To those on the fence about the Blackmagic Pyxis...

There's a lot of misinformation and hype out there surrounding this camera, so I did my best to give as unbiased of an opinion on the Pyxis as I could. I was on the fence as well about buying the camera, so I just also give you a breakdown on my thought process regarding my decision. Everyone's needs, workflows, and budgets are different. There's nothing wrong with buying new gear, and there's nothing wrong with not spending your money on something that doesn't fit their needs.
The internet needs to collectively calm their little titties. It's just a camera.

[@waveland]

Regarding internal NDs: The 3:2 sensor in the Pyxis is literally twice as tall and about a cm wider when measured against the S35 sensor in either the 6k Pro or the C70, which means the slice of glass needed to cover a full frame sensor is huge in comparison to S35 NDs. And even electronic NDs need to be moved out of the way of the sensor for full light transmission. So I do not expect there will ever be an internal ND system for this body design. Given the height and width of the camera, basic geometry says no, especially with the bayonet positioned in the center. Sony parks the lens up high on the body to create a space below big enough to drop the filter out of the way and the E-mount takes up a bit less space as well. It will be a redesigned Ursa which will have enough vertical room (it’s not a flange distance thing) for NDs to slide out of the way. * Anyway, if you run multiple cameras and/or a sound bag and rely on timecode, then the Pyxis is a significant improvement over the BMCC for very reasonable money. Freeing up the 3.5mm mic jack means you have lost a balanced audio input, but picked up two unbalanced channels (three audio inputs instead of two). I’m good with that. Dual CFExpress is a great improvement which even allows for hot swapping if you’re recording a long event. The SDI output is faster and much more physically robust than HDMI, total win there. No one talks about it, but BM have added a standard 2-pin Lemo connector for power (again much more robust than the current solution). The side screen is an interesting design choice which in many ways comes from their broadcast roots where camera ops work from the shoulder. Mount the Pyxis to a Tilta Lightweight Shoulder Rig and you’ll find that the screen and buttons are in the perfect spot. But I realize, a lot of people don’t work that way and the screen will be a bit of a pain in the beginning. Though I expect BM will have some sort of mountable control screen running off the USB-C port before long, or you can pick up a Bluetooth monitor like what Portkeys makes and use that for basic control. It’s a brand new ecosystem, so they definitely have more work to do. For me, it’s perfect for downsizing out of an Ursa Broadcast 6k which is a lot to lug around most of the time.

[@AaronStowers]

It's always funny to see these KZbinrs slam these cameras at the beginning, only to see them end up with one after they get released. I'm from the film and broadcast world. I started with CBS Sports and am currently working for Fox Sports. In btw seasons, I shoot commercials and indie films. On the broadcast side of things, the camera is on my shoulder, viewing the image through an EVF, and if the camera is stationary, we work from behind while using a monitor. In conclusion, most of what these people are complaining about is flat-out silly reviewing something you haven't touched with absolute certainty will make an ass out of you every time.

[@EricShaquille]

Given Blackmagics propensity to design a camera body and continue to reuse it in their future cameras for years on end, I can't believe that they would design an entirely new(and more expensive) ecosystem completely incapable of having internal ND's, when they already had a lower end model that had 'em. It sounds like you know more about the physics and mechanisms of internal ND's than I do but if what you said is true it would be pretty disappointing. The piece of mind I had using the Ursa G2 and the C70 with the internal ND's had me come to the conclusion that my next big camera purchase needs to have it. I know that everyone's obsessed with full frame/large format but, like I said, throw a faster, high performing S35 sensor in there(easier to implement ND) and I'm sold.

[@waveland]

@@EricShaquille It’s not like I go to supplier trade shows so there’s always the possibility someone comes up with the elusive clear electronic ND which the can park inside and not move. That I wouldn’t know. Could they roll out a super fast S35 in this body for sports and active shooting and squeeze in NDs? Maybe? Though that would be an interesting departure for them. Time will tell.

