Adds 6G-SDI Support to HyperDeck SSD, XML Templates to ATEM Switchers and Avid MC7 Roundtripping to DaVinci Resolve

Blackmagic Design today announced several key software upgrades to anchor products like DaVinci Resolve, HyperDeck Studio Pro, ATEM Production Switchers and the recently introduced ATEM Production Studio 4K live switcher, as well as a price reduction for the anticipated 2.5 K Cinema Camera. In a letter sent to customers this morning, Blackmagic Design founder and CEO Grant Petty cited the need to reduce camera build costs in order to "allow access to digital filming to a wide range of cinematographers and photographers." The new price for both the EF and MFT models is US$1,995.

Petty called the announcement "one of the proudest moments of my life," and went on to suggest that filmmakers might invest what they saved buying one of Blackmagic's cameras into superior lenses and other kit. Technically speaking, he added, "The advantage of the 2.5K sensor is it has enough resolution to eliminate the bayer resolution loss of a[n] HD sensor, but when shooting RAW it produces files that are not too big to sotre and work with easily." Petty said that all orders already placed but not yet filled would be honored at the new price. 

The company has begun shipping its even more affordable Pocket Camera, itself with several key updates that include one-touch focus when using an MFT lens. This feature will also be added to the 2.5K Cinema Camera, along with new de-bayer processing, in a software update "coming soon."

While Blackmagic's Production Camera 4K is close to shipping, Petty underscored the need for more time. "Our first batch of sensors was delivered only this week, so we have not been able to complete the software for the camera," he said in his letter. "We expect to start shipping in about 3 to 4 weeks."

Other software updates Petty announced included 6G-SDI output and Ethernet remote control support for HyperDeck Studio Pro; ATEM Switcher Software 4.1.1, which lets users to save the state of the switcher as an XML file; and Avid MC 7 roundtripping in DaVinci Resolve 9.1.5. The company has added 1080p progressive video formats to the ATEM Production Studio 4K, including 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 50 and 59.94fps, giving users infinite device input options.

Petty's biggest surprise came at the close of his letter with the introduction of Splice, a new online community in the Vimeo tradition where Blackmagic users can share their stories. Petty says the site will feature everything "from feature films, shorts, TVCs and documentaries" and highlight the work of DPs, colorists, editors, visual effects artists and post houses.