Full Breakdown
Sony Unveils RIALTO 65: A 65 mm Sensor Extension for the VENICE 2 System
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In this breakdown
01
Core Announcement
Sony has introduced the RIALTO 65 Camera Extension System, a sensor module that converts the VENICE 2 cinema camera into a 65 mm format camera. The system is slated to ship in the first half of 2027 with a suggested retail price of $80,000 USD.
02
Background & Context
The VENICE 2 was designed for modular upgrades. Sony first revealed the RIALTO 65 concept in June at CineGear. Competing large-format solutions, such as ARRI’s ALEXA 65, dominate the market; Sony’s offering uses a taller 1.5:1 aspect ratio, providing flexibility for anamorphic capture and reframing.
Visual evidence
Images from the story
03
Technical Specifications
- Sensor size: 53.75 mm × 35.83 mm (? 64.6 mm diagonal), about 2.2 × the area of a 35 mm full-frame sensor.
- Resolution & readout modes: 9.6K Open Gate (1.5:1) using the full sensor, plus 9.6K 2.20:1, 9.6K 3:2; future firmware will add 9.6K 17:9, 6.4K 3:2 and 4.3K 17:9.
- Dynamic range: Dual base ISO 2,500 and 10,000, with more than 15 stops at ISO 2,500.
- Recording: 16-bit X-OCN internally on the VENICE 2 body, preserving CineAlta color science (S-Log3, S-Gamut3).
- Form factor: Head measures roughly 115 mm × 154 mm × 63 mm and weighs about 1.5 kg (3.3 lb).
- Mounting: “Extension Mode” links the head via a detachable cable (standard 4.5 m, optional 12 m); “Studio Mode” attaches the head directly.
- Lens interface: No built-in mount; compatible with third-party adapters that transmit lens metadata.
- ND filters: Integrated drop-in kit with 11 densities (Clear to 3.0 ND); filters are not sold separately.
- Controls: Two assignable buttons on the head and electronic ND-filter density readout by the VENICE 2 body.
04
Official Statements & Responses
Sony highlighted that the extension retains the VENICE 2’s media (AXS cards) and workflow, allowing rental houses to upgrade without a new camera body. The system will support the same color science and internal recording formats as the VENICE 2.
05
Data & Statistics Summary
- Price: $80,000 USD (tentative).
- Availability: First half of 2027 (tentative).
- Cable options: Standard 4.5 m; optional 12 m.
- ND filter kit: 11 densities, sold only as a complete set.
- Maximum frame rates: 9.6K 3:2 up to 24 fps; 9.6K 2.20:1 up to 29.97 fps (with 24, 25, 50 fps options).
06
Impact on Large-Format Filmmaking
Attaching a 65 mm sensor to the VENICE 2 gives cinematographers medium-format aesthetics—shallow depth of field and pronounced subject separation—while keeping the VENICE 2’s ergonomics and workflow. The taller aspect ratio expands framing choices for anamorphic lenses and may reduce the need for custom 65 mm glass.
07
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Pricing and launch timing are described as “tentative” by Sony, so the $80,000 figure and first-half-2027 availability could change. No alternative figures have been reported.
08
What’s Next
Sony will release firmware updates adding the additional readout modes. Rental houses and production teams are expected to evaluate performance once units become available in early 2027.