RED's compact 4K cinema camera featuring MYSTERIUM sensor, weighing 2.3 kg with REDCODE RAW recording and modular design for handheld and gimbal operation.
Technical Details
The Scarlet's MYSTERIUM sensor offers a native ISO of 800 and a dynamic range of 13.5 stops. The camera body (Brain) weighs 2.3 kg and measures 127 x 89 x 89 mm. Internal compression is in REDCODE RAW with selectable compression ratios from 3:1 to 18:1. Recording media include RED's proprietary RED-DRIVE SSDs or CompactFlash cards. The Scarlet-X variant expanded the frame rate to up to 120 fps at 2K resolution and offered improved low-light performance through optimized sensor technology.
History & Development
RED announced the Scarlet in 2008 as an affordable alternative to the RED ONE, but it was not delivered until 2010 after multiple design changes. Originally planned as a 3K camera for $3,000, it eventually appeared as a 4K system for $9,750. In 2012, the Scarlet-X followed with an improved sensor and higher frame rates. Production ended in 2016 in favor of the WEAPON and EPIC-W series, which are based on the DRAGON sensor.
Practical Use in Film
Peter Jackson used 48 Scarlet-X cameras for the High Frame Rate (HFR) shooting of "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" (2012). Its compact dimensions made it ideal for Steadicam operations and tight shooting situations. Typical workflows require intensive post-production, as R3D footage requires significant processing power for debayering and color correction. The modular connectors (LEMO, Fischer) allow for various configurations for handheld, gimbal, or tripod applications.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike the larger RED EPIC, the Scarlet offers limited frame rate options and fewer connectors at a lower cost. Direct competitors included the Blackmagic Cinema Camera 4K (2012) and Sony's FS700. Modern alternatives like the RED KOMODO (2020) offer comparable 4K resolution at significantly reduced costs and improved ergonomics. For budget productions with 4K requirements, the used Scarlet remains an option but requires expertise in handling RED's workflow pipeline.