A new software upgrade for ARRI’s documentary-style AMIRA camera will allow it to record ProRes UHD files. The upgrade is expected to be available for purchase by the end of 2014.
AMIRA will now offer the ability to record all ProRes codecs in UHD 3840×2160 resolution directly onto the in-camera CFast 2.0 cards, at up to 60fps. This feature, activated through a software license (and a sensor calibration for existing AMIRAs), comes in response to feedback from AMIRA customers, keen to ensure programmes are suitable for UHD transmission in the future.
Whether a production requires a UHD workflow all the way through to distribution, or wishes to archive in UHD, AMIRA now offers a solution that requires no additional processes in post production.
AMIRA’s UHD output utilises the same 1.2x up-sample filter that allows ALEXA’s Open Gate mode to optimise the camera’s image performance for 4K distribution, as well as the same sensor pixels. The up-sample to UHD happens in camera, and in realtime.
“Feedback about AMIRA from all over the world has been overwhelmingly positive and it is clear that the camera is already a great success, being used on an amazing variety of challenging productions,” said Markus Duerr, ARRI’s product manager for the AMIRA system. “Already acclaimed for its phenomenal image quality, ease of use and versatility, the new ProRes UHD output will take these benefits even further, adding value for customers in areas like China, where 4K is a major focus of industry attention.”
