Los Angeles, CA—DJI unveiled three new Ronin tools to help filmmakers and content creators more easily and intuitively bring their visions to life. The DJI RS 3 and DJI RS 3 Pro stabilizers boast improvements to the classic Ronin series. The DJI Transmission is the company’s first independent wireless video solution. It combines reception, monitoring, control and recording.
The Ronin product line is a key part of DJI, supporting content creators from hobbyists to professionals. Last October’s launch of the Ronin 4D furthered DJI’s presence in the professional filmmaking world. Whether it’s the new automated axis lock system, a third-gen RS stabilization algorithm that improves performance by 20%, or the one-tap calibration, the RS 3 and RS 3 Pro are optimized for user efficiency as well as reliability.
“The needs and requirements of the content community are extremely important to us,” said Paul Pan, senior product line manager at DJI. “Ever since the introduction of the first Ronin back in 2014, we’ve continually gained feedback from industry professionals on how we can enhance our products to cater to their evolving needs. Implementing this feedback, we’ve optimized the design, stabilization and gimbal control to create next-generation, highly effective and reliable stabilizers designed for unparalleled efficiency.
“Furthermore, we don’t just stop at stabilization. We understand the importance of video transmission and the various pain points faced in large, complex venues. Whether it’s dealing with range, lagging images or lost signals, the new DJI Transmission addresses these issues; it offers an incredible 20,000-foot on-ground transmission distance.”
DJI RS 3
The DJI RS 3 stabilizer incorporates new features to get filmmakers up and running more quickly. A redesigned axes-locking system automates the process. By turning on the gimbal, the automated axis locks release and unfold the gimbal; this enables operators to get started in seconds.
Moreover, tapping the power button once sends the device into sleep mode. There’s also no need for repetitive balancing with position memory via quick-release plates; they also enable fast mounting and balancing of the payload. Further, the addition of a Bluetooth shutter button supports automatic connection without having to connect a camera control cable.
In addition, users can operate the RS 3 while held in one hand, since it weighs 2.8 pounds. And its 6.6-pound tested payload capacity provides support for most mainstream devices.
It also features a third-generation RS stabilization algorithm for 20% improved performance over the RSC 2. As a result, the new unit is easier to operate while shooting at low angles, running or filming from a moving vehicle. Plus, for lenses with focal lengths up to 100mm, SuperSmooth mode also aids stabilization.
Further, the RS 3 is easier to configure with a new 1.8-inch OLED full-color touchscreen—with an increased 80% surface area. Furthermore, most gimbal setups are done directly without connecting to the mobile app.
Other features are redesigned UI and interface logic to put controls at a fingertip; a physical gimbal mode switch that operators can slide to alternate between pan follow, pan-and-tilt follow and FPV modes; and an upgraded battery grip for 12 hours of power. The RS 3 also supports PD fast charging at 18 watts. Users can charge the battery independently or during use, for nonstop operation.
RS 3 Kits
The DJI RS 3 sells in two configurations. The stand-alone DJI RS 3 retails for $549. It includes one gimbal, the BG21 grip, a USB-C charging cable, a lens-fastening support, an extended grip/tripod, quick-release plates, a multi-camera control cable and a screw kit.
The DJI RS 3 combo retails for $719; it adds a briefcase handle, focus motor, focus motor rod kit, focus gear strip, a second multi-camera control cable and a carrying case.
DJI RS 3 Pro
For higher-demand users, the RS 3 Pro is a more professional version. With its arms constructed from one uncut piece of carbon fiber, the RS 3 Pro is lighter and stronger than the jointed carbon fiber material used on previous stabilizers. They were also extended to allow for more balancing space for professional cameras.
In addition, DJI optimized its structure to keep its weight at 3.3 pounds along with a 10-pound tested payload capability. Of course, this stabilizer shares the automated axis locks, Bluetooth shutter button, 1.8-inch OLED touchscreen and gimbal mode switch of the RS 3.
