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Pixboom has unveiled the Spark, a Super 35 global-shutter high-speed camera that records compressed RAW at up to 10 GB/s, hits 670 fps in 4.6K open gate and 2,182 fps in 2K 2.37:1, and debuts today on Kickstarter as late-stage prototypes go on show at IBC 2025.
The just-announced (and earlier teased) Pixboom Spark targets professional slow-motion work with an integrated media workflow, interchangeable electronic lens mounts, and comprehensive I/O in a compact 1.1 kg body. The campaign opens with an early-bird pledge of 7,999 US dollars including a Pixboom Pro Card, moving to 8,499 dollars during Kickstarter, with a 12,999-dollar MSRP planned for retail. Pixboom plans first shipments in Q1 2026.
High-speed cameras are still a rare breed, with the Freefly Ember a “budget” alternative so far. But Pixboom takes that to a new level.
At the core is a 14.2 MP Super 35 CMOS sensor with true global shutter, measuring 25.34 × 16.90 mm at 4.6K open gate (4608 × 3072). Pixboom quotes more than 13 stops of dynamic range and notes that no OLPF is used. The sensor is back-side illuminated and features dual native ISO for improved low-light performance.
Headline speeds include 670 fps at 4.6K open gate (3:2), 887 fps at DCI 4K 16:9, 1,171 fps at 4K 2.37:1, 1,724 fps at 2K 16:9, and 2,182 fps at 2K 2.37:1. A user-settable pre-record buffer captures approximately 2–3 seconds before the trigger, which is useful for action, wildlife, and documentary moments that are hard to time.
Spark’s compressed RAW is designed to retain sensor latitude while keeping file sizes manageable. Recording is to the removable Pixboom Pro Card, engineered for sustained writes up to 10 GB/s and direct 20 Gbps offload via USB-C (USB 3.2 Gen2x2), so no dedicated reader is required. Pixboom says third-party SSDs may be usable for lower-bitrate compressed formats in future firmware, but performance is not guaranteed. A new Pixboom Cine application will support RAW processing, with work under way toward direct NLE support.
Connections include 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 video outputs (up to 4K 60p over SDI), USB-C, and dual-band Wi-Fi. A 9-pin EXT port provides genlock, linear timecode (LTC), and GPIO. On-body monitoring is via a 3.5-inch, 6.22-million-dot top-plate touchscreen. The camera includes exposure and monitoring tools plus full anamorphic de-squeeze options. A Pixboom Control App enables remote control and live preview over Wi-Fi.
Machined from aluminum alloy, the Spark measures 108 × 110 × 130 mm and weighs under 1.1 kg (without mount and media). It features an integrated V-mount battery plate and a 15–24 V DC-in for external power. The interchangeable locking mount supports electronic lens communication and metadata, with third-party-manufactured mounts and adapter support to broaden lens choices. Silver or black finishes will be available.
Working prototypes are on the IBC show floor (Hall 12, booth F23) for media and user testing, and we will shoot a video interview about this camera – and hopefully some demo footage – on the show floor when we are there.
The Kickstarter launch (from September 17) opens at 7,999 US dollars for super-early backers including a Pro Card, then 8,499 dollars during the campaign, with a planned 12,999-dollar retail price – more on their website. Pixboom targets Q1 2026 deliveries to early adopters.
The Spark aims to bring pro slow motion to a broader market with a simpler workflow and aggressive pricing, but what would you test first if you got hands-on: low-light high-fps shots, VFX plates, or sports action?
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Nino Leitner, AAC is Co-CEO of CineD and MZed. He co-owns CineD (alongside Johnnie Behiri), through his company Nino Film GmbH. Nino is a cinematographer and producer, well-traveled around the world for his productions and filmmaking workshops. He specializes in shooting documentaries and commercials, and at times a narrative piece. Nino is a studied Master of Arts. He lives with his wife and two sons in Vienna, Austria.