DJI SDR vs. Pro Video Transmission

Summary

This video explores the new DJI SDR transmission system, comparing it to the Pro version. It highlights its suitability for smaller creators and solo filmmakers, showcasing its ease of use, monitoring capabilities, and cost-effectiveness. The SDR technology offers superior range and reliability over Wi-Fi, making it an attractive choice for those needing a lightweight, budget-friendly solution.

Takeaways

• 🎥 DJI has released a new product, the DJI SDR transmission, which is similar to a previously reviewed product.
• 🔍 The main differences between the new SDR transmission and the Pro version are its form factor, build quality, and target audience.
• 🎬 The SDR transmission is designed for smaller creators, one-man teams, and those using less expensive camera equipment, unlike the Pro version which is for professionals on big film sets.
• 🌐 The DJI SDR transmission uses SDR (Software Defined Radio) technology, which is superior to Wi-Fi and provides better range, reliability, and lower latency.
• 📦 The package includes the DJI SDR transmission receiver (RX), transmitter (TX), adapter plates, and optional accessories like a phone holder kit and tablet holder kit.
• 📈 The traditional transmission system has a range of 6,000 meters and transmits 1080p at 50 megabits per second, while the SDR has a range of 3,000 meters and transmits at 20 megabits per second.
• 🔗 Both the traditional and SDR systems use HDMI, but the Pro version also has SDI in and out, while the SDR has only SDI in.
• 💼 The SDR system is lighter and smaller, making it ideal for mounting on a mirrorless camera, whereas the traditional system is heavier and typically used with larger cinema cameras.
• 💰 The SDR transmission is significantly cheaper than the traditional system, with the TX/RX combo priced at $5.49 compared to $2500 for the traditional system.
• 📱 The DJI app allows the phone to function as an external monitor, providing a live feed and additional features like guide frames for composition.

Q & A

What is the main difference between the DJI SDR transmission and the Pro version?

The main difference between the DJI SDR transmission and the Pro version lies in their target audience, size, weight, and price. The Pro version is geared towards professionals using expensive cameras on big film sets, while the SDR transmission is aimed at smaller creators, one-man teams, and solo creators. The Pro version has a longer range, lower latency, and higher transmission quality, but it is also larger, heavier, and more expensive.

Who are the DJI SDR transmission systems designed for?

The DJI SDR transmission systems are designed for smaller creators, one-man teams, and solo creators who are shooting simple videos on good equipment but not using high-end professional cameras. They are also suitable for solo creators like Johnny Fellow Uton, who film themselves in off-road locations.

What is the significance of the DJI app in the context of the SDR transmission system?

The DJI app is significant because it allows the user's phone to function as an external monitor. This is particularly useful for solo creators who can monitor their shots in real-time without having to physically retrieve the camera to check their footage.

What is the role of the DJI SDR transmission receiver (RX) and transmitter (TX)?

The DJI SDR transmission receiver (RX) is used to receive the transmitted image wirelessly, while the transmitter (TX) is mounted on top of the camera to send the image. The RX can be connected to devices like iPads or iPhones for monitoring, and the TX can be attached to cameras or gimbals using the provided adapter plates.

What are the advantages of using SDR technology in the DJI transmission system?

SDR (Software Defined Radio) technology offers several advantages over Wi-Fi, which is commonly used in cheaper transmission systems. These advantages include a longer transmission range, a more reliable signal, lower latency, and more versatile connections. SDR technology is a step above Wi-Fi and is developed by DJI under the name OcuSync.

How does the DJI SDR transmission system handle latency?

The DJI SDR transmission system has a latency of 80 milliseconds, which is slightly higher than the 70 milliseconds latency of the Pro version. Despite the difference, both are considered low latency systems, suitable for professional use.

What are the key specifications of the DJI SDR transmission system?

The DJI SDR transmission system supports a range of 3,000 meters, can transmit 1080p video at 20 megabits per second, and uses SDR technology. It also includes HDMI output and can be connected to a phone via Wi-Fi for monitoring.

What are some optional accessories available for the DJI SDR transmission system?

Optional accessories for the DJI SDR transmission system include the DJI Strr transmission phone holder kit with a cold shoe mount and the transmission tablet holder kit, which features quarter 20 female screws for mounting.

How does the DJI SDR transmission system compare in price to the Pro version?

The DJI SDR transmission system is significantly more affordable than the Pro version. The TX and RX combo for the traditional Pro system costs around $2500, while the SDR system is priced at $549, making it about a fifth of the price.

What are some recommended configurations for using the DJI SDR transmission system?

