RED HELIUM 8K DSMC2 Cinema Camera
The RED HELIUM 8K is a 35.4 megapixels (8192 x 4320 effective pixels) Super 35 cinema camera — with 8192 x 4320 video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
RED HELIUM 8K DSMC2 Cinema Camera
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Camera Overview — RED HELIUM 8K
Key Features — RED HELIUM 8K
35.4MP Super 35 Sensor: Captures up to 8192 x 4320 at full resolution, delivering cinema-grade image detail suitable for large-format finishing and cropping flexibility in post.
REDCODE RAW Recording: Native RAW recording in RED's proprietary REDCODE format gives colorists maximum dynamic range and latitude in post-production.
High Frame Rate Options: Supports up to 300fps at reduced resolutions, with high-speed capture up to 60fps at 8K, enabling a range of slow-motion workflows.
ProRes & DNxHR Support: Records Apple ProRes and Avid DNxHR/HD at up to 4K, allowing on-set proxy or deliverable workflows without separate transcoding.
16-Bit Processing Pipeline: Internal 16-bit image processing with up to 12-bit recording preserves tonal gradations and shadow detail across the full ISO range.
PL Mount: Industry-standard PL mount provides compatibility with a broad range of professional cinema lenses from manufacturers such as ARRI, Cooke, and Zeiss.
Camera Specifications — RED HELIUM 8K
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Documentary, Video / Cinematography |
| Type | Other |
| Sensor | Super 35 |
| Resolution | 35.4 megapixels (8192 x 4320 effective pixels) |
| Processor | RED DSMC2 Image Processing Pipeline |
| ISO Range | 160 – 12800 |
| AF System | Manual Focus Only |
| AF Points | Manual focus only |
| Max Photo Resolution | 8192 x 4320 |
| Burst Rate | 60 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 8192 x 4320 |
| Max Frame Rate | Other |
Description — RED HELIUM 8K
The RED HELIUM 8K DSMC2 is a professional cinema camera centered on a Super 35 sensor with 35.4 megapixels of effective resolution, capturing at a maximum of 8192 x 4320. It records natively in REDCODE RAW, with additional support for Apple ProRes and Avid DNxHR/HD, both available at up to 4K. Video frame rates extend from 60fps up to 300fps, covering standard cinematic, broadcast overcranking, and high-speed applications.
Internal processing operates at 16-bit depth, with recording up to 12-bit. The ISO range spans 160 to 12800. Built from aluminum alloy as standard — with a carbon fiber body option available — the camera weighs 3.35 lb and measures 4.35 x 5.35 x 7.34 inches with a dust-resistant rating.
The PL mount accommodates professional cinema lenses, and storage is handled via RED MINI-MAG. Connectivity includes WiFi and USB, while HDMI, headphone, and microphone connections are accessible through an optional expander module. The camera is fully manual focus, with no autofocus or image stabilization system.
Pros — RED HELIUM 8K
- ✓35.4 megapixel Super 35 sensor captures at a maximum resolution of 8192 x 4320
- ✓High-speed video support up to 300fps, with intermediate options at 60, 75, 96, 120, 150, 200, and 240fps
- ✓Multiple codec options: REDCODE RAW, Apple ProRes, and Avid DNxHR/HD (ProRes and DNxHR/HD up to 4K)
Cons — RED HELIUM 8K
- ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus system of any kind
- ✗No in-body or digital image stabilization
- ✗Display, viewfinder, audio I/O, and HDMI all require additional accessory modules — not included in the body
Reviews — RED HELIUM 8K
- First Hands On With RED Weapon Helium 8K Camera
CineD · 2016-09-15 - Mark Toia shows just what a RED Helium 8K camera can do
Newsshooter · 2016-10-01 - RED Helium 8K Shatters Highest DxOMark Sensor Score by 10 Points
No Film School · 2017-01-11 - RED's 8K Helium Sensor Gets Highest DxOMark Score Ever
CineD · 2017-01-11 - My BEASTY Camera Setup 2018! RED HELIUM 8K
TheBuffNerds - SHOWDOWN: RED Helium 8K vs Canon C200
Crimson Engine
Videos — RED HELIUM 8K
RED Epic-W HELIUM 8K Camera - Overview & Setup Guide — CINEVO
Frequently Asked Questions — RED HELIUM 8K
What lenses are compatible with the RED HELIUM 8K DSMC2?+
The camera uses a PL mount, which is the standard mount for professional cinema lenses. The specifications list PL Mount as the only native lens mount option.
What codecs does the RED HELIUM 8K support for recording?+
The camera supports REDCODE RAW, Apple ProRes (up to 4K), and Avid DNxHR/HD (up to 4K). REDCODE RAW is the native format and supports the full 8K resolution.
Does the RED HELIUM 8K have a built-in monitor or viewfinder?+
No. Both the display and viewfinder are external, modular accessories. The specifications reference a RED Touch LCD (4.7 inches, 1280 x 720) and a RED Bomb EVF (1280 x 720, 60Hz refresh rate) as optional additions.
What storage media does this camera use?+
The RED HELIUM 8K records exclusively to RED MINI-MAG media. No other card formats are supported according to the specifications.
What power options are available for the RED HELIUM 8K?+
The camera accepts V-Mount or Gold Mount batteries via a module. Battery life varies by battery used; the specifications note approximately 1–2 hours with a 150Wh battery.
Does the camera have built-in audio inputs or HDMI output?+
These connections are available but require an expander module — they are not built into the camera body itself. Through the expander, the camera offers a 3.5mm headphone jack, 3.5mm microphone jack, and HDMI Type A output.