ARRI is introducing a new entry-level model and a flexible licensing system to make its premium camera system, the ALEXA 35, more suitable for a wider range of users and more diverse production applications. The conventional ALEXA 35 has a wealth of software-based functions, and will be developed as the “ALEXA 35 Premium Model.” In addition to this premium model, a new, lower-priced “ALEXA 35 Base Model” will be added. The base model will have the necessary core feature set and can be upgraded with a temporary or permanent license.
Additionally, production costs can be further reduced by using the new Codex Compact Drive Express for ProRes recording.
Hardware-wise, apart from a blue jog wheel to help identify the base camera in rental houses, the ALEXA 35 base and premium models are identical. Both models feature the same S35 sensor, with the same industry-leading 17-stop dynamic range, REVEAL color science, and ARRI image quality.
ALEXA 35 Base Model Features
Key features of the ALEXA 35 base model include ProRes recording at frame rates up to 60fps in 4K 16:9 and other formats, support for ARRI look files (CDL and 3DLUT), high sensitivity mode up to EI 6400, and three independent 10-bit monitor outputs in SDR and HDR color spaces.
The features of the ALEXA 35 base model alone meet the shooting requirements of many current users, but ARRI’s new concept of optional feature licenses allows users to continue using this camera into the future by adding more advanced features whenever they need them.
Each of the five licenses can be installed for a period of seven days, 30 days, one year or permanently, allowing owner-operator users to activate licenses for short-term jobs, long-term projects or new career directions.
The ALEXA 35 base model will adapt to and grow with the user, allowing them to feel closer to ARRI’s image quality and supporting them as they step up their camera.
The breakdown of the five licenses is as follows:
- “120fps” achieves high frame rate
- “ARRIRAW” achieves uncompressed image quality
- “Open Gate/Anamorphic” that realizes 4.6K full sensor area and anamorphic mode
- “Pre-record” allows pre-recording with a buffer of up to 20 seconds before pressing the record button
- “Look” for built-in ARRI textures, ARRI look library, and custom color management
If you install all five licenses on the base model, it will become a model with full functionality equivalent to the premium model. The premium license, which bundles five licenses together at a great price, can be purchased as a time-limited or permanent license. If you purchase additional premium licenses on top of the base model, the price will be roughly the same as the ALEXA 35 Premium.
Licensing
Since the ALEXA Mini and AMIRA cameras, ARRI has offered feature licenses, but the company says it has significantly improved the ease of use of its online shop. New third-party backend providers have expanded the range of payment options, including PayPal, Google Pay, Alipay, Amazon Pay and many local currencies. Feature licenses can be purchased by productions as well as camera owners.
The ALEXA 35 base model is available in eight sets divided into three categories: the Base Entry Set, the Base Operator Set, and the Base Production Set, which are all great value sets that combine the best accessories for your needs. The Entry Set is the most affordable lightweight, ready-to-shoot camera package, making the ALEXA 35 the same price as the original ALEXA Mini.
The operator set is ideal for owner-operators and sports productions, while the production set, which includes accessories normally supplied by rental companies, is ideal for high-end drama and film shoots.
Coinciding with the release of the ALEXA 35 base model, Codex is announcing the new Compact Drive Express 1TB, which offers the same write speeds and frame rate range as the Compact Drive 1TB, but at a price that is about 40% cheaper. Recording ProRes only and identified by a white ring, the Compact Drive Express matches the ALEXA 35 base model. Select retail bundles will include the new card, making it even more affordable to buy and operate the camera.
The ALEXA 35 Base Model Set and Premium Model Set are already available to order, reflecting ARRI’s long-term commitment to the ALEXA 35 system platform, with future upgrades already planned.
