SmallHD has announced the launch of its new Ultra 7 monitor, an advanced upgrade from the widely acclaimed 703 UltraBright. Priced at $2999 USD, the Ultra 7 boasts improved processing power, enhanced features, a robust housing, and new accessories.
Designed for professional use, this monitor’s high cost reflects its superior PageOS, accurate color representation, and quality construction, which are hallmarks of SmallHD monitors.
Comparing Ultra 7 with Other Models
The Ultra 7 bears resemblance to its smaller counterpart, the Ultra 5, which was revealed at IBC 2022. It forms a part of SmallHD’s Smart 5 Series, including the Ultra 5, Cine 5, and Indie 5 touchscreen displays, along with two wireless versions of the Ultra 5. Professionals utilizing larger cinema cameras often prefer the 7″ monitor like the Ultra 7 over the more compact 5″ models.
Key Features of the Ultra 7
- 7″ 1920 x 1080 Touchscreen Display
- Inputs/Outputs: 6G-SDI & HDMI
- Brightness: 2300 cd/m² LCD Panel
- Control: 5-Pin USB & Ethernet
- User Interface: PageOS 5
- Additional: SD Card Slot, IP53 Rating, Onboard Button Controls
- Housing: Milled Aluminum Unibody
- Special Features: Daylight-viewable touchscreen, slim and lightweight design
Durability and Build
The Ultra 7 is constructed with shock-absorbing bumpers and a raised edge to protect the screen from accidental drops and face-down placement. It features water resistance (not waterproof) and can operate in temperatures ranging from 0ºC to 40ºC. The monitor is rated IP53 for dust and water resistance, which is an upgrade from the Ultra 5’s lack of IP rating.
Display and Performance
The Ultra 7’s 7″ display offers 2300 cd/m² brightness, slightly lower than the Ultra 5’s 3000 cd/m² but still brighter than the 703 UltraBright’s 2200 nits. It supports a contrast ratio of 1000:1 and covers 95% of the DCI-P3 and 98% of the REC 709 color spaces. The display uses a 10-bit (8+2 FRC) panel to simulate a true 10-bit color depth.
Connectivity and Functionality
- Various Inputs/Outputs: BNC 6G-SDI, HDMI, LEMO, and RJ45
- Headphone Output
- 3D LUTs can be uploaded via SD card slot
- Multi-View support for simultaneous camera feeds
- Dimensions and Weight: 8.2 x 5.1 x 1.36 inches, 2.0 lb (900 g)
Power Options and Mounting Flexibility
The Ultra 7 is powered through 2-pin LEMO ports and is compatible with Gold/V-mount micro battery plates. It offers diverse mounting options with four 1/4″-20 mounting threads.
Advanced Display Tools
The SmallHD PageOS provides a comprehensive suite of tools including pixel zoom, customizable aspect ratios, anamorphic de-squeeze, image rotation, cross conversion, color focus assist, peaking, false color, waveform, vectorscope, histogram, and audio meters. It also supports custom LUTs and features the EL Zone exposure assist tool developed by cinematographer Ed Lachman, ASC.
Additional Accessories and Teradek Bolt 6 Integration
An optional Ultra 7 Sunhood is available for $199 USD, featuring a tool-free, magnetic mounting design. The Ultra 7 also offers integration with the Teradek Bolt 6 for enhanced transmission capabilities, utilizing the 6GHz spectrum with a range of up to 1500′. The Ultra 7 with Bolt 6 integration is expected to be released in early 2024.
News source: https://smallhd.com/
