DJI Ronin 2 Announced - A more powerful, flexible video stabiliser

A more powerful, flexible and versatile DJI Ronin 2 was announced at NAB in Las Vegas. The headline features include the new carbon fibre monopod frame, more powerful motors for increased payload, redesigned remote transmitter and built-in touchscreen. We take a look at what is new with DJI's flagship professional video stabiliser and learn about its UK release date.

DJI Ronin 2 : At a glance

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0PgZsP8yBQ

• Just 4.2kg or 5.5kg when used with the handle bar
• 8 hour runtime (down to 2.5hrs when powering a camera and accessories too)
• Dual-battery setup with hot-swappable batteries 22.8v 4280mAh
• Maximum working payload of 13.6kg
• Independant IMU, new GPS receiver and temperature sensors
• Revised power distribution system  4x 14.4v, 3x 12.6v, and a P-Tap spread across the system
• Both power and video signals transmitted through slip ring
• New software with panorama and timelapse functions

Powerful, high-performance, cinema-grade gimbal

The system has been redesigned across the board for performance, versatility and expanded compatibility. A new detachable grip design does away with the separate stand, allowing operators to place it down on a level floor. The Ronin 2 can now be mounted in a variety of ways from this grip to ready rig, cable cam, steadicam, jib and car mount. The system is built around a new carbon fibre design that promises to be both lightweight (just 4.2kg without handle bar) and resilient. With its new high-torque motors, the Ronin 2 is now capable of stabilising a payload up to 13.6kg, coming on for twice that of the original system. Setup and adjustment should now be easier than ever thanks to a new lever and screw design. DJI say that everything, from mounting cameras to balancing and tuning, powering accessories and transportation has been tweaked and refined for ease and speed. It has a built in GPS which provides position, speed and acceleration information to the IMU to assist stabilising the camera at high speeds on a zip line or hung from a fast moving vehicle. As with other professional line releases, DJI have produced a short film showcasing its abilities.

Battery and power system

The DJI Ronin 2 uses two of the same TB50 batteries as the Inspire 2 and allows users to hot swap the cells without powering down the Ronin, ideal for use in time-critical situations. When paired with the Inspire 2 hub these take 90 minutes to charge. Cameras, monitors and other accessories (including the excellent DJI Focus) can be powered through integrated cabling and ports across the system. The new power system allows a RED Dragon camera to be powered directly from the Inspire 2 cells, although it reduces the overall system runtime to 2.5hrs.

DJI Ronin 2 Remote Control

The new Ronin now has its own remote controller. Gone are the twin gimbal sticks, replaced with a smarter, more compact and functional joystick design. The dual rate of the stick can be adjusted directly on the transmitter with the rotary dials.  As with other DJI products it now uses both 2.4Ghz and 5.8Ghz and can control the gimbal at maximum distance of 1km in ideal conditions.

A brand new touch-screen

A new display and control panel has been added to the rear arm. Tactile buttons bordering the screen mean functions such as motor pause are just a tap away. This ultra-bright built-in touchscreen means gimbal settings can be adjusted directly, without loading up the assistant app on your mobile device.

Software Control

The DJI Ronin 2 is now capable of intelligent automated motion thanks to its onboard computing systems. Features such as CamAnchor, Timelapse, and Panorama enable the motion of the gimbal to be pre-programmed to provide a specific shot without requiring direct operator control. This is controlled through a new gimbal assistant app.

DJI Ronin 2 release date

DJI have informed us that the Ronin 2 will be available by the end of Q2 2017 and we expect to receive pricing information in the coming months. We will be updating this blog and our social media accounts with more information as we receive it.