[@d_FLDE]

The side screen is to me the deal breaker as a backup camera. Why make it a box style camera if it is in front of where I personally place my handle. Why not on top ? Just for settings 🤷🏼‍♂️ That is so utter nonsense. I would have preferred super 35 too.

[@AaronStowers]

@d_FLDE I can almost guarantee you tilta or small rig will make a cage with a rosette arm with an extension for the left side towards the front of camera

[@jacopoabbruscato9271]

People are mad about the screen being non-articulating, when box cameras usually don't have one at all. Mad about the lack of ND filters, when no similar camera (ZCAM, Komodo) has them. Sounds a lot like nitpicking for a camera that is half the price of a Komodo and is made with budget in mind.

[@andynonimuss6298]

I'm pre-ordering the Pyxis L-mount. I'm all about the Cyberpunk motto, "Style over substance!".

[@EricShaquille]

Hell yeah! I got some Cyberpunk/Synthwave music videos coming out on this channel this year.

[@andynonimuss6298]

@@EricShaquille Very nice!

[@AdamTV]

They dropped the ND filters when the switched from EF mount to L mount because of the shorter flange distance. It the wanted to add back the ND to say the EF box they would have to build out the front of the box like they did on the Pro pocket model. This changes the design totally.

[@rubenrodriguez2590]

I already ordered it... I want that sweet open gate... and the full frame sensor. :). Thanks for the video.

[@DirectingSven]

I think black magic should hire the alt cine guys. This is inexcusable design.

[@baydroid144]

The comparison with the S5iiX & video assist is pertinent. I own the S5iiX & video assist. It's BRAW has many limits the Pyxis doesn't have. E.G. It has no 24fps (only 23.98), and only the 16 by 9 aspect ratio is supported (though at full sensor width). That said its BRAW does behave just like a Blackmagic camera's BRAW in Resolve. Of course the S5iiX does have IBIS and tracking autofocus. So perhaps the comparison should be with a Pyxis and a DJI Focus Pro, together with the effort of applying gyro stabilisation in post.

[@EricShaquille]

This is true but then the cost of the Pyxis gets even higher. I'm 100% getting the focus pro and will be pairing it up with any Blackmagic camera I have or get in the future.

[@GarCorStudio]

Really enjoy your natural comedic evaluation/breakdown videos. Regarding the Pyxis and the Braw only issue, do you think it’s possible that one of the reasons they dropped the price of their Video assist is that buyers can pair it with the Pyxis and get ProRes (not ProRes raw) as another codec option via the video assist. That’s a question I have not seen anyone ask yet. Anyways, keep up the good work. Subscribed.

[@EricShaquille]

That could be it but I honestly think it's to attempt to clear out inventory before they release a newer model, one that I assume is capable of being powered by that USB-C port in the Pyxis AND Ursa Cine. Hopefully it would still retain Prores since Apple and Blackmagic seem to have a decent relationship. Of course that's all just speculation but If I'm gonna attempt to predict the future that's what I'd go with.

[@GarCorStudio]

@@EricShaquille Good assessment. I second your theory.

[@Damageonthestack]

Awesome style, bro. Earned a sub in about one minute 🙂

[@EricShaquille]

Thanks dude! Appreciate the love!

[@KofiYeboah]

To be fair, every reason why I sold my Komodo X came out the next day after this (as did the live stream I did with the design team) None of those reasons had much to do with one being better than the other, unique workflow and use case paired with living near 6-7 rental shops that have one ✌🏾 I’ll be firm but fair, if you’re going to call out KZbinrs on being clickbaity, I’d hope at the least, leaving a comment on the video you’re posting for more information would be considered, would of been easy to clear that up for you before the video Blessed ✌🏾

[@EricShaquille]

I wasn't really calling out clickbait titles. I was just showing how far to the extremes the discourse surrounding the camera had been at that point. There were several "selling my RED for the Pyxis" titles, but I didn't dive into finding out their motivations because it really wasn't the point of the video. It was 1 line in a 15 minute video highlighting the hype surrounding this release. Your reasons for selling it make total sense, it probably would've been a good idea to mention that in the video where you announce you're selling it, though. Because the title implies the pyxis is as good or better than the komodo x, which is obviously not true. That said, I've seen you receiving a bunch of undeserved hate over your video and how it might seem like I'm part of it. I'm really not, it's fucked up that's the response people had. This place can suck sometimes. Nothin' but love for you dude.

