The Freefly Systems Ember S5K is a cutting-edge, high-speed camera tailored for professional cinematographers who require detailed and high-quality slow-motion footage.
This camera is engineered with a suite of features that cater to the demanding needs of high-speed cinematography, offering both versatility and performance in a compact package.
Technical Specifications:
- Resolution and Frame Rate: Capable of recording at 5K (5120 x 4096) at 600 fps and 4K (4096 x 2160) at up to 800 fps. These high frame rates are pivotal for detailed slow-motion analysis and creative cinematography.
- Sensor and Image Quality: The camera utilizes a Super 35 Gpixel sensor, which is adept at capturing high-resolution images. This sensor size strikes a balance between depth of field and image quality, making it suitable for a range of cinematographic applications.
- Compact and Durable Design: The Ember S5K is designed as a compact 100mm cube, weighing approximately 820 grams, which makes it versatile for use in different filming conditions, including aerial cinematography via drones.
- Internal Storage: It comes with a 4TB NVMe SSD internal storage, allowing for significant video capture without the immediate need for offloading, which is beneficial for extended shooting sessions.
- Video Formats: The camera records in Apple ProRes format, which is widely recognized for its efficiency in balancing image quality and file size, thereby facilitating easier editing workflows.
- Connectivity and Control: It offers an HDMI output for monitoring and USB-C for data transfer. Control is further enhanced with an iOS app, allowing for convenient remote operation.
- Power Consumption: The camera has a power draw of a maximum of 40W during recording and can be powered through a 4-pin Molex Microfit connector.
Comparative Analysis:
When compared to its competitors like the Phantom Flex4K, RED Komodo 6K, and Sony FX9, the Freefly Systems Ember S5K holds its ground primarily due to its high frame rates and compact design.
- The Phantom Flex4K excels in higher frame rates but is generally bulkier and more expensive, making the Ember S5K a more accessible option for certain professional settings.
Phantom Flex4K - The RED Komodo 6K offers higher resolution but is not primarily focused on high-speed recording. It is more versatile for general cinematography
RED Komodo 6K - The Sony FX9 provides excellent low-light performance and a full-frame sensor, but it doesn’t match the high-speed capabilities of the Ember S5K.
Sony FX9
The Freefly Systems Ember S5K stands out in the high-speed camera market for its combination of high frame rates, compact design, and high-quality image capture. It’s particularly suitable for professional cinematographers and videographers who need detailed slow-motion footage without the bulk and cost of larger high-speed cameras. Its ease of use, coupled with internal storage and efficient video formats, makes it a practical choice for a variety of filming applications.
