Film equipment manufacturer ARRI introduces the 660 frames-per-second ALEXA 35 Xtreme camera and a novel codec.
ARRI has just released the ALEXA 35 Xtreme, a new camera system that builds upon the success of the original ALEXA 35. This innovative camera system offers several key improvements in frame rates, dynamic range, codecs, pre-recording times, wireless connectivity, power efficiency, and accessory compatibility.
Frame Rates and Dynamic Range
The ALEXA 35 Xtreme supports extremely high frame rates, reaching up to 660 fps. Up to 330 fps, it maintains the full 17 stops of dynamic range. Utilising a new Sensor Overdrive mode, it achieves up to 660 fps with a reduced dynamic range of 11 stops [1][3]. At higher resolutions, such as 4.6K Open Gate (3:2 aspect ratio), it can shoot at 120 fps using CODEX Compact Drives, and in 3.8K 2.39:1 aspect ratio at up to 240 fps with ARRICORE and ProRes codecs [3].
Codec Improvements
The ALEXA 35 Xtreme introduces a new next-generation codec named ARRICORE, which is exclusive to this camera system. ARRICORE offers high image quality and post-production flexibility at noticeably lower data rates compared to ARRIRAW [1][3]. This codec supports more efficient recording workflows by reducing bandwidth requirements without sacrificing image quality [1][2].
Pre-Recording Times
The onboard memory increase allows a fivefold extension of pre-record buffer duration. Specifically, up to 30 seconds of pre-roll at 24 fps in Apple ProRes 4444 (4.6K Open Gate) and up to five minutes at 24 fps in HD ProRes 422 HQ [2][4]. ARRI claims these are the longest pre-record times available on any digital cinema camera, enhancing usability especially for documentary, wildlife, or unpredictable shooting scenarios [2][4].
Wireless Connectivity
Wi-Fi capabilities are significantly improved, now supporting the 5 GHz band which improves range and stability. Includes Wi-Fi mesh roaming and automatic reconnection to known networks, improving connection reliability on wireless-heavy sets or live production environments [2].
Power Efficiency
Despite the enhanced performance, the ALEXA 35 Xtreme consumes about 10% less power than its predecessor due to more efficient processing and memory boards, aiding longer battery life and reduced thermal output [2].
Compatibility with ARRI Ecosystem
The camera maintains the same physical design, connector layout, and mechanical interfaces as the original ALEXA 35. This ensures full compatibility with all ARRI system accessories including lens mounts, handles, cages, Audio Extension Module AEM-1, Power Distribution Module PDM-1, Hi-5 wireless controller, Live Production System LPS-1, and CODEX Compact Drives (1 TB, 2 TB, Express 1 TB) [2].
In addition, the switching process with the ARRICORE RGB codec is simplified as the ARRI Look File ALF4, ARRI Textures, metadata, MXF wrapper, and audio will behave in a familiar way.
In summary, the ALEXA 35 Xtreme significantly advances ARRI's industry-leading digital cinema platform by offering much higher frame rates paired with impressive dynamic range, a new efficient ARRICORE codec, unparalleled pre-recording buffer lengths, enhanced wireless features, lower power consumption, and seamless integration with existing ARRI accessories [1][2][3][4].
[1] ARRI. (2023). ALEXA 35 Xtreme. Retrieved from https://www.arri.com/products/cameras/alexa-35-xtreme
[2] ARRI. (2023). ALEXA 35 Xtreme Press Release. Retrieved from https://www.arri.com/news/press-releases/alexa-35-xtreme-press-release
[3] ARRI. (2023). ARRICORE RGB Codec. Retrieved from https://www.arri.com/products/codecs/arricore-rgb-codec
[4] ARRI. (2023). ALEXA 35 Xtreme Technical Data. Retrieved from https://www.arri.com/products/cameras/alexa-35-xtreme/technical-data
- The ALEXA 35 Xtreme, being a gadget equipped with technology, not only increases the frame rates and dynamic range, but also offers an impressive 30 seconds of pre-roll at 24 fps in Apple ProRes 4444, thanks to its improved pre-recording times.
- This new camera system, a gadget powered by technology, introduces the ARRICORE codec, a next-generation innovation that offers high image quality and post-production flexibility at lower data rates compared to ARRIRAW, aiding more efficient recording workflows.
