RED unveils its latest super-high-end - and super-expensive - 8K camera

RED is a brand often associated with professional content creators, an increasing number of YouTubers included, (if not much else). Therefore, they may all be thrilled to learn that the OEM has unveiled its latest unit, signature compact cube shape and all, today (September 1, 2021).

The V-Raptor ST is also the first of its new DSMC3 series. It is built around a 35.4MP VV sensor, rated to capture 8K at 120 frames per second (fps), 4K at 240fps, or 2K at 480fps. It also supports the 6K S35 format, and has a dual 4K 12G-SDI output.

RED asserts that it can scan twice as fast as its next most powerful camera, and has a dynamic range raised to 17 stops or more. The RED V-Raptor ST's aluminum-alloy chassis has various mounts and attachments on all sides, a lens mount compatible with an adapter for Canon RF lenses included.

The new unit also has an inbuilt display, although it is just for camera settings and not video previews. On the other hand, it can send data at up to 1080p wirelessly by itself. It also,  has a card slot for standard CFexpress storage, whereas many other RED cameras famously will not.

Hopefully, its US$24,500 price is worth this possible advantage. There is also a bundle that includes the detachable RED Touch 7-inch LCD screen - which, as this component is proprietary and goes to DSMC3-series cameras only, might become necessary - as well as a CFexpress card reader, a 660GB RED-branded PRO card, 2 battery packs with a charger, grips and an EXT-to-Timecode Cable, going for $29,579.99 in total. Either option is available to order from RED.com from now.