LCD viewfinders to date have been relatively simple, fixed magnifiers that are basically loupes that magnify your DSLR's rear LCD screen. There's just one problem with using these solutions -- you have to be directly behind the camera at eye level to use them. To remedy this problem, Redrock Micro is today showing off their microEVF, a self-powered electronic viewfinder that uses a DSLR's HDMI output to feed the eyepiece image. It's flexible in the way that a real viewfinder is -- meaning, it tilts up and down, and generally allows you to use your DSLR much more like an actual videocamera.
The microEVF will cost $595, has a battery life of 15-20 hours, weighs 8 ounces, and claims a higher resolution than RED's $3,200 BOMB EVF, which is 720p. If that's true, this is an impressive EVF that will have a life beyond DSLRs. Availability date hasn't been announced; press release below.
Press Release
Redrock Micro Announces New “microEVF” electronic viewfinder for HDSLR Cameras
Ultra compact, Ultra high resolution EVF Sets Standard for Size, Performance, and Price
Hollywood, CA – Redrock Micro, the recognized leader in affordable professional-quality cinema accessories, today announced the new patent-pending Redrock microEVF electronic viewfinder for HDSLR cameras. This is the first electronic viewfinder designed from the ground up specifically for HDSLRs, emphasizing compact lightweight design, superior resolution, and incredible affordability.
The popularity of HDSLRs such as the Canon 5D MKII for video and motion photography has skyrocketed in recent years, but the camera body is not ideal for video. The first generation of solutions for monitoring currently available –attaching an optical viewfinder to the back of the camera’s LCD screen –severely limit placement of the viewfinder and camera body and eliminate possibility of using additional monitors for camera assistants or directors. The new Redrock microEVF is an external electronic viewfinder that connects to the camera body and can be placed anywhere for maximum comfort and stability, and can be part of a multi-monitoring solution. The microEVF uses a custom made state-of-the-art backlit LED fitted in an attractive, ergonomic housing.
Key features of the microEVF include:
- A full color HD viewfinder designed specifically for the compact, lightweight needs of HDSLR cameras. The microEVF weighs in at less than 8oz.
- Ultra-high resolution display that is higher resolution than the Canon EOS cameras’ rear LCD and even the Red BOMB EVF from Red Digital Cinema.
- LED backlight maintains bright crisp picture with minimal power consumption
- Electronic assist features that will be announced closer to production release
- Infinitely configurable mounting options to position the microEVF exactly where desired
- Self-contained battery and low power consumption for a full day’s continuous viewing
“We feel it’s time for a better approach to HDSLR camera monitoring,” said James Hurd, Chief Revolutionary for Redrock Micro. “The microEVF meets this need with an elegantly designed, compact solution that is not only affordable, but also sets a high standard for features and performance.”
The microEVF also compliments advanced camera crews by working alongside external monitors, such as a monitor for the assistant cameraman, or one for a director or video village. The microEVF is compatible with any HDSLR or video camera that provides HDMI output while recording. Cameras known to be compatible include the Canon 5D MKII, Canon 7D, Canon 60D, Canon T2i, Canon 1D MKIV, Nikon D3s, Nikon D300s.
Pricing and Availability
microEVF is amazingly priced at $595. Availability has not yet been announced. More information can be found at www.redrockmicro.com/evf
About Redrock Micro
Redrock Micro revolutionized independent film production in the early 2000s with the M2 Encore cinema lens adapter, and reinvented digital filmmaking in 2008 with HDSLR cinema rigs and accessories. Today, Redrock Micro continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning depth-of-field adapters, support rigs, focus controllers, and advanced cinema accessories. More information can always be found at redrockmicro.com.
[via PhotoCineNews and Planet5d]
