ARRI’s new ALEXA 35 Xtreme achieves higher frame rates with longer pre-record times and improved WiFi capabilities. It also uses ARRICORE, a new RGB codec that reduces data rates.
ARRI is launching a new camera to revise and replace the ALEXA 35. The new ALEXA 35 Xtreme is a major upgrade that achieves higher frame rates with longer pre-recording times, improves on the ALEXA 35’s WiFi capabilities and uses less power. It also uses a new RGB codec, ARRICORE, that reduces data rates. ALEXA 35 Xtreme is available as a new model or as an upgrade to existing ALEXA 35 cameras.
Recording at frame rates of up to 660 fps, the ALEXA 35 Xtreme can help avoid the need to bring a secondary high-speed camera on most shoots, keeping production workflows simpler and saving time and money. It also helps users ensure that high-speed footage matches standard-speed shots in post-production and is achieved through the development of a new main processor, equipped with more and faster on-board memory. Frame rates up to 330 fps retain the camera's full 17 stops of dynamic range and, by using a new Sensor Overdrive mode, users can record at up to 660 fps with a dynamic range of 11 stops.
New RGB Codec ARRICORE
The ALEXA 35 Xtreme uses ARRICORE, ARRI's new RGB codec designed to preserve the camera's high image quality at a more accessible cost by reducing data rates. At the same time, since sensitivity, white balance and tint are not baked in, users keep their options open at the post production end. Switching to ARRICORE is also eased because, on-set and in post, workflows are consistent with existing ALEXA 35 codecs and drives.
The ARRI Look File ALF4, ARRI Textures, metadata, the MXF wrapper and audio will behave in a familiar way as well. ARRICORE is launching in beta now to proactively encourage faster, targeted development of its capabilities through direct feedback from users. Most third-party tools that already support the current ALEXA 35 codecs will also support ARRICORE.
Extended Pre-record Times
Pre-recording times are now five times longer with the ALEXA 35 Xtreme, which will simplify high-speed capture for everyone and is essential to documentary filmmakers. The ALEXA 35 Xtreme pre-recording time is 30 seconds when shooting 24 fps Apple ProRes 4444 in the highest resolution (4.6K Open Gate), or a full five minutes when shooting 24 fps Apple ProRes 422 HQ in HD. ARRI notes that these are among the longest pre-recording times available in any cinema camera.
Other features built into the camera include power savings over the ALEXA 35, as well as better wireless connectivity to accessories and tools like the ARRI Camera Companion App for remote camera control, through compatibility with the WiFi 5 GHz band. Improved connectivity also results in better WiFi roaming in a mesh network, and auto-reconnect to previously known networks.
Accessories Compatibility
Since the camera retains its compact housing, as well as all connectors and mechanical interfaces, it remains compatible with ARRI's system of electronic and mechanical accessories. This includes lens mounts, brackets, handles, the Audio Extension Module AEM-1, Power Distribution Module PDM-1, Hi-5, and Live Production System LPS-1. It also works with the CODEX Compact Drive 2TB, 1TB and Express 1TB.
The ALEXA 35 Xtreme will be available in sets that include either a Base license or a Premium license. Existing feature licenses for the ALEXA 35 Base can also be applied to the ALEXA 35 Xtreme Base, adding functionality on a weekly, monthly, yearly or permanent basis. The pricing for ALEXA 35 Xtreme sets and licenses will match current ALEXA 35 prices.
To protect customer investment, ARRI will upgrade any ALEXA 35 Base, ALEXA 35 Premium or ALEXA 35 Live camera to an ALEXA 35 Xtreme for €15,900. The upgrade can be carried out at selected ARRI Service Centers and will retain any installed licenses. ALEXA 35 Xtreme cameras and upgrades will be available from August 2025. www.arri.com
