DJI Ronin 4D Video Transmitter

Product Information

DJI Ronin 4D offers three focusing modes to suit the needs of every creator: manual focus, autofocus, and DJI’s unique Automated Manual Focus (AMF). In manual focus, DJI Ronin 4D provides LiDAR Waveform, an assistive tool that allows cinematographers to locate focus points and pull focus with extreme precision. Autofocus keeps a sharp focus on the subject in more dynamic and unpredictable situations like documentary filmmaking. Automated Manual Focus combines the best of both modes to automatically rotate the focus wheel while following the focus point, allowing the operator to intervene manually at any time for an intuitive experience.

I know this camera isn’t going to be for everyone and isn’t designed to be, but I think it means something when I say that I wish everyone could try it out at some point because they will enjoy it for what it manages to accomplish. It did seem like a step forward in terms of the various autofocusing systems that are out there, and it’s almost certainly something that you’re going to rely on if you’re operating without a dedicated focus-puller. Especially if your manual focusing skills are as average as mine. But we’re still not in a world where professional DOP’s are going to trust an electronic system for focus. The reason being, any drop in focus on a big production could cost you a lot of money and annoy a lot of the cast and crew. Use the provided USB-A to USB-C data cable to connect the USB-C port above the storage card slot of the main body with a computer. Then, Launch DJI Assistant 2 (Ronin Series). Ronin 4D supports reading and display of up to 16 LUT files. Tap Exit to exit LUT settings. The custom LUT files have been imported to LOOK. Tap LOOK and select the LUT file you need. DJI empowers creators with accessible and intuitive devices to capture and share the world exactly how they see it,” said Paul Pan, DJI Senior Product Line Manager. “With DJI Ronin 4D, we use the power of technology to make cinema-standard production more affordable, cinema cameras more flexible, and cinematic imaging available to a boundless array of filmmakers. DJI Ronin 4D draws on our expertise in both aerial and ground-based cinematic innovations to enable the next generation of professional content creators to amaze and inspire us.”

Build Quality and Design

In addition, X9 is equipped with an interchangeable lens mount design allowing connection to DJI’s proprietary DL mount, Leica M mount, and other mounts with short-flange focal distances. This provides cinematographers the opportunity to use ultra-large aperture lenses, anamorphic lenses, and vintage manual lenses, creating their desired style. DJI Ronin 4D and all accessories need to be activated via DJI Assistant 2 (Ronin Series). Before activating, make sure all devices that need activation have been mounted to DJI Ronin 4D, or it may not work properly due to inactivation of certain parts. Activation steps:

DJI Ronin 4D has been designed with an innovative industry-first active Z-axis to eliminate vertical camera shake effectively. This technology allows the operator to shoot while walking, running, or moving around dynamically, with no need to practice pacing or rely on external equipment. Videos taken in complex spaces like stairways or uneven ground are smooth without any trace of the operator’s footsteps. DJI Ronin 4D even captures wide sliding shots easily, without the need for a dolly.Here, things are different. There’s the option of a 6K or 8K full-frame sensor. My preference is the 6K one for a few reasons; better low light performance, smaller, more manageable file sizes, and cost. Complementing the imaging system is a brand-new, full-frame Zenmuse X9 gimbal camera – available in 8K and 6K versions – that allows cinematographers to capture footage in full cinematic quality. In addition to the commonly used H.264 codec, both X9-8K and X9-6K can internally record Apple ProRes and ProRes RAW, leaving more latitude for editing in post. Zenmuse X9-6K supports up to 6K/60fps and 4K/120fps, and Zenmuse X9-8K up to 8K/75fps, giving creators multiple options for capturing cinema-quality footage. Using DJI’s all-new O3 Pro transmission technology, the 4D Video Transmitter outputs a 1080p/60fps feed to remote monitors with a transmission range of up to nearly 20,000 feet. It also includes AES 256-bit encryption that protects the video feed and industry-leading end-to-end low latency for a smooth, real-time monitoring experience as operators move freely about the set.

The mount lets you attach some of your preferred lenses of choice (it's compatible with ones for DJI's DL Mount, Leica's M Mount and Sony's E-Mount), and there's the ability to record in Apple’s ProRes codec internally, including ProRes RAW. This gives filmmakers far more scope for image manipulation in post-production than other DJI cameras. Other points to highlight are all to be expected at this level. The Dual ISO, 14 stops of dynamic range, and built-in ND filters are always welcome – some comparable systems have this, some don’t. There’s no meaningful sound inputs on the camera body itself (it has a built-in mic, but this will only ever be useful for reference audio). However, you can add XLR connections with an expansion plate. Something that self-shooters will have to do. A leap forward Before using the USB-C SSD to record, make sure you have formatted it on DJI Ronin 4D. If the SSD is already storing many files written by other devices, the write performance may decrease significantly as affected by wear leveling and garbage collection algorithms of the SSD.

A Stunning Display of Technological Craftsmanship

The touchscreen responsiveness was on point, even with gloves. I did some shooting with the Ronin 4D when the temperature was in the 20-degree Fahrenheit range and didn’t see any ghosting issues or sluggish behavior. Video Quality Log in with your DJI account. Select Ronin 4D in DJI Assistant 2 (Ronin Series), and follow the steps to activate. During the activation, do not power off or disconnect the devices. Measured with a fully charged TB50 battery in a 26° C (78° F) environment with the gimbal balanced, equipment in a level and stationary state, the Z-Axis disabled, and continuously recording in RAW. Operating time will be reduced when Ronin 4D is in motion or the Z-Axis is enabled. Measured with video transmission control system operating in Control mode in an unobstructed environment free of interference with FCC compliance.