Blackmagic PYXIS 6K: A Modular Box Camera for Custom Rigs

At NAB 2024, Blackmagic Design’s Bob Caniglia debuted the PYXIS 6K, a new box camera featuring a 6K full frame sensor, the same one found in their recently released Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K. The PYXIS 6K offers filmmakers the flexibility to rig the camera according to their specific needs.

Key Features

• 6K full frame sensor with 13 stops of dynamic range

• Dual native ISO from 100 to 25,600 (native at 400 and 3,200)

• 4-inch, 1,500-nit HDR onboard monitor for menu navigation and monitoring

• Versatile mounting options for accessories like the Blackmagic Cinema EVF

• 1G ethernet port and USB-C for fast file transfer and Blackmagic Cloud Service integration

• Three lens mount options: EF, L, and PL

Bob explained, "People have been asking for a box camera for a long time. And here it is. And I think that what we did here was really give you the flexibility to rig it out any way you want."

The PYXIS 6K records Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) and H.264 proxy files simultaneously to 2 CFexpress card slots, ensuring seamless recording even when one card fills up. Users can also record directly to USB-C drives using the included adapter panel.

Audio input options include a mini XLR port on the front and a 3.5mm mic input on the back, along with onboard microphones. The camera also supports SRT streaming, making it a versatile tool for both recording and live streaming applications.

"At a core, it's the same [as the Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K], but it's in this body that you can do whatever you want," Bob added, emphasizing the PYXIS 6K's modular design.

Pricing and Availability

The PYXIS 6K starts at $2,995 for each of the three lens mount options, with the Blackmagic Cinema EVF available as an optional accessory. As filmmakers begin to experiment with the camera's rigging possibilities, it will be interesting to see the creative setups that emerge.

Blackmagic Redefines Filmmaking with URSA Cine 12K Camera

Blackmagic has once again pushed the boundaries of cinematography with the introduction of their groundbreaking URSA Cine 12K camera. Built from the ground up, this camera incorporates a range of innovative features and capabilities that are set to revolutionize the filmmaking industry.

Key Features

• Fully articulating screen for enhanced flexibility

• 8TB and 16TB media modules for extensive recording time

• 10G ethernet port and WiFi connectivity for seamless data transfer

• Integration with Blackmagic Cloud for remote collaboration

• Focus station with AI lens calibration for precise control

• Redesigned URSA Cine viewfinder for improved ergonomics

Bob explained the thought process behind the camera's development: "We decided, what can we do to put everything we've always wanted in a camera, right? So really what we've done is created a camera from scratch, but it has a lot of the sort of feel for what the other cameras were but just some better components to it."

The URSA Cine 12K boasts a large format sensor with 16 stops of dynamic range, delivering unparalleled image quality. The camera supports EF, PL, and LPL mounts, providing compatibility with a wide range of lenses. Additionally, the sensor features an OLPF and built-in ND filters, offering filmmakers even greater control over their shots.

Pricing and Availability

The URSA Cine 12K is expected to roll out over the next month or two, with a price point of around $15,000 without the EVF and $16,000 to $17,000 with the EVF included. While this may be considered expensive for Blackmagic, it is a competitive price for a camera of this caliber.

Future Developments

Blackmagic also teased the upcoming 17K version of the URSA Cine, which will feature a 65-millimeter sensor. This demonstrates the company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of digital cinematography and providing filmmakers with the tools they need to bring their visions to life.

As the industry continues to evolve, Blackmagic remains at the forefront of innovation, delivering cutting-edge solutions that empower filmmakers to create stunning visuals and captivating stories.