RED details EPIC X bundle, prices Scarlet 8X kit

Camera-maker RED has detailed the specifications of its upcoming EPIC X bundle, and outlined pricing information for the basic Scarlet kit with an 8X optical lens. The EPIC X package, built on the 30mm by 15mm S35 sensor, will include a CF recording module, I/O module and battery module, bundled in a package that carries the same $28800 price tag as the sensor alone. As a bonus, the X package data-rates will be higher than the individually-purchased EPIC S35, featuring REDCODE 250 instead of REDCODE 225.

The Scarlet 2/3-inch camera kit with a fixed 8X lens will cost $3000 for the Brain and lens, or $3750 for the complete kit. The 2/3-inch body will enter the market with a price of $2500. The most expensive Scarlet Brain, with the FF35 Mysterium Monstro sensor, has dropped in price by over $2000, falling from $12000 to $9750. The version with an S35 sensor will cost $7000.

In an attempt to adhere to the "Obsolescence Obsolete" slogan, CEO Jim Jannard outlined several upgrade options for owners of RED ONE. The company will offer the original purchase price, $17500, as a trade-in credit toward the EPIC X package or the EPIC FF35, 645 Pro, and 617 Pro Brains.

The latest sensors will further expand the greater-than-HD capabilities of RED products, with scaling options ranging from 3K to an astounding 28K. The RED ONE module currently offers resolution up to 4K, although sensor upgrades will be available in the near future to bridge the gap.

The Scarlet 2/3-inch and S35 bodies are estimated to begin shipping in late summer 2009, while the 8X lens kit will arrive in the fall, and the FF35 body will trail the group with a release likely to come in the winter.

The EPIC X bundle will ship to RED ONE customers first, beginning in the summer or fall of 2009. The EPIC FF35 will have to wait until winter, while the 645 Pro and 617 Pro variants are not expected until spring 2010.