Some recommended configurations include: 1) Using the TX on top of the camera and the RX connected to an iPad or iPhone for remote monitoring. 2) Setting up a video village by connecting the RX to TVs or other monitors via HDMI output. 3) Connecting the TX to a phone via Wi-Fi for a larger on-camera monitor, while another phone or device is connected to the RX for the same view.

What is the purpose of the guide frames feature in the DJI app?

The guide frames feature in the DJI app allows users to set up a 3x3 grid on their phone screen, which helps with composition and ensures that the subject is correctly positioned in the frame. This is particularly useful for locked off shots where precise framing is crucial.

Outlines

00:00

📹 DJI SDR Transmission Review

This paragraph introduces a new DJI product, the SDR transmission, and compares it with the previously reviewed DJI transmission. The focus is on understanding the differences between the two, particularly in terms of form factor, build quality, and target audience. The SDR transmission is positioned as a more affordable and lightweight option, suitable for smaller creators, one-man teams, and solo creators like Johnny Fellow Uton, who uses it for overlanding and filming simple but beautiful stories. The paragraph also highlights the benefits of the DJI app, which turns a phone into an external monitor, and the importance of composition in locked-off shots. The package contents, including the DJI SDR transmission receiver (RX), transmitter (TX), adapter plates, and optional accessories, are briefly mentioned. The SDR technology is explained as a superior transmission technology developed by DJI, offering more range, reliability, and versatility compared to Wi-Fi.

05:01

💬 Comparing DJI SDR and Traditional Transmission Systems

This paragraph delves into the technical specifications and practical applications of the DJI SDR transmission system compared to the traditional DJI transmission system. The SDR system is noted for its smaller size, making it ideal for mounting on larger cinema cameras, and its use of both SDR and Wi-Fi technologies for transmission. The latency of the SDR system is slightly higher than the traditional system, but the difference is minimal. The paragraph also discusses the price difference, with the SDR system being significantly more affordable at about a fifth of the cost of the traditional system. Various configurations for using the SDR system are suggested, including using an iPad or iPhone as a monitor, setting up a video village with HDMI outputs, and connecting a phone to the TX via Wi-Fi for a larger monitor on the camera. The conclusion emphasizes the similarities between the two systems, with the SDR being a more compact and cost-effective version of the traditional transmission system.

Keywords

💡DJI

DJI is a leading technology company known for its drones and camera equipment. In the context of this video, DJI is introducing a new product, a transmission system, which is a device that allows for the wireless transmission of video signals from a camera to a monitor. The video discusses the differences between DJI's Pro lineup and the new SDR transmission system.

💡Transmission

In the video, 'transmission' refers to the wireless transfer of video signals from a camera to a monitor or display device. The DJI transmission system being discussed is designed to provide high-quality, reliable video feeds for filmmakers and content creators. The term is used to highlight the capabilities and differences between DJI's Pro and SDR transmission systems.

💡SDR Transmission

SDR, or Softwar Defined Radio, is a technology used in DJI's transmission systems that offers superior signal quality, range, and reliability compared to traditional Wi-Fi. In the video, the SDR transmission system is presented as a more affordable and compact alternative to DJI's Pro lineup, suitable for smaller creators and one-man teams.

💡Pro Version

The 'Pro version' in the script refers to DJI's professional-grade transmission system, which is geared towards professionals using expensive cameras on large film sets. The video contrasts this with the new SDR transmission, which is more suited for smaller creators and one-man teams, highlighting the differences in target audience and functionality.

💡Solo Creators

Solo creators are individuals who create content independently, often without a team. In the video, the DJI SDR transmission system is suggested as an ideal tool for solo creators like Johnny Fellow Uton, who films himself in remote locations. The system allows them to monitor and control their shots remotely, enhancing their ability to capture high-quality content on their own.

💡Overlanding

Overlanding is a travel style where one drives an off-road vehicle to remote locations, often for adventure or exploration. Johnny Fellow Uton, mentioned in the video, is an example of a content creator who uses overlanding as the basis for his storytelling. The DJI SDR transmission system is highlighted as a tool that can aid in this type of content creation by allowing remote monitoring and control of camera shots.

💡App

The term 'app' in the video refers to the software application developed by DJI that allows users to control and monitor their camera feeds through their smartphones. The app is praised for its functionality and ease of use, making it a key feature of the DJI transmission system, especially for solo creators who need to monitor their shots remotely.

💡Guide Frames

Guide frames are a feature in DJI's app that allows users to overlay a grid on their camera's viewfinder, helping with composition and framing. The video demonstrates how this feature can be used to ensure that the subject, like a car in a frame, is correctly positioned, which is crucial for achieving professional-looking shots.

