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RED KOMODO-X Black Version and Accessory Packs Launched

RED KOMODO-X Black Version and Accessory Packs Launched

Preorders for the black version of the RED KOMODO-X are now available. This variant shares the same feature set as the white “Stormtrooper” model and retails for $9,995. The company also introduced the KOMODO-X Starter and Production Pack to get you ready to shoot in no time.

Officially introduced a couple of weeks ago, the RED KOMODO-X aims to fill the gap between the original KOMODO 6K and the V-RAPTOR S35. In typical RED-style, the American company first launched a limited edition white “Stormtrooper” version, which will be joined by the “Standard” black production units towards the end of June.

RED KOMODO-X – key features

Since the two versions are essentially the same, I suggest you learn everything about the specs of KOMODO-X, by reading our initial coverage here, if you haven’t already. Anyway, here’s a quick refresher on the key improvements over the original KOMODO 6K:

  • newly-developed 6K (6144 x 3240) S35 (27.03 x 14.26mm) Global Shutter sensor;
  • doubled maximum frame rates of up to 80fps in 6K 17:9 and 120fps in 4K 17:9;
  • about half a stop more dynamic range (claimed);
  • newly-added ProRes 4444XQ, 4444, and 422 LT recording formats;
  • CFexpress Type B media;
  • new locking RF mount;
  • integrated micro V-mount battery plate;
  • redesigned I/O array, similar to V-RAPTOR cameras, with 12G SDI, 5-pin mini XLR audio input, 3.5mm headphone jack, 9-pin EXT port, 6-pin DC IN, Wi-Fi antenna and newly-added USB-C port;
  • support for DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0” LCD Monitor via top pogo pins;
  • two physical user-assignable recording buttons.
RED KOMODO-X black body
RED KOMODO-X black body. Source: RED

I was recently able to spend a couple of hours with a RED KOMODO-X Stormtrooper unit at a local rental house in Northern Italy and, although I cannot speak for image quality yet, I must say that operability has been greatly improved over the original KOMODO.

RED KOMODO-X black body
RED KOMODO-X black body. Source: RED

Considering that most people use an additional V-lock battery plate with their KOMODO, the “X” model turns out to be even more compact overall. Also, when using the Tokina Cinema 50-135mm T2.9 zoom lens, the Locking RF mount seems rock solid.

RED KOMODO-X ST with Tokina Cinema 50-135mm T2.8 zoom lens
RED KOMODO-X ST with Tokina Cinema 50-135mm T2.8 zoom lens. Source: Francesco Andreola / CineD

Also, in my opinion, the new position of the I/O ports can facilitate camera rigging and cable management. However, mind that if you own a set of V-mount batteries with a D-Tap output on the right side of the brick, it is likely that D-Tap will interfere with the new position of the Wi-Fi antenna.

KOMODO-X integrates a micro V-mount battery plate and redesigned IO array
KOMODO-X integrates a micro V-mount battery plate and redesigned IO array. Source: RED

Lastly, the two tactile recording buttons offer a high degree of customization with a total of 4 user-assignable functions (half press and full press on each button). For example, you can use these buttons to quickly toggle on/off monitoring tools, eject your media or even control the intensity of the ND filter when using RED’s new RF to PL Electronic ND Filter Adapter Pack.

The top pogo pins now support the DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0" LCD Monitor
The top pogo pins now support the DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0″ LCD Monitor. Source: RED

RED PRO I/O Module

Along with the new camera body, RED also introduced a dedicated expansion module to further expand the camera’s input/output capabilities and power options. The RED PRO I/O Module attaches directly to the V-mount plate on the back of the body and has a cable that plugs into the camera’s 9-pin EXT port.

RED PRO I/O Module on KOMODO-X
RED PRO I/O Module on KOMODO-X. Source: RED

The module offers DC-IN (11-17V), Genlock (BNC), CTRL (4-Pin), and Timecode (5-pin) ports. You also get a single 3-pin 24V (regulated) Fischer R/S port and two 2-Pin 12V (unregulated) AUX ports.

RED PRO I/O Module on KOMODO-X
RED PRO I/O Module on KOMODO-X. Source: RED

The module comes in two variants to accommodate either V-mount or Gold mount batteries at the back. Also, a tiny screen on the operator side displays status info about voltage and remaining battery life, while a power switch gives you the ability to cut power to the module.

RED KOMODO-X Starter and Production Packs

Furthermore, RED also launched the KOMODO-X Starter and Production accessory packs that essentially include everything you need to start shooting straight away.

Here’s everything you get with the KOMODO-X Starter Pack:

  • 1x KOMODO-X Camera System
  • 2x RED PRO CFexpress 1TB
  • 1x RED CFexpress Card Reader
  • 2x REDVOLT NANO-V
  • 1x RED Compact Dual V-Lock Charger
  • 1x KOMODO Wing Grip
  • 1x KOMODO Outrigger Handle
  • 1x DSMC3 5-Pin to Single 3.5mm Adapter
  • 1x RED EXT-to-Timecode Cable 3’
  • 1-Year Standard Warranty (camera only)
RED KOMODO-X Starter Pack
RED KOMODO-X Starter Pack. Source: RED

The Production Pack is even more premium and comes in two versions, V-mount or Gold mount. It includes:

  • 1x KOMODO-X Camera System
  • 1x DSMC3 RED Touch 7” LCD
  • 2x RED PRO CFexpress 1TB
  • 1x RED CFexpress Card Reader
  • 1x RED Pro V-Lock (or Gold Mount) I/O Module
  • 1x RED Compact Top Handle
  • 1x DSMC3 RED 5-Pin to Dual XLR Adapter
  • 1-Year Standard Warranty (camera only)
RED KOMODO-X Production Pack
RED KOMODO-X Production Pack. Source: RED

Price and availability

The black version of RED KOMODO-X is now available for pre-order from authorized dealers worldwide. The body-only option retails for $9,995 (B&H / CVP), while the official price of the Starter and Production Pack is set at $11,995 and $14,995 respectively.

Furthermore, the great news is that you can now pick up a 1TB version of the RED PRO CFexpress card for just $299.99. This is an extremely affordable price for such high-capacity media and can really help original KOMODO owners make the jump to “X”.

RED PRO CFexpress 1TB card
RED PRO CFexpress 1TB card. Source: RED

Lastly, pricing for the other newly-released RED accessories is as follows:

  • RED PRO I/O Module – $1,095 (B&H / CVP)
  • RED KOMODO RF to PL with Electronic ND Filter Adapter Pack – $3,500 (B&H / CVP)
  • RED Compact Top Handle – $539 (B&H / CVP)
  • REDVOLT NANO-V – $275 (B&H / CVP)

For more information, please visit RED’s website here.

What do you think of the RED KOMODO-X camera system and accessories? Are you going to add “X” to your camera arsenal? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!

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