[@LamontCrook]

This was the best review ever!!! Loved it. Thank you. You saved me 3K. :)

[@EricShaquille]

I appreciate it bro, glad to help! I saved myself $3k as well haha

[@shawnmiller8169]

Hey, Eric. Interesting perspectives on the camera, although I think you might have stumbled past the answer to your own question at the end - "what's the value of the Pyxis compared to a mirrorless camera with or without an external monitor"? The FF sensors found in mirrorless cams that can capture raw aren't better than the BMD offerings, they're just tuned to do different things... and for different workflows. For those that favor the BMD approach to image processing (do everything in Resolve), the combination of color science, image pipeline and sensor is a big part of the value (of this camera). That's why Resolve ships with BMD cameras, it's part of the package. If you agree with them or not, a LOT of people LOVE the full frame look of the Cinema Camera 6k (and other BMD models) and many have been BEGGING Blackmagic for a box camera for years. Another thing that "everyone" seems to overlook is that Pyxis is also an all-metal build with (presumably) better cooling, similar to what you find in the Ursa models, so it's possible that you'll get slightly better noise performance. But don't hold me to that. 🙂 So, the answer to your question is: what you will not find in a different camera brand is a sensor tuned for the BMD color pipeline in Resolve (which ships with the camera). Every other feature (12bit SDI output, mobile device tethering, SDI T/C input, etc.) might be found in other cameras, but there is no substitute for those who prefer the BMD look. I can see why others might not find the total package worth $3k, but as you pointed out, there are great options for them too. 🙂

[@EricShaquille]

I appreciate the thoughtful reply! I actually agree with you in most regards. I honestly like the rec709 conversation from BMD Gen5 color more than V-Log which I find pushes skin tones a bit too red. Another thing I didn't mention in the video is you get the piece of mind of recording BRAW internally with the Pyxis which, in professional environments, it's a big deal. I'm one of the people who have been wanting a compact Ursa/Box from BM since like 2021. I was ready to buy it until I took the time piecing out how much I would be spending on it. Assuming that camera control monitor is coming, priced at about $500, CFE-B cards, Top Handle, BPU batteries, LWS baseplate, L-PL ND mount, all of a sudden I was looking at close to a $5k investment. I know everyone wouldn't get ALL of these things, but it's what I would want out of it. The $5k wasn't the problem, it was that it's $5k for a camera with a sensor that doesn't outperform it's mirrorless counterparts in either readout speed or dynamic range. Personally, I just couldn't justify it. I'm going to get a Pyxis eventually, but if it's this model I'll wait for it to be cheaper(used) or I'll just wait until a version with a sensor that's less limited.

[@johnnyweissmuller5838]

Is there like a screen lock or something? I think its easy to accidentsly touch and change settings and record by touching the screen on the side when holding it handheld

[@EricShaquille]

There's a screen lock in the bottom corner. Not having one would've been a disaster lol.

[@brivnii]

Amazing informative and funny vid! New sub!

[@EricShaquille]

Thanks bro!

[@anmol3936]

Awesome insights Eric. Subbed!

[@EricShaquille]

Appreciate it, dude!

[@anthonyrock5039]

Great take. The first thing I thought when I saw this was. Cool a mini Ursa. Then I thought great price. I saw this a side grade to the Pocket 6K. The funny thing is the whole "camera killer" clickbate which is misleading at best. The nicest thing about similar form factor cameras is that you have a small control or information screen but you add what ever viewing option you like in what you like or your team likes. They sell all of the above already. It would not be a camera for me but if I did buy it, it would be the "pro version" they they seam to release 1-2 years later with slightly more options.

