Sony CineAlta camera beside a sony rialto 65 camera sensor unit in a studio setup.

Sony Unveils Rialto 65 Camera Extension with Massive 65mm Sensor for $80,000 Debut in 2027

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-10-30

Sony has announced its Rialto 65 Camera Extension System, set to launch in the first half of 2027 for $80,000. The extension system is a substantial investment, matching the cost of high-end luxury items, like a BMW M3.

Features of the Sony Rialto 65 Camera

The Rialto 65, designed for the Venice 2 CineAlta camera, boasts a colossal 65mm-format sensor, measuring 53.75 by 35.83 millimeters. The sensor is remarkable for its size, providing an image area over twice as large as a full-frame sensor. It supports a 9.6K 1.5:1 Open Gate readout and a 9.6K 2.20:1 mode with a diagonal of approximately 59 millimeters, accommodating a range of lenses to deliver exceptional video quality.

The groundbreaking advances in large format sensor technology align with Tamron’s unveiling of a compact lens that complements modern high-resolution cameras effectively.

Dual base ISO settings of 2500 and 10000 enhance its capability, offering over 15 stops of dynamic range at the lower setting. This extensive dynamic range, coupled with the large-format sensor, ensures high resolution and outstanding subject separation, allowing filmmakers to emphasize subjects effectively.

Sony’s Rialto 65 also includes two shooting modes. Extension Mode separates the camera head for challenging shoots, supported by 4.5-meter and optional 12-meter cables. Studio Mode attaches the extension directly to the body for more traditional use.

Sony CineAlta camera with sensor block detached, connected by cable, with Gecko-Cam lens.
A Sony CineAlta cinema camera with a detached sensor block connected by a cable, featuring a Gecko-Cam lens attached to the front.

The kit includes a 4.5-meter cable, while the 12-meter option costs $9,000 more. Another accessory, the CBK-NDK6510 ND Filter Kit with 11 drop-in filters, is available for $8,000, offering electronic communication with the camera for precise adjustments.

Weighing approximately 1.5 kilograms and measuring 115 x 154 x 63 millimeters, the Rialto 65 is compact yet powerful, benefiting from the Venice 2’s expanded capabilities, including Venice color science and 16-bit X-OCN internal recording. This makes it a prime choice among cinema cameras for filmmakers seeking flexible and portable solutions.

For filmmakers and creatives, exploring advanced imaging can also mean looking into revolutionary portable lighting solutions for enhancing on-set flexibility and results.

Sony camera sensor block with long cable, mounting plate, short cables, and filter frames.
A Sony camera sensor block connected by a long cable to a mounting plate, accompanied by several short cables and a series of rectangular filter frames.

“We’re excited to explore the 65mm visual format in ways never done before,” says Yang Cheng, Senior Vice President of Imaging Solutions at Sony Electronics Inc. This release is part of Sony’s broader commitment to expanding their line of extension systems, promising greater flexibility and creative freedom for filmmakers utilizing large format filmmaking.

Two Sony Venice cameras side view; one tethered, one in standard body configuration.
Two Sony Venice cinema cameras shown from the side, one in a tethered Rialto configuration and the other in a standard body configuration.

The system requires the Sony Venice 2 Digital Motion Picture Camera, priced around $60,000. With such high costs, the extension system and similar systems are typically rented for specific projects rather than bought outright, aligning with standard industry practices for high-end cinema equipment.

Image credits: Sony

Sony CineAlta camera beside a sony rialto 65 camera sensor unit in a studio setup.
A side-by-side view of a Sony CineAlta cinema camera with a lens attached on the left and a Sony 65 sensor unit on the right.

Source: petapixel.com

Frequently asked questions

When will the Sony Rialto 65 launch?

Sony has announced its Rialto 65 Camera Extension System, set to launch in the first half of 2027.

What is the price of the Sony Rialto 65?

The Sony Rialto 65 Camera Extension System will debut for $80,000.

What camera is the Rialto 65 designed for?

The Rialto 65 is designed for the Venice 2 CineAlta camera.

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