2012Batteries/Power forum
Power solutions and cable compatibility for RED Epic and Pro cinema cameras
14 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.
What the thread found
- Epic cameras use proprietary red power connectors that are difficult to source commercially
- Custom Epic power cables can be obtained through specialized cable makers who stock the proprietary connectors
- Using a battery mounted on the camera platform as a counterweight is an effective alternative to purchasing expensive power cables
- Epic cameras have different power connector specifications than Pro or XCS models, making cables incompatible across models
- Some Epic owners report that warranty coverage is voided if third-party batteries are used to power the camera, though this claim is disputed by other users
- The Epic is lighter overall than comparable RED One setups even with cinema accessories like Preston focus controllers and matte boxes attached
- Epic run/start cables and BNC splitter cables are expensive additional purchases that may be necessary depending on the specific configuration needed
- Using industry-standard battery adapters like Anton Bauer or IDX systems with an SO-XLR plate allows powering the entire aerial camera package through a single 4-pin XLR cable
Depends on
- The warranty clause regarding third-party batteries is mentioned by some participants but disputed by others who successfully use standard industry batteries
- Power cable sourcing depends on availability from specialized cable vendors at specific times
- These solutions are specific to RED Epic and Pro cameras from the 2012 timeframe
- Compatibility issues are specific to different RED camera models