The upcoming Sony BURANO Version 2.0 firmware update, due to drop in March, will include additional recording modes, added support for SDI output, proxy recording, and more.
Sony announced its BURANO firmware roadmap last June, but as ever these things are moveable feasts. Features get added, features get taken away, and we’re pleased to say that in this case it’s the latter scenario.
As previously announced, Version 2.0 will include new recording formats, including a new 3.8K Full Frame crop that leverages nearly the entire sensor and can shoot up to 120 fps and a 1.9K mode that can shoot up to 240 fps. These new recording modes allow the filmmaker to prioritize faster sensor performance depending on the needs of their application. Other new recording formats include the addition of 24.00 fps to X-OCN 16:9 imager modes and the following:
BURANO Version 2.0 will also add a 1.8x de-squeeze setting as well as additional high frame rate (S & Q) modes, including up to 66, 72, 75, 88, 90, 96, and 110 fps. It will also add proxy recording for 24.00 fps recording formats.
There’s more too. In addition to the new recording formats, Version 2.0 offers various monitoring and metadata improvements, including standardized SDI video output for monitoring across X-OCN and XAVC. It also adds breathing compensation and image stabilization metadata in X-OCN, time code and clip name metadata to SDI output.
Based on feedback from BURANO users, Version 2.0 will offer an improved on-screen display that places camera status information outside of the image and also includes View Finder Gamma Display Assist while using S-Log3 for monitoring.
Version 2.0 will add 24V output to the PL Mount Voltage menu. In addition, it adds compatibility with Focus/Iris/Zoom control for PL Mount lenses while using the BURANO’s optional GP-VR100 handgrip.
BURANO Version 2.0 will also include several image output improvements, including enhanced image output when using the preset S-Log3 look or 3D User LUTs. Additionally, Version 2.0 will enhance Auto Focus performance when recording with the following frame rates: 23.98, 24, 25, and 29.97.
There are additional exposure tools (High/Low Key) derived from the flagship VENICE camera system. It will also expand white balance memory presets from 3 to 8 and support Active/High Image Stabilization in Full-Frame crop 6K and Super 35 1.9K 16:9 imager modes.
In addition, BURANO Version 2.0 will improve ease of use functionality with the ability to format media from the status screen as well as set CAM ID and Reel Number, which is standard for documentary and reality TV applications.
Version 2.0 will change the factory default frequency setting from 59.94 to 23.98p and will add a setting to “reset to factory defaults” setting.
Finally, in what is developing into a very long list, BURANO Version 2.0 will add live event and multicam functionality, including variable ND control from RCPs, improved camera control from Camera Remote SDK, and tally control for devices connected via LAN.
The new BURANO Version 2.0 is planned to be released in March 2025.