FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
- Cost-effective single-axis version of ARRI’s flagship Hi‑5 hand unit
- Third-party compatibility: “Any camera, any lens”
- The most robust and sophisticated single-axis unit on the market
- Upgradeable via software licenses to full Hi‑5 functionality
- Swappable radio modules for different setups and regions
June 7, 2024; Munich – ARRI introduces the single-axis Hi‑5 SX hand unit, joining the three-axis Hi‑5 at the forefront of wireless camera and lens control technology. Ready to perform a variety of single-axis tasks on set, the Hi‑5 SX can also be easily upgraded to higher functionality via optional software licenses. Weatherproof and exceptionally hard-wearing, it brings ARRI dependability to the control of almost any lens on any camera, at an attractive price point.
Sharing the Hi‑5 form factor, the Hi‑5 SX has a well-proven ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to hold and operate. The large display is easy to read, and the intuitive touchscreen interface is based on a camera GUI. Uniquely, ARRI offers swappable radio modules for the Hi‑5 and Hi‑5 SX, allowing crews to choose the most suitable module for any shooting location or to conform to different regional frequency regulations.
Upgradeability is at the core of the Hi‑5 SX concept. Compatible with all existing Hi‑5 licenses, such as the Cinefade, RED camera control, and Focusbug licenses, the unit can also be upgraded with two new software licenses that give users the freedom and flexibility to access the functions they need, when they need them.
Firstly, the Hi‑5 SX Plus License enables lens mapping, Custom Smart Ring creation, six additional user buttons, tail slate mode, and more. Secondly, the Hi‑5 SX All-Axis License enables simultaneous use of the knob, slider, and force-pad for three-axis lens control, as well as complete display information, AUX axis, and full virtual T-stop and focal length features. Once both licenses are installed the Hi‑5 SX becomes functionally indistinguishable from the Hi‑5; the blue SX joystick toggle can even be swapped for black. Users of the Hi‑5 SX with no additional licenses installed can choose between the knob, slider, or force-pad to control a single lens axis, whether focus, iris, or zoom.
The Hi‑5 SX allows 1st ACs to limit their initial investment in a hand unit and a single lens motor, while still giving them the peace of mind of pulling focus with the most sophisticated single-axis unit on the market, backed by the universally trusted ARRI brand. As their careers progress, they may choose to upgrade their Hi‑5 SX, offering productions more functionality and increasing their earning potential.
For well-established 1st ACs who already own a three-axis hand unit and several lens motors, the Hi‑5 SX lets them facilitate separate iris pulls operated by the cinematographer or DIT, using the most up-to-date technology. While for rental companies that have multiple hand units, the Hi‑5 SX provides a cost-neutral way to sell off older three-axis units that are often sent out for single-axis tasks and replace them with brand-new, state-of-the-art units.
With a ruggedized housing that is sealed, dustproof, and weatherproof, the Hi‑5 SX can be operated with complete reliability in harsh environmental conditions. ARRI-branded batteries based on the NP-L interface can be hot-swapped without powering the unit down, and their remaining capacity is indicated accurately on the display screen.
The new Hi‑5 SX will be available to order from July 1, 2024, and will begin shipping on October 1, 2024. It replaces the ARRI SXU-1 single-axis hand unit, which will be phased out.
Learn more at https://www.arri.com/Hi‑5sx
About ARRI:
“Inspiring images. Since 1917.” ARRI is a global player within the motion picture industry, employing around 1,600 staff worldwide. Named after its founders August Arnold and Robert Richter, ARRI was established in Munich, Germany, where the headquarters is still located today. Other subsidiaries are in Europe, North and South America, Asia, and Australia.
The ARRI Group consists of the business units Camera Systems, Lighting, Rental, and Solutions, as well as the subsidiary Claypaky, all dedicated to connecting creativity and future technologies for moving images and live entertainment. ARRI is a leading designer and manufacturer of camera and lighting systems for the film, broadcast, media, and entertainment industries, with a worldwide distribution and service network. The portfolio includes digital cameras, lenses, camera accessories, archive technologies, lamp heads, and lighting accessories. Along with offering exclusive technologies, ARRI Rental’s first-class services and equipment provide camera, lighting, and grip packages to professional productions around the world. ARRI Solutions offers high-quality virtual and traditional production infrastructure solutions and efficient, integrated workflows to a broad range of studio operators, producers, and enterprises. Claypaky fascinates audiences worldwide with cutting-edge live entertainment and stage lighting.
In recognition of its innovative contributions to the film and television industries, ARRI has been honored with 19 scientific and technical awards from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences and six Engineering Emmys from the Television Academy and the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
For locations and more information, please visit www.arri.com.