💡TX and RX

TX stands for transmitter, and RX stands for receiver. In the context of the DJI transmission system, the TX is the device that attaches to the camera and sends the video signal, while the RX is the device that receives the signal and displays it on a monitor. The video explains how these components are used in different configurations for various filming scenarios.

💡Video Village

A 'video village' is a setup on a film set where monitors are placed for crew members and clients to view the camera's live feed. In the video, the DJI SDR transmission system is shown to be useful in setting up a video village, allowing multiple people to monitor the camera's feed simultaneously, which is beneficial for collaboration and client relations.

💡Latency

Latency in the context of video transmission refers to the delay between the time a video is captured by the camera and when it is displayed on the monitor. The video discusses the latency of DJI's SDR and Pro transmission systems, highlighting the importance of low latency for real-time monitoring and control during filming.

Highlights

DJI has released a new product, a transmission system, which is smaller, lighter, and cheaper than their Pro lineup.

The new DJI transmission system is designed for smaller creators, one-man teams, and Twan teams, as opposed to the Pro version which is geared towards professionals using expensive cameras.

The DJI SDR transmission is particularly suitable for solo creators like Johnny Fellow Uton, who films himself in off-road locations.

The DJI app allows the phone to function as an external monitor, enhancing composition and making it easier to frame shots.

The new DJI SDR transmission system uses SDR technology, which is superior to Wi-Fi and offers more range, reliability, and versatility.

The traditional DJI transmission system offers a range of 6,000 M, while the SDR system offers about 3,000 M.

Both systems can transmit 1080p, with the SDR system transmitting at 20 megabits per second and the traditional system at 50.

The traditional system has an SDI in and out, while the SDR system only has an SDI in.

The SDR system is lighter and smaller, making it ideal for mounting on a mirrorless camera.

The latency of the SDR system is 80 milliseconds, while the traditional system has a latency of 70 milliseconds.

The SDR system also uses Wi-Fi, allowing for image transmission without a cable connection.

The DJI app provides a smooth user experience and automatically opens the display when the SDR transmission is connected to the phone.

The price of the traditional transmission system's TX/RX combo is $2500, while the SDR system is priced at $549, making it about a fifth of the price.

The SDR system is essentially a mini version of the traditional system, offering similar technology at a lower price point.

Three favorite configurations for the SDR system include using the TX on top, connecting the RX to an iPad or iPhone, using HDMI out for a video village, and connecting the TX to a phone for a larger monitor.

The SDR system is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, allowing creators to monitor their shots more effectively.

For those interested in learning how to use their gear to its fullest, Full-Time Filmmaker offers a comprehensive gear section and tutorials on producing cinematic content.

Transcripts

well another month another new DJI

product except I swear we reviewed this

[Music]