What’s more, to better work with manual lenses, the RS 3 Pro carries Ronin 4D’s advanced LiDAR focusing technology. Consequently, it creates the new DJI LiDAR range finder (RS) that’s capable of projecting 43,200 ranging points within a 14-meter indoor area. A next-gen focus motor also provides torque 3x stronger with one-step mounting. As a result, users can autofocus manual lenses with no need for repetitive calibration.
Furthermore, the LiDAR range finder carries a DJI-developed chip identical to the one used in Ronin 4D and a built-in 30mm camera. This boosts the computing power of ActiveTrack by more than 60x, creating ActiveTrack Pro. With target identification and tracking more sensitive and accurate, the RS 3 Pro helps professional cameras to maintain a steady, clear shot in dynamic scenarios.
Also, with dual RSA/NATO and battery ports, the RS 3 Pro connects to various accessories. They include the new briefcase handle; twist grip dual handle; and tethered control handle.
Finally, the DJI RS SDK protocol enables third-party manufacturers and individual developers to create customized shooting solutions for the RS 3 Pro.
RS 3 Pro Kits
The RS 3 Pro stabilizer also comes in two purchase options. The stand-alone DJI RS 3 Pro retails for $869. It includes a gimbal, the BG30 grip, a USB-C charging cable, lens-fastening support (extended), an extended grip/tripod, quick-release plates, a briefcase handle, a multi-camera control cable, a screw kit and carrying case.
The DJI RS 3 Pro combo retails for $1,099. It bundles an extended quick-release plate, a phone holder, a focus motor, a focus motor rod kit, a focus gear strip, a Ronin image transmitter (previously known as the DJI RavenEye Image Transmission System), two hook-and-loop straps and additional cables.
DJI Transmission
The DJI Transmission is the company’s first independent wireless video solution. The system combines reception, monitoring, control and recording into one device. Moreover, O3 Pro transmission technology enables the transmission system to offer an a 20,000-foot on-ground transmission distance with end-to-end ultralow latency. This is a huge upgrade from traditional Wi-Fi transmission. Video is transmitted in 1080p/60fps and provides16-bit 48 kHz live audio monitoring.
Furthermore, to cope with the demands of complicated signal and structural environments, DJI added a DFS band on top of the traditional 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz settings. Subsequently, the device offers 23 channel options that provide crews with more compliant and interference-free transmission channels. Plus, a built-in frequency sweeper automatically scans the electromagnetic environment for the best wireless channel, instantly switching when needed. Users can also manually select an appropriate channel to avoid interference.
DJI’s 7-inch, 1500-nit high-bright remote monitor includes an integrated receiver, eliminating the need for video cables. The device supports one transmitter with multiple receivers, as well as two transmission modes to address different needs. In control mode, two receivers carry out monitoring at the same time; the gimbal and camera are also controlled remotely.
Conversely, for a large crew with units such as lighting, art department and props, broadcast mode is enabled on top of control mode. On large sets like reality shows, DJI Transmission can also work simultaneously with 10 or more transmitters sending signals to 10 devices.
Transmission Plus Control
In addition, the DJI Transmission acts as a control system. When used with the RS 3 Pro, it can work as a gimbal and camera controller, unlocking more functions and integrating the ground-based Ronin ecosystem.
And when combining it with the Ronin 4D hand grips, the operator of an RS 3 Pro stabilizer can control the gimbal, focus, exposure and start/stop a recording with both hands.
As well as giving simultaneous access to video time codes, the high-bright remote monitor allows for independent recording and playback of 1080p/60fps H.264 footage.
Finally, expanding on the Ronin ecosystem, the DJI Transmission works with the DJI Master Wheel and Force Pro. This gives operators a variety of ways to control camera movement.
DJI Transmission Pricing
DJI will release the DJI Transmission in September. The DJI Transmission combo will retail for $2,499. It will include a DJI video transmitter, the high-bright remote monitor, a remote monitor hood, an installation toolkit, a protector case, two WB37 intelligent batteries, the WB37 battery charging hub, as well as cables and battery adapters.
The company will also make the independent video transmitter and high-bright remote monitor available for separate purchase. They will retail for $1,099 and $1,699, respectively.
