Let’s take a look at the new features in detail.
Higher Maximum Frame Rates
With the optional High Frame Rate License, firmware 6.0 allows you to shoot at up to 72 fps in both the 5.7K 16:9 and 4K 6:5 imager modes. Additionally, project frame rates of 47, 50 and 59 fps have been added to both modes. The 3.8K 16:9 (UHD) imager mode now tops out at 110 fps.
Advanced Rendering Transform
A new look file format—an “.art” file—has been added to the camera system to get around the limitations of traditional 3D LUT .cube files. The new transform engine controls aspects of the cameras hardware color processing directly, promising less “banding,” or visible separation of color tones as compared to using standard 3D LUTs. The new format should be particularly useful for monitoring in HDR signal formats (such as HDR10 and HLG) directly from the camera. However, if you have a favorite LUT that you rely on for use with VENICE, you can convert it to an .art file using Sony RAW Viewer v3.5 or later.
Additionally, User 3D LUTs can now be applied to the viewfinder output in the same way they have been able to be applied to SDI outputs 3 & 4.
New User Frame Lines
User Frame Lines have received an update to allow for easier customization and now can serve as custom aspect ratio markers. Also, distinct 1:1 and 9:16 aspect ratio are now present as presets for social media or vertical video shooting.
Other New Additions and Fixes
- SDI Level A or B for 3G SDI output can now be selected for SDI outputs 1-4
- A Flicker Reduction feature has been added for shooting under conditions that might cause flicker (selectable between 50/60Hz)
- Run/stop and alert ‘beep’ sounds can now have their volume adjusted independently
- Genlock and external timecode status can now optionally be displayed in the viewfinder as well as the SDI Monitor out and sub display on the camera’s right side
- A comprehensive status display, similar to that shown on the sub display on the camera, is now available via the web remote control screen
- Camera orientation (tilt angle and roll angle) are now recorded as metadata, and XD (eXtended Data) for zoom lenses can be updated
- Camera ID and Reel Number settings will now persist even when an ALL file is applied
- Anamorphic de-squeeze can now be assigned to an ITEM key or user button, as well as aspect ratio and User Frame Lines
- CALL is now displayed in the viewfinder and sub display when a remote CALL command is received by the camera from a remote controller
Availability
The new firmware is now hosted on www.sony.com/VENICE.
