Many people have started getting their hands on the first batch of Sony a7S III this week. Before this, Atomos has released new firmware for the Ninja V, their popular 5-inch external recording monitor, which now makes the Atomos Ninja V capable of handling the 16-bit raw output of the Sony a7S III.
The Ninja V can record 4K30p in Apple ProRes RAW for broad flexibility in postproduction. The recorder will convert the 16-bit linear raw output of the camera into 12-bit log files that are “visually indistinguishable” and have less demanding data rates. It can perfectly capture the a7S III’s 4K60p 10-bit ProRes 4:2:2 log video when there’s excessive raw output.
Users need to be aware of the firmware’s few limitations when it’s paired with the a7S III. According to Atomos, the “larger recordings on a 2 TB SSD may occasionally not playback correctly on the Ninja V”. However, it does not affect the recorded file.
Atomos also pointed out that the Ninja V may not begin recording again automatically after momentarily losing video signal lock because of a faulty cable connection. Another limitation, which may be the most relevant to users, is the unavailability of white balance and ISO adjustments in Final Cut Pro X for Apple ProRes RAW recordings. In their release notes. Atomos stated that this limitation would be addressed in future firmware updates for Ninja V and the a7S III camera body itself.
Users may now download the AtomOS 10.54 firmware update for the Atomos Ninja V on the company’s website. For more information, visit Atomos Ninja V’s compatibility page.