[@waveland]

If you’re waiting for internal NDs, don’t hold your breath. There’s not enough room vertically or horizontally to stow the filters when not needed. Even an electronic ND has to be moved out of the way or you lose light even in its most “clear” setting. For that, I have to imagine we will have some sort of updated standard Ursa without the extra bells and whistles of the Cine.

[@35mmdigitalcinema]

Right on point!!!

[@prostigeMarketing]

I think the value is pairing with the 6k pro opposed to replacing for a 2 cam setup. If you have a 6kpro, you likely have extra handles, attachments and the software (250 resale value). The 3hr battery is actually around $350. Only attachment needed would really be the side attachment and monitor. I always use my 6k pro an a gimbal or sticks so a flip out screen wouldn'tbe that useful. I can see people using these for more corporate work, interviews, etc. Definitely not better than a red or c70 but its on the right track.

[@EricShaquille]

Good take! The market is being flooded with used Pockets right now so I don't think most people have put as much thought into it as you. They just see a new thing so they view the old thing as disposable.

[@MrInnovativeMusic]

Good take

[@markgilbaugh]

Appreciated your neutral position on this review

[@wyesguyproductions5102]

And you missed only having one SDI port! I too will see what V2 brings....

[@EricShaquille]

Good catch! I think having a monitor that can utilize that Usb-c port in the front is going to solve that issue, leaving the SDI port mostly being used for wireless transmission.

[@APU658]

Does the Komodo or Komodo X has more than one SDI? No they don’t. They have only one SDI. Don’t complain about something you don’t want just stay silent. I say nothing about something I don’t like or want. I just walk away in silence.

[@kurtnelle]

Why internal NDs vs like rear ND's?

[@EricShaquille]

There's a separate piece of glass that needs to be added and removed with a rear ND mount, because it doesn't go to clear. So its still another piece of kit you have to bring with you. Plus some lenses like the Nisi Athenas and certain anamorphics have protruding rear elements that extend far enough to hit the glass, making rear ND unusable. It's not the biggest deal but I imagine it would suck going from having internal NDs with a 6k pro to not having them in the Pyxis, despite it being a newer more expensive model.

[@kurtnelle]

@@EricShaquille So hold on a second. If there are lenses with rear protrusions then won't those protrusions also strike the internal ND filters? Therefore it is better that the camera doesn't have internal NDs?

[@EricShaquille]

Nah, not really. The internal NDs sit significantly closer to the sensor than any of the drop in mounts do and I've never heard of anyone having issues as far as clearance goes. The drop in ND brand that did the best to account for these issues is Breakthrough. But their PL to L mount and Vnd are about $1300. The more affordable ones like Poco and Meike give you less flange depth to work with, hence the clearance issues.

[@EricShaquille]

Of course screw on filters and mattboxes solve any clearance issues but once again it's more gear to be accounted for. It's a bigger deal in docu/run and gun work than any kind of corporate/narrative where you(presumably)have far more set up time.

[@kurtnelle]

@@EricShaquille You should really talk more about that, these are good points.

[@Sethmotley]

It’s not even hype it’s just hate. I own almost every BMD camera including the BMCC6K FF and the PYXIS is that in a box which we have been begging for years and BMD expressed over and over that the PYXIS is the same camera as the 6K full frame but somehow folks are not getting it.

[@mabitzz9484]

That’s not true.. it’s probably just your KZbin Feed…

[@mrshaheedmalik]

​@@mabitzz9484It's not just KZbin. People asked for the Cinema Camera 6K in a box body with a side screen, then Blackmagic made exactly what people wanted, and they are mad.

[@submariner1348]

This is an incredible camera for the price. The bitching and moaning appears to be nothing but a false hype led zeitgeist for KZbinrs to get clicks. Again, price for performance is insane. Fully rig -able, Blackmagic colour science/RAW, best edit/colour software-Resolve Studio for Free, 6K open gate, 12GSDI, Cloud backup etc etc etc. This is a legitimate B-Cam for Big Budget and an A Cam for everything else for $3000. If you can't handle popping a filter on your lens, or spending 1.5 minutes mounting a monitor-then perhaps another career path should be considered...

