DJI Inspire 3: New top model with 8K full-frame sensor and many upgrades

[15:02 Thu,13.April 2023 by Thomas Richter]

Finally, the new version of the Inspire 3 is here - it&s been 7 years since the release of the previous model, so time for a major update to the latest technology of DJI&s top-of-the-line model for filmmakers. And indeed, DJI has given upgrades to all components, starting with the new Zenmuse X9-8K Air gimbal full-frame camera, which can record CinemaDNG and ProRes RAW and has a dynamic range of more than 14 f-stops, centimeter-accurate positioning via RTK including new intelligent Waypoint Pro shooting modes, RC Plus remote control, a new omnidirectional obstacle detection system, and an FPV camera with night vision.

DJI Inspire 3

However, all the upgrades come at a price: the Inspire 3 is now only available in a 14,999 euro combo set (CinemaDNG and ProRes RAW together cost another 1,000 euros or so extra) - a huge jump in price compared to the previous model, which was already available from around 3,400 euros to a maximum of 9,800 euros, depending on the equipment. DJI thus makes it clear that the new Inspire is aimed squarely at professional film productions and sets it even further apart from the prosumer and consumer models.

DJI Inspire 3

New Zenmuse X9-8K Gimbal Camera

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As

expected, DJI has equipped the Inspire 3 with a new dedicated Zenmuse model and that is the Zenmuse X9-8K Air gimbal with full-frame camera with a dynamic range of more than 14 stops and Dual Native ISO. It uses DJI&s latest CineCore 3.0 image processing system to internally record CinemaDNG video at up to 8K/25fps and Apple ProRes RAW video (though both only via optional license key) at 8K/75fps. In S&Q mode, ProRes RAW video can be recorded at up to 4K/120fps. DJI&s Cinema Color System (DCCS) is also supported.

At full frame 30 fps and below, the Zenmuse X9-8K Air camera offers EI 800/4000 and supports 24 fps, which is common for film productions, as well as 25 fps. At more than 30 fps, EI 320/1600 is available. Recording is done on the included DJI PROSSD 1TB with a write speed of up to 1,100 MB/s and a read speed of up to 900 MB/s, which can be connected directly to a computer via USB-C cable.

Zenmuse X9-8K Air Gimbal Camera.

Via a 3.5mm jack, it supports the Timesync function for precise synchronization of footage from multiple cameras. Unfortunately, hopes have not been confirmed that the new Zenmuse camera can also be used in the modular

Ronin 4D gimbal camera system.

Design

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DJI has redesigned the Inspire 3, giving it a lightweight compact body that seamlessly integrates the FPV camera, vision sensors, positioning antennas and memory card slot. The Inspire 3 achieves up to 28 minutes of flight time with the help of the new TB51 smart dual batteries, which can be hot-swapped. The propulsion system enables a flight speed of up to 94 km/h, climb and descent rates of 8 m/s and dive speeds of up to 10 m/s.

New lenses

The Zenmuse X9-8K Air camera is compatible with an additional 18mm F2.8 full-frame ultra-wide-angle lens and a new telephoto lens, which will be released later, that are specifically designed for 8K aerial photography. In addition, 24mm, 35mm and 50mm full-frame lenses are available.

Accurate positioning via RTK

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The Inspire 3 uses the professional RTK (Real Time Kinematic) system used in metrology to achieve centimeter-level accuracy. RTK is thus said to provide not only a more stable flight attitude, but also more precise flight routing.
By activating the RTK 2 network or setting up a D-RTK 2 Mobile Station, high-precision positioning can be achieved without additional modules.

Waypoint Pro: New Intelligent Flight Recording Modes

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In addition, RTK enables the new Waypoint Pro function, allowing professional flight route and recording planning with a variety of individual settings. Waypoint Pro- enables such features as exact repeatable flight routes or the 3D Dolly, a new option that allows users to simulate recordings by crane, rope camera or a dolly. This feature allows users to plan a flight path for the pilot to move back and forth with the drone, adjusting speed and gimbal angle to meet shooting needs. The new Spotlight Pro feature allows solo pilots to detect and track single objects and realize complex shots.

New obstacle detection

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The Inspire 3 is equipped with nine vision sensors, enabling a robust omnidirectional sensor system that can detect obstacles in all directions and provide comprehensive protection while flying.However, individual sensors can also be specifically disabled for special shots and an obstacle warning area can be manually set for different scenarios.

FPV camera with night vision

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The Inspire 3 features a new 1/1.8-inch sensor FPV camera with ultra-wide 161° field of view that delivers low-latency live feeds up to 1080p/60fps for pilots even at night.

New FPV Camera

O3 Pro

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The Inspire 3&s new O3 Pro transmission system provides a transmission range of up to 8 km in single control mode or up to 6.4 km in dual control mode. The live feed at up to 1080p/60fps has an extremely low latency of 90 ms. For the first time, a 4K/30fps live feed is also supported at a reduced transmission range of 3 km to meet the needs of UHD image control and live streaming on set.

RC Plus Remote Control

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Included in the package is the RC Plus remote control, previously only inj DJI&s Matrice drones, which features a 7" 1,920 x 1,200 display with a brightness of 1,200 nits and HDMI output, and also supports dual operator mode, in which the drone is flown by the pilot via FPV camera and the cameraman separately operates the Zenmuse camera. Thanks to the improved dual control mode, two remote controllers can now independently receive transmission and control signals from the drone, allowing the pilot and gimbal operator to be in different locations on set.

DJI Inspire 3 Combo

Price and availability

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Unlike the Inspire 2 or the other DJI drones, there are no longer different packages, but only a single offer. For example, the DJI Inspire 3 will be available from the end of June for a price of €14,999 in a comprehensive combo set that includes the DJI Inspire 3, Zenmuse X9-8K Air gimbal- camera, RC Plus remote control, six TB51 smart batteries, battery charging station, PROSSD 1TB, wheeled case, three foldable quick-release propellers (pair), lens carrying case, RC Plus harness and more. Those who want to shoot in CinemaDNG and Apple ProRes RAW will also have to spend another 999 for the two license keys, which are at least cheaper than before (1,500 euros).

more infos at bei www.dji.com

deutsche Version dieser Seite: DJI Inspire 3: Neues Profi-Modell mit 8K-Vollformat-Sensor und vielen Upgrades kostet 14.999 Euro