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First Look: ARRI AMIRA

Posted by Andrea Keating on October 3, 2013

ARRI recently announced their new versatile ENG/TV/documentary-style camera the AMIRA at IBC 2013.The AMIRA utilizes the same sensor as the ALEXA but housed within a smaller ergonomic footprint designed for those run-and-gun productions. Its rugged and reliable design quality is optimal for navigating those unpredictable terrains and withstanding adverse climate conditions ENG-style shooters normally experience.

The AMIRA’s Super 35mm sensor provides up to 14 stops of dynamic range. It records ProRes formats up to 4:4:4 HD and in 2K mode will allow frame rates up to 200fps. The built-in recording media is SanDisk’s new CFast 2.0 flash technology. Cfast 2.0 boast data transfer speeds of up to 450MB/s with a storage capacity up to 120GB’s. This is a great productivity enhancement for both on location and post production workflows.

AMIRA operators will have the capability to record REC 709 or Log-C modes and have 3D LUTS support as well. The design of the camera is built for mobility and single-operator usability. The AMIRA integrates motorized ND filters, zebra, and false color tools to assist with exposure control. The included advanced peaking function allows for fast and easy image stability great for capturing those clean action shots.

The camera features a new 1280 x 1024 OLED electronic view finder and a flip-out 3.2’ LCD display. Incorporating an EVF and LCD display on this camera gives a lot of workflow flexibility to the operators. ARRI kept the menu functionality identical to the ALEXA. So those operators familiar with the menu hierarchy of the ALEXA can just dive right in and feel at home.

Having easy accessibility to audio operations for ENG-style shooters is a key workflow function. The AMIRA can record four channels of 24-bit 48Hz audio and with access to 2 XLR 3-pin outputs, with microphone, line, phantom power, and AES3 support. The camera also incorporates one XLR 5-pin input giving operators additional mono/stereo mic, line, and phantom power support.

Which AMIRA features most intrigue you? Do you think this is a solid addition to the ARRI product line? Let’s talk about it! We will be sure to keep you updated as new developments surface. Be sure to visit the ARRI AMIRA microsite for more in-depth specifications and information.