The All New DJI Ronin 4D
DJI have seemingly done it again. With the new release of the DJI Ronin 4D, DJI have created an exciting new piece of technology that can change how cinematographers are able to tell their stories.
Simply, the Ronin 4D is an all-in-one gimbal & recorder. With modular 4 axis stabilization, and integrated camera, this new piece of equipment offers cinematographers a completely unique tool that's uses are only limited by the imagination of the person wielding it. As mentioned the Ronin 4D is an all-in-one gimbal & recorder, but it's also much more than that. Out-of-box the gimbal setup includes a high-bright main monitor, top handle, dual hand grips, video transmitter, range finder, focus motor and even more! I know, it's pretty crazy. This gimbal is a complete package, taking certain types of filmmaking, like run-and-gun, to a whole new level.
Let's dive into some of the technical specifications of the camera attached to the gimbal system. The DJI Ronin 4D comes with a Zenmuse X9 camera built into the gimbal system itself. The Zenmuse X9 is DJI's flagship full-frame camera, but the system also incorporates DJI's latest processing system, CineCore 3.0. Featuring a full-frame CMOS sensor, the DJI Ronin 4D can record up to 8k resolution at 75 fps, while showcasing an impressive 14+ stops of dynamic range and dual native ISO's of 800 and 4000. Furthermore, the Ronin 4D has built-in ND filters of up to 9 stops. If this hasn't impressed you yet, there's still a lot more to come with this package.
One of the coolest features of this gimbal system, in my opinion, is the integrated design of the 4D Wireless Transmitter and the High-Bright Remote Monitor. This system allows the operator to remove the Hand Grips of the Ronin 4D and allows for remote operation of the gimbal system while mounted to a car, for example. Another added feature to this High-Bright Remote Monitor is that it has a built-in microSD card which supports recording and playback up to 1080p at 60 fps.
When I mentioned this piece of gear is an all-in-one system, I really meant it. The DJI Ronin 4D also comes with a built in microphone that supports dual-channel 24-bit audio recording. This microphone can be great to use as a guide track as the quality isn't necessarily the best, but regardless the Ronin 4D also has two XLR inputs and a 3.5mm audio jack to add additional audio recording equipment.
All-in-all DJI have come up with a very exciting new piece of equipment that definitely pushes the boundaries of modern day gimbal systems. While there may be a few limitations to the system itself, the Ronin 4D is definitely taking a huge step forward for these types of camera systems in allowing cinematographers more freedom to capture shots that may normally have required much more specialized equipment. I had the pleasure of operating this gimbal recently, and will say I had so much fun with it and look forward to using it again!
*Buy the DJI Ronin 4D in Canada at Lumio Marketplace.
