Teased back in April, Atomos has officially announced ProRes RAW support for Sony's FX9, which received a significant firmware update that included a new 5K crop mode, Eye AF, and expanded ISO, among other features.

Shooters can now record up to 4K DCI 60p, or 2K up to 180p with the Atomos Shogun 7 when using the XDCA-FX9 Extension Unit. 

To record RAW, the XDCA-FX9 Extension Unit ($2,498) needs to be attached to the back of the FX9 first, and then you can send the RAW signal to the Shogun 7 via SDI.

Though the FX9 is capable of sending a 16-bit RAW signal, for now, Shogun 7 will convert it to 12-bit RAW. As pointed out by Atomos, the FX9 joins the FS7, FS7 II, FS5, and FS5 II, which can all record ProRes RAW with the Shogun 7. 

For the rollout, ProRes RAW metadata is included to allow Final Cut Pro X, Premiere Pro, and other non-linear editors to set up the display in either SDR or HDR projection.

Filmmakers are well aware of the advantages of RAW workflows when it comes to color grading, but when it comes to Sony's camcorders there's an added cost to consider. When you add up the price of the extension unit and then the Shogun 7, it's an extra $3,700 for 12-bit RAW.

Is it worth it? We'll let you decide. 

FX9SonyShogun 7Atomos
Cinematography & Cameras