BLACKMAGIC FINALLY HAS A BOX CAMERA. THE PYXIS IS A MODULAR POWERHOUSE FOR MODERN FILMMAKING

Blackmagic Design has unveiled a brand new camera. The PYXIS stands as the latest frontier in the company's relentless pursuit of democratizing cinematic quality. Departing from the traditional form factors of their URSA Mini and Pocket Cinema Camera lines, the PYXIS introduces a highly modular, "box-style" design. This compact yet robust body, initially released with a full-frame 6K sensor, represents Blackmagic's vision for a highly customizable and networked cinema camera, perfect for the diverse demands of contemporary productions.

The PYXIS Sensor: Full-Frame 6K Versatility

At its core, the Blackmagic PYXIS features a full-frame 6K sensor (6048 x 4032 pixels). This large format sensor delivers:

• Immersive Full-Frame Aesthetics: The 36mm x 24mm sensor size allows for a shallower depth of field and wider field of view with full-frame lenses, creating a highly cinematic look, especially favored for dramatic storytelling.

  
  

• Flexible Resolution and Frame Rates: The 6K sensor can capture up to 36 fps at full 6K open gate (3:2), providing maximum flexibility for reframing in post. It also offers various high frame rate options, including up to 60 fps in 6K 2.4:1 and 4K DCI, and even up to 120 fps in 1080HD (when windowed). This makes it highly adaptable for projects requiring high-speed capture or various delivery formats, including vertical video for social media.

  
  

• Excellent Dynamic Range and Low Light: The PYXIS 6K boasts 13 stops of dynamic range and features dual native ISO up to 25,600. This ensures impressive image quality with rich detail in both highlights and shadows, and remarkably clean performance even in very low-light conditions, minimizing noise and preserving detail.

  
  

• Built-in Optical Low Pass Filter (OLPF): A notable inclusion, the custom-designed OLPF helps to eliminate moiré and aliasing artifacts often seen with high-resolution sensors, resulting in cleaner, more natural images.

Blackmagic RAW: The Unseen Power Behind the Pixels

As with all Blackmagic cinema cameras, the efficient and powerful Blackmagic RAW codec is fundamental to the PYXIS workflow. This codec is designed to handle the massive data from high-resolution sensors without compromising quality or stressing post-production pipelines:

• Lightweight Raw Performance: Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) delivers the benefits of raw recording (non-destructive metadata adjustments like ISO, white balance, tint, exposure) in highly compressed, manageable file sizes. This makes it practical to shoot in 6K without needing immense storage or super-computers for editing.

  
  

• Optimized Playback: BRAW is highly optimized for fast playback and editing in DaVinci Resolve (which comes free with the camera), ensuring a smooth workflow from capture to color grading.

  
  

• Proxy Recording: The PYXIS can simultaneously record high-bitrate Blackmagic RAW footage and lightweight H.264 proxy files. This is a game-changer for cloud-based workflows, remote editing, and quick client previews, streamlining the entire production pipeline.

Design, Ergonomics, and Connectivity: The Modular Advantage

The defining characteristic of the PYXIS is its new box-style form factor. Crafted from CNC-machined aeronautical-grade aluminum, this robust and compact body (approximately 3.3 lbs / 1.5 kg for the body only) is built for maximum riggability:

• Integrated Mounting Points: With multiple 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 mounting points on all sides, the PYXIS allows for unprecedented flexibility in attaching accessories, building custom rigs, and integrating into gimbals, drones, or studio setups without the need for additional cages.

  
  

• Interchangeable Lens Mounts: The PYXIS offers a choice of lens mounts at purchase: L-Mount, EF-Mount, or PL-Mount. This provides unparalleled compatibility with a vast array of photographic and cinema lenses, from modern full-frame optics to vintage glass and professional cinema primes. The L-Mount is particularly versatile, allowing adapters for a multitude of other lens systems.

  
  

• Advanced Connectivity for Modern Workflows: The PYXIS steps up its game with robust I/O for networked productions. It features dual CFexpress Type B card slots for internal recording and a high-speed USB-C port for direct recording to external SSDs. Crucially, it includes a 10Gb Ethernet port, enabling sophisticated remote control via Blackmagic's Camera Control REST API, live streaming, and seamless integration with Blackmagic Cloud for instant media syncing to DaVinci Resolve. It also boasts dual 12G-SDI outputs for uncompressed monitoring and signal distribution, along with mini XLR audio inputs with phantom power.

  
  

• Built-in 4-inch LCD & Optional Accessories: While compact, the PYXIS features a bright 4-inch 1500 nit LCD touchscreen for essential monitoring and menu control. Blackmagic also offers optional accessories like the PYXIS Pro Grip (with a secure hand strap and zoom rocker) and an OLED viewfinder to enhance usability for various shooting styles.

  
  

Target Audience and Industry Impact

The Blackmagic PYXIS is strategically positioned to appeal to a broad yet discerning professional audience:

• Independent Filmmakers: Its combination of full-frame 6K resolution, Blackmagic RAW workflow, and accessible price point offers immense production value for indie features and shorts.

  
  

• Commercial and Music Video Productions: The modularity, high resolution, and flexible frame rates make it ideal for dynamic, visually driven content that needs to adapt quickly to different setups.

  
  

• Virtual Production and VFX: The box-style design and advanced connectivity make it an excellent choice for LED volume stages, green screen compositing, and projects requiring precise metadata and clean images for visual effects.

  
  

• Live Broadcast and Multi-Camera Setups: The Ethernet control and dual SDI outputs make the PYXIS highly suitable for studio environments, multi-camera live events, and remote production workflows.

  
  

• Content Creators & YouTubers (High-End): For those seeking truly cinematic quality and advanced rigging options beyond traditional mirrorless cameras, the PYXIS offers a professional leap.

  
  

The Blackmagic PYXIS's introduction marks a significant evolution in Blackmagic's camera philosophy. By prioritizing a highly modular, connected, and full-frame platform at a disruptive price point, it empowers a new generation of filmmakers and studios. It reflects the increasing demand for versatile cameras that seamlessly integrate into complex, networked production environments, further solidifying Blackmagic Design's reputation for democratizing cutting-edge cinema technology. The PYXIS is not just a camera; it's a statement about the future of flexible, high-resolution content creation.