one so not that long ago we actually did

a video review on this transmission

we've tested its range its specs we've

taken on quite a few shoots actually we

just used it on a commercial about 2

weeks ago so when DJI told me about this

my first question was what's the

difference and Beyond just the form

factor and the build quality at a glance

on a spec sheet what's the difference

between these two and who are they

geared towards cuz there's no other

reason that DJI would launch a

transmission that's smaller lighter and

cheaper than their Pro lineup I guess

unless it was for somebody else so while

the pro version is definitely geared

towards professionals on big film sets

using really expensive cameras the SDR

transmission seems to be geared towards

smaller creators oneman teams Twan teams

people who are shooting really simple

videos on good equipment but not quite

like are Alexa material and even more

specifically in my opinion for the solo

creators this is Johnny fellow uton

actually which is fitting because he's

built his entire career with overlanding

which is basically taking an off-road

vehicle driving it to cool locations and

then Johnny films himself there he tells

just really simple but beautiful stories

but for Johnny he's just filming himself

so he's grabbing a tripod on a camera

and getting these shots and typically he

would just frame His Image without him

in it hit record run into the frame do

his thing and then run back end the

recording and have to watch it back to

see if he even got his shot yeah this is

the pot nobody

sees walking back to retrieve the tripod

on camera but with this he can monitor

it the whole time one of the great

things about the app that DJI has with

this system is that it pretty much makes

your phone function as an external

monitor because composition is King with

locked off shots I'm able to go into the

settings and I'm able to set guide

frames so I can have my 3x3 grid now I'm

able to see exactly where I need to be

with the car in this Frame

so this is literally just one and

done now we can

see how nice that is and also I'm able

to see if any cars are coming behind me

so it's win-win right now now I'm just

going to straighten up a little bit get

myself in that

3x3 yeah that's sick now I didn't even

have to get out I have it locked in and

I'm good to go and because he's just a

oneman team he doesn't really need the

robustness of the Pro System something

light and small like this is perfect so

in the box we have the DJI SDR

transmission receiver or the the RX and

then the transmission transmitter or the

TX the TX will always go on top of your

camera and then the receiver can be used

if you're trying to transmit that image

wirelessly there also a couple of

adapter plates in here we have the TX

gimbal mounting adapter plate if you

want to attach it to the Ronin and the

TX camera mounting adapter plate with

quarter 20 screws if your camera has

that it lets you mount this pretty

similarly to the pro version then some

optional accessories if you want them we

have our DJI St strr transmission phone

holder kit with a nice cold shoe Mount

and then our transmission tablet holder

kit this one doesn't have a hot shoe

Mount but it does have some quar 20

female screws at the bottom if you want

to mount it in some way so comparing the

two both of them actually use what's

called SDR technology if you look at a

spec sheet for the DJI transmission

system they refer to it as 03 Pro on

this one they just refer to it as SDR

but it's the same thing they're both

using SDR technology which is a step

above wi-fi people often confuse SDR for

standard dynamic MCR your standard

definition but Str actually means

softwar defined radio so it's a Superior

Transmission technology that's been

developed by DJI over several years of

iterations and DJI is referred to it as

ocusync so cheaper transmission systems

from other brands typically use Wi-Fi

because it's a really cheap technology

to implement but if you want more range

more reliable signal lower latency and

more versatile connections SDR is the

way to go so with both of them being SDR

but only this one being referred to as

03 Pro it's pretty safe to assume that

this is really just a beefed up version

of this so in the traditional

transmission system you get 6,000 M of

range with the strr you get about 3,000

both can transmit 1080p this one does at

20 megabits per second this one at 50 so

the live feed on this is going to be

slightly higher quality side by side

both of them have HDMI the pro has an

SDI in and out and then the SDR is just

SDI in when it comes to size and weight

this one's definitely heavier it's a

little bit more than twice the weight

and then comparing the size this one is

quite a bit smaller which is great cuz

typically you're going to be mounting

this to a much bigger cinema camera and

this one will typically go on a mirror

list when it comes to latency the SDR

has 80 millisecond latency transmission

has 70 pretty small difference to be

honest so for SDR Beyond just using SDR

transmission technology it actually also

uses Wi-Fi so if you don't have a cable

to connect this to your phone you can

use Wi-Fi to transmit that image and

honestly the app is great super smooth

you get a lot of functionality out of it

and it knows when you've connected the

SDR transmission to your phone inside of

the app it'll just open up that display

right away now funny enough the specs

between these two are not all that

different but the price is so the txrx

combo on the traditional transmission

system goes for

$2500 for the txrx on the SDR $5.49 so

about a fifth of the price which is is

shocking because again they use

basically the same technology they have

really very similar specs but with SDR

you take the same technology from

transmission you throw in a few nice

inapp features and you have a baby

version for a fif of price so a few of

my favorite configurations for the SDR

number one you get your traditional TX

on top you can mount that however you

like and then your Rx hooked up to the

iPad or an iPhone I think in most cases

this is how you're going to be

configuring it like if you're Johnny and

you're setting up your camera far away

away and you didn't monitor that that's

perfect the second one is the video

Village it's actually the same as the

first one but instead of hooking up your

Rx to an iPad or an iPhone you're

actually using the HDMI out so that way

you can connect it to TVs other monitors

if you'd like to and so when we're on

set with a client having a video Village

so they can view what our camera is

viewing is super beneficial the third

one is also really similar to the first

one except our TX is also connected to a

phone so now we have a slightly bigger

monitor right on top of our camera the

phone is connected to the TX via Wi-Fi

and then we have our iPad or another

phone plugged into the RX so now the

camera operator has the same view as the

person with the receiver so overall

these are super similar really what's

happening is two different transmission

systems with the same technology except

one is a little bit beefier longer range

lower latency and the other is basically

it's mini counterpart so if that was the

number one question on your mind when

this thing launched hopefully that gives

gives you a really good idea of the

differences by the way if you want to

learn how to use your gear to its

fullest go check out full-time filmmaker

we have a full gear section walking

through all the technical details of

using stuff like this you also learn how

to produce cinematic content how to work

in different Industries like real estate

weddings Action Sports you name it

thanks for watching and as always if you

have any further questions please let me

know

[Music]

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