Cinedeck has released Version 2.0 for the Cinedeck Extreme. The Cinedeck records the output of a camera via HD-SDI or HDMI allowing the user to optimize the quality of the footage that is typically compressed by an in-camera codec. Version 2.0 now records in DNxHD for Avid, ProRes for Final Cut users, and CineForm Digital Intermediate. The optional Full Stream Uncompressed option allows the Cinedeck to record uncompressed 4:2:2 or uncompressed 4:4:4 in a QuickTime wrapper. Version 2.0 also provides full support for the EXsync timecode module, which allows the Cinedeck to be in sync with external devices and to sync multiple Cinedecks together.

…continue reading Cinedeck Extreme’s New V2.0 Upgrade

The Sound Devices 302 is a three-channel mixer that features a compact size and intuitive design. All the controls that are needed for operation are located on the front of the unit, making it easy to operate even when in a bag.

Layout on the front panel is built for quick operation. You should be aware that input two has a slide switch above it that reverses polarity. It is a common mistake to activate this thinking that it is a filter. When activated, the switch turns off input number two, so make sure to check this setting.

The audio quality of the 302 mixer is excellent. It packs a lot of features into a low profile unit that is rugged and lightweight. This time-tested mixer will provide years of reliable service in any configuration. Watch my video above to learn more.

Another compact-yet-powerful product from Sound Devices, the 702T is a two-track audio recorder with timecode. Weighing just under two pounds without a battery, it certainly fits the definition of a lightweight field recorder.

Sound Devices did a great job of putting a lot of info at your fingertips without overwhelming the front panel for the operator. The most important menu items – such as bit depth and sample rate – are located at the top of a 91-item list. As for timecode, the 702T incorporates the Ambient timecode module, which is highly accurate. It also comes equipped with wordclock in and out for syncing multiple sound units.

The 702T boasts all the features required for professional sound recording, while its size and ease of use make it ideal for ENG or doc style shooting. Watch the video above to get more detail on this compact and useful device.

A camera can only be as good as the recording made from it. In the past year or so we’ve seen some interesting new portable recording devices such as the AJA Ki Pro and the Convergent Design nanoFlash. Now comes the Cinedeck Extreme, which is not only an excellent recorder but also doubles as a full-featured on-camera monitor. The Cinedeck Extreme can input HD-SDI in 4:2:2 or 4:4:4, as well as HDMI, and record it to the wavelet-based Cineform codec. Coming soon (with a firmware upgrade) will be Avid DNxHD, as well as Uncompressed HD. That’s right — an Uncompressed 12-bit RGB HD recorder for under $12K that sits right on top of your camera. Recording media are consumer 2.5″ SSD drives designed for laptops.

The Cinedeck’s monitor offers functions such as waveform, vectorscope, false-color exposure meter, audio meters, pixel-to-pixel zoom for focus, grid and frameline overlays, etc. All this in a package about the same size of a standard on-board LCD.

Watch the video for more on the Cinedeck Extreme and to see it mounted to the new ARRI ALEXA Digital Cinema camera.