Sony’s New VENICE 2 Camera is 8.6K
Sony has introduced a new top-of-the-line single-sensor camera called VENICE 2. While the original VENICE introduced in 2017 captures at 6K, VENICE 2 in more than an 8K camera – it is an 8.6K (8640 x 5760) camera. It uses a full-frame sensor that can capture 16-stops of dynamic range and includes a load of other features that allows this camera to set a new high bar for image quality.
The VENICE camera has been well received by top-notch filmmakers, with Sony’s excellent color science, great skin tones, and detachable head making it a popular choice. The VENICE 2 8K camera builds on this. Improved is the dual ISO modes (800/3200), allowing for better low-light capture. It supports everything from full-frame, full-frame anamorphic to Super35, all at a minimum of 4K resolution.
The VENICE 2 chassis allows internal recording of X-OCN and Apple 4K Pro Res 4444 and 422HQ without the AXS-R7 recorder, offering advanced usability in a compact and lightweight body. It leverages new high-speed 6.6 Gbps AXS card AXS-A1TS66 for 8K 60p recording. Existing AXS Memory Card Readers, including AXS-AR3 via Thunderbolt 3 interface, are compatible with the new media. Interestingly, the sensor for the VENICE can be placed on the VENICE 2 body or purchased with the 6K sensor instead.
The graphic below summarizes some of the key features. Note that a wide variety of aspect ratios are possible but with trade-offs in resolution and capture rate.
The VENIC 2 is expected to be available in early 2022. The price with the 8.6K sensor (without lens) will be about $59,500, while the version with the 6K sensor will go for about $54,270. These prices are in the range of an ARRI Alexa LF camera but considerably higher than the newly released RED V-RAPTOR camera at $24,000.
Sony provided accolades from several cinematographers and these videos to illustrate the imaging quality.
