ARRI chose to make a scene at IBC with the introduction of three new digital cameras that are currently slated to ship beginning in June 2010. All three cameras will use a new CMOS sensor with a 3.5K pixel count and variable frame rates ranging from one to 60 frames per second.

The high-end model, the A-OV Plus, will have a 4:3 picture area on the sensor and an optical viewfinder, while the A-EV and A-EV Plus will use a 16:9 picture area (on the same sensor) and a digital viewfinder. Another major difference is that, while all three models will offer on-board HD recording, the A-EV Plus and A-OV Plus will have the option of recording uncompressed HD. The two “Plus” models will also feature an integrated radio modem for wireless control.

ARRI said the new ALEV III CMOS sensor is rated at an EI equivalent of 800+, with 12.1 stops of dynamic range. At its full-35mm frame size (that is, in the A-OV Plus), it will support anamorphic lenses. The high pixel count is meant to provide generous oversampling for 2K and HD-resolution deliverables.

The 1280×720 electronic viewfinder is built with a new F-LCOS array and features auto-calibrating LED illumination.

ARRI is also offering a special “early adopter plan” that will give owners of the company’s D-21 digital camera system “exclusive upgrade options” when the new cameras are shipped. Further details are scant at the company’s “teaser” site for the cameras, www.arridigital.com, but more information should be forthcoming at IBC.