Recuerdo que todos se quejaron de los nds internos por que modificaban el color, incluso usaban externos... Con el modelo pro

[@EricShaquille]

Algunas personas lo hicieron. Todavía sería útil tenerlos para trabajos de estilo documental.

[@chennyye28]

I just simply cannot get why they put only ONE MINI xlr in this camera, they do have the space, and I find no reason to have two... so strange.

[@EricShaquille]

This is one of the more valid criticisms out there. There is so much more room to work with and they downsized that aspect from the Pocket 6k.

[@chennyye28]

@@EricShaquille I thought at least this one can be normal size XLR , just for enough space and easier cable management... it strongly feels like after one or two year we will see something much more refined.

[@elysiumcore]

I dont hate the camera - i love competition...i hope this lights up a fire under Sony to drop a sick FX4 👀

[@user-rb7xv6pq2o]

audio in the left channel, but good video

[@EricShaquille]

There's audio in the right channel but I didn't apply any processing to it so it's quiet and sounds like trash. I wish youtube allowed me to just change the audio to mono after uploading but I can't. I solemnly vow to never make this mistake again haha.

[@RandallMeredith]

I will not buy this version. When BM decides to make a real pro camera then I will buy it. I like the looks and buttons that light up. SDI is great. Fix everything else please.

[@EricShaquille]

What's keeping their Ursa cameras from being professional enough for you? They seem to check every "professional" box there is

[@vicious12394]

I love the blackmagic cameras but no one really looks for them when hiring so i had to go down the Sony FX9 route and tbh i dont really like sony because everything is ginped to protect their higher end cameras and the after sale care is kinda awful. Panasonic turned an S1 that when i bought it could only do UHD into a 6k camera with firmware updates

[@waveland]

You hit the nail on the head. I love BM for my narrative work, but I still have to keep and FX6 around to meet commercial spec sheets. And that’s not going to change any time soon. Nevertheless, I will get a Pyxis to downsize from an Ursa Broadcast I have which is a lot to lug around.

[@PhillipRPeck]

I think your audio is only coming out of one side

[@EricShaquille]

You're right! Apparently I'm an idiot and only applied processing to the left audio channel, there's audio on the other side, it's just lower. I wish youtube gave me a way to make everything a mono track in post...

[@PhillipRPeck]

@@EricShaquille Yeah, I wish there were more editing options in YT Studio in these cases

[@AN_films]

that's the video a diged for haha

[@EricMoore790]

I want it. I don't care what people say.

[@EricShaquille]

As it should be. Hard to go wrong with Blackmagic.

[@CCozart]

When did it become okay to saw Holy $#!& in a review?

[@EricShaquille]

It's truly unacceptable. I'm a naughty boy and need to be punished, daddy.

[@ereceeme]

Most of the haters want a high end camera for cheap they see the pxyis make up excuses because the don't have the 3k plus

[@politicallyshort9282]

BMPCC (also Jewish BTW) user here, really liked your review! 🙏

[@EricShaquille]

Sweet! Thanks achi!

[@DD23-1]

Why does the content creator World always have to be so fruity 🤔🤷‍♂

[@ichigen511]

Nah this camera wasn't made for you. It'a like assuming every single product made is targeted for you and when you don't like it you shit on it. It's completely asinine. Where else can you get 6K RAW for $3k?

[@EricShaquille]

You can get the original Panasonic S5 and a video assist for less than $1500 and shoot 6k Raw. Also the Pocket 6k, 6k Pro, BM Cinema 6k(full frame), S1, S1h, S5ii, S5iix, Gh6, Xh2s can all be had with a recording monitor for under $3k. This camera WAS made for me though. I'm gonna buy it and you can't stop me!