DJI’s Ronin 2 is hard to beat, but maybe the newest pick is near?
The new one Ronin RS 3 Pro finally got the handheld gimbal back to the payload capacity of the older Ronin-MX. You can mount the Sony FS5 on the original Ronin-M and MX, but that has become a challenge for newer gimbal models. Thankfully, the RS 3 Pro has extension arms, and DJI touts the ability to mount Sony’s FX6 on it.
With the upgraded dimensions in mind, I was wondering if the new RS 3 Pro could compete with Ronin 2? The last time I set up the Ronin 2, we only had Blackmagic’s 6K Pro on it, and I’m pretty confident these mid-rangers should consider a smaller gimbal setup now.
Upgrade Ronin Rs 3 Pro to match Ronin 2
Ronin 2 has many useful professional features, for example:
- Large, hot-swappable battery.
- D-Tap and Lemo style power outputs under the camera base and battery.
- Wirelessly control the gimbal with an included remote.
- SDI input under camera, with SDI output on top handle.
Here’s a list of items that will bring the RS 3 Pro a little closer to the Ronin 2. Users may want to use the Ready Rig or otherwise with either setup.
Tilta’s ring holder
This aluminum ring is the biggest upgrade you can bring. It will allow the gimbal to be powered through V-Mount . converter (or Gold Mount). Additionally, this means that Rig Ready can be easily mounted, which eliminates the sound of footsteps from your footage. Finally, it will run electricity to the display and generator from a power output accessories. If you pair this with a D-Tap Splitter, you’re getting closer to Ronin 2’s abilities.
Wireless Monitor / Control
Since you cannot run an SDI cable through the gimbal, you may want a wireless video solution that is attached to the camera or its platform. Vaxis offers a kit for under $500 that’s light enough to work. Thankfully, the transmitter can be powered via USB-C which the gimbal can provide.
Then to control the gimbal wirelessly, Tilta’s Remote control handle should do the trick. I find it helpful to have a gimbal remote near the focus puller, as it can help speed things up between resets. This remote control can also be fitted to the Tilta’s ring if the operator is working alone.
Besides, DJI’s own Monitoring system can be paired with Ronin 4D handle, which provides a lot of control. Actually, this will also control Sony cameras. However, this is not an affordable option, at $3,300.
Who is Ronin 2 for?
DJI suggests that you can get the ARRI Alexa XT on the Ronin 2, which simply would never happen on a smaller gimbal. Similarly, there are some features that would be difficult to recreate on a smaller gimbal. The Ronin 2 has a load capacity of 30 lbs, compared to 10 lbs on the Ronin RS 3 Pro. The old one’s engine is also much more powerful, helping to resist wind at high speeds.
However, a pre-assembled Ronin RS 3 Pro will cost just over $2,000. While the Ronin 2 is the best option for larger productions, $8,400 puts it in a different league. You can of course rent the Ronin 2, which usually costs less than $200 a day. In fact, Lens rentals will rent it out for about $500 a week, with Truss willing to pay an extra $200.
However, the assembled RS 3 Pro has brought owners operating closer to the Ronin 2 than ever before. I can see this rig being loved in 2023. Versatility, availability of accessories and up-to-date technology will give a lot more flexibility to users.
