ARRI, the German elite manufacturer, needs no further introduction. Known for their high-end cine gear range of products, the company now features new rigging options for the recently announced Sony BURANO. The system includes various mounting options for almost anything that comes to mind. ARRI introduces clever, finely crafted mechanical solutions to challenges you might not have even considered.
Cross-system modularity
If you’re familiar with the ARRI ProCamera Accessories designed for the Sony VENICE and VENICE II, you’ll notice similarities with the ARRI Pro Camera Accessories for Sony BURANO, as both systems utilize some common components. The VENICE Base Plate 2 is reused, meaning that any equipment compatible with it will require no change at all. Bridge plate adapters, shoulder mounts, etc. are compatible across the system. The new BURANO rig allows the use of various handles and is compatible with the native BURANO handle. Since the Sony BURANO is compatible with the Sony FX9 handle (including electronic control over zoom and REC on/off), ARRI made the necessary modifications to enable the use of this one as well. The company went so far as to add a specific screw-driven spacer to maintain precise tension with both handles.
Four basic sets
Arri offers four sets, and these are merely a starting point for endless modification and modulation. There are the Broadcast Sets and the Cine Broadcast Sets, each in two flavors – Basic or Pro. Both Basic Sets consist of a top plate and a base plate. The Broadcast Set includes the Broadcast Shoulder Adapter (BSA-1) while the Cine Sets come with the Bridge Plate Adapter (BPA-5). Both Basic Sets also include a pair of 240mm/9.4in, Ø15mm Support Rods, a 15mm rode console, a plate for Sony VENICE 1/2, and a top plate.
The Pro Duo applies the same principle and includes additional features: a top handle, two front brackets, one rear side bracket with ample connection points, and NATO rails. There is also a NATO Rail Clamp (NRC-1) with a 15mm Reduction Insert to adapt the clamp’s 19mm to 15mm rods. A NATO Rail Adapter (NRC-2) allows the attachment of various video transmitters. Full specifications on all four sets can be found on ARRI’s website
An excellent camera just got better
The Sony BURANO is an excellent filming tool. As a scaled-down, compact, “compressed” version of the VENICE, it sometimes lacks the right amount of attachment ports, the flexibility needed for full personal customization, or the convenience of a proper shoulder mount. These four new sets from ARRI elevate an already great camera and provide it with additional robustness and flexibility. Meticulously crafted and extraordinarily built, full of clever design features such as stashed spare screws and additional cable hook mounting points, they’ll be a joy to use.
Price and availability
As of this writing, no specific kit prices have been announced. One can probably expect the BURANO kits to cost about as much as the VENICE kits, so about $2,200 for the Basic Cine kit, and up to around $3,500 for the Pro Broadcast kit. This is no more than an educated assumption though.
What do you think about the workflow options unlocked by the new ARRI rigs? Will you opt for these rigs on your next BURANO rental? Would you consider buying them? Let us know in the comments.
