, however after grading my night time footage it is more than good enough. I am very pleased with this purchase and I have my eyes on the Raptor to pair with it. If your workflow and customer base calls for this type of camera I recommend it.
Sean T –
After years of photography we wanted to dive into video and this really has taken our projects to the next level. Fairly easy to navigate and a LOT of fun editing the footage. Wonderful color science.
Richard O –
I thought this camera was going to be really good but it still impressed me. The picture quality is amazing and the traffic light system is amazingly easy to get used to. Editing RED raw is pretty easy and I have no issues at all on my M1 max MacBook Pro. I was surprised how usable the autofocus is with EF lenses and I use the Canon EF to RF adapter with ND to control exposure. The down sides are as expected in startup time, audio quality, black shading but in the end it’s worth it for the image quality. I still grab my C70 for quick run and gun but for a thought out project with the highest quality image I’ll use the Komodo with my Sound Designs MixPre 3 MK II and I’m happy with the results. I’m using the 7 Atomos Shinobi monitor with both cameras and absolutely love it.
PrivateProxies –
I really like this camera. It’s the cheapest RED you can get. Just be prepared to spend at least 2k in extras to rig it up. I use this for live-stream and I love the global shutter. No flickering to deal with. Post-production with R3D is so awesome you just have to be ready to deal with the storage that it will take. Also, RED will be coming out with a Komodo-X which will probably solve some issues like the lack of frame rates. For my use it’s not super important but for some people that might be a deal breaker.
Private Proxies –
If you’re someone who values image quality above all else, then this camera is for you. It obviously doesn’t have every feature bigger cinema cameras have, but there are things to like about it’s compact size and build. Full sensor 6K 60p would be nice but 4K 60p is still available. That’s my only major drawback but still worth it. Have a great time shooting and thank you RED for making something small/indie filmmakers can buy.