Cinema giant Arri enhances its premier cinematic camera through a substantial model upgrade
ARRI, a pioneer in the digital cinema industry, has unveiled the Alexa 35 Xtreme - an upgrade to its flagship Alexa 35 digital cinema camera. This new model offers filmmakers a host of exciting improvements, making it an ideal choice for high-end productions requiring high frame rate capabilities, extended pre-buffering for candid or unpredictable shots, and efficient data handling without compromising on image fidelity.
High-Speed Shooting and Dynamic Range
The Alexa 35 Xtreme takes high-speed digital cinema capture to new heights, offering frame rates up to an astonishing 660 frames per second (fps). This ultra-smooth slow-motion footage can be captured without the need for a secondary high-speed camera. Remarkably, the camera retains its full 17 stops of dynamic range at frame rates up to 330 fps. A new Sensor Overdrive mode pushes the frame rate ceiling to 660fps, delivering 11 stops of dynamic range[2][3][1].
ARRICORE Codec and Pre-Recording Times
The Alexa 35 Xtreme introduces ARRICORE, a new high-efficiency RGB codec. This codec reduces data rates while maintaining the camera’s renowned image quality. It is compatible with existing Alexa 35 workflows and supported by most third-party postproduction tools[2][3][1].
The camera also boasts five times longer pre-recording times compared to the original Alexa 35. This means up to 30 seconds of pre-recording at 4.6K resolution and up to 5 minutes at HD resolution with Apple ProRes 422 HQ[2][3][1]. These extended pre-buffering times are particularly useful for capturing unpredictable or documentary-style footage.
Improved Performance and Connectivity
A new processor with more and faster onboard memory improves overall camera performance, enabling higher frame rates and enhanced recording capabilities[2][3][5]. The Alexa 35 Xtreme also features a 10% reduction in power consumption and improved WiFi capabilities, contributing to greater efficiency and streamlined wireless control[1][3].
The camera now supports 5 GHz WiFi bands, automatic reconnection, and roaming within mesh networks[4]. These improvements make the Alexa 35 Xtreme more responsive to on-set tools like the Arri Camera Companion App.
Compatibility and Flexibility
The Alexa 35 Xtreme maintains full compatibility with Arri's existing range of mechanical and electronic accessories[1]. This means that users can continue to use their existing lenses, mounts, and accessories without modification. The camera also supports streamlined recording formats to optimize workflow and postproduction flexibility[1].
A Camera for High-End Filmmakers
The Alexa 35 Xtreme is designed for high-end filmmakers and offers a suite of powerful new capabilities. It is available both as a new camera and as an upgrade option for existing Alexa 35 owners[3]. This camera sets a new benchmark for versatility, speed, and post-production efficiency in high-end digital cinema.
[1] - ARRI Press Release [2] - Cinema5D [3] - CineD [4] - Camerasize
- The Alexa 35 Xtreme's Sensor Overdrive mode allows for a high-speed capture of up to 660 frames per second with an impressive 11 stops of dynamic range.
- The new ARRICORE codec in the Alexa 35 Xtreme reduces data rates without compromising image quality, making it compatible with most third-party postproduction tools.
- The Alexa 35 Xtreme offers extended pre-buffering times, with up to 30 seconds of pre-recording at 4.6K resolution and up to 5 minutes at HD resolution using Apple ProRes 422 HQ.
- Improved performance in the Alexa 35 Xtreme is thanks to a new processor with more and faster onboard memory, enabling higher frame rates, enhanced recording capabilities, a 10% reduction in power consumption, and improved WiFi capabilities.
- In addition to its 5 GHz WiFi bands, automatic reconnection, and roaming within mesh networks, the Alexa 35 Xtreme is more responsive to on-set tools like the Arri Camera Companion App.
- The Alexa 35 Xtreme maintains full compatibility with Arri's existing range of mechanical and electronic accessories, allowing users to continue using their existing lenses, mounts, and accessories without modification.
