AJA¡¯s newest ProRes recorder, the Ki Pro Ultra, records and plays back ProRes 4444 and 422 files in resolutions up to DCI 4K at 60p. Versatile connectivity and Pak media compatibility make it easy to include in professional ProRes-centric workflows. As 4K is caught up more and more in the mainstream current of professional applications, hardware that can handle high-bandwidth workflows¡ªwhile being reliable, robust, and intuitive to use¡ªis necessary.
Enter the AJA Ki Pro Ultra. Combining all the functionality of a versatile studio deck with Apple ProRes codecs, the Ki Pro Ultra can record and play back ProRes files in resolutions up to DCI 4K (4096 x 2160) at 60p. ProRes is available in 4444 and 422 in all flavors including HQ, LT, and Proxy. All files are recorded straight to robust AJA Pak solid-state media whose proven reliability complements their speed for recording and transferring high-resolution content. The Pak1000 SSD is specced out to record even the highest bit-rate formats offered by the Ki Pro Ultra (as of the time of publishing, the Pak1000 is the only media option available for recording 4K at 60p, although 4K recordings above 30 FPS are limited to ProRes 422 HQ). The Ki Pro Ultra has dual slots for relay recording during long takes. Pak compatibility makes the Ki Pro Ultra a perfect companion to the AJA Cion camera, good for playing back 4K ProRes footage that was just recorded.
To ensure compatibility with modern, high-resolution video and audio sources, the Ki Pro Ultra has a bevy of I/O on the rear panel. Among those connections are quad-3G-SDI, and HDMI for video and audio. Fiber optics can also be used with the installation of separately available connector modules. For audio, the Ki Pro Ultra can accept embedded audio on any of the video inputs while providing the option to input and output audio from separate sources via analog RCA or DB-25, as well as AES/EBU, which is also delivered over DB-25. You can also find an RS-422 and LAN connections on the rear panel for remote control. For assurance during critical shoots, the Ki Pro Ultra features redundant XLR power inputs for DC power from a power supply or battery.
Despite all of the internal functionality, the Ki Pro Ultra is easy to use. A large 720p display, which takes up the majority of the front panel, provides confident monitoring of the video input and status display with ample room for menu diving. Menus are easily navigable with the single front-panel knob. A headphone jack and large transport control and slot selection buttons are also easily accessible via the front panel. All the controls, inputs, outputs, and slots are fitted into a sleek ruggedized chassis, which is 2 RU high and ? RU wide. Studios and post-production houses that depend on ProRes will enjoy the ease of use and reliability, while shooters on the go will appreciate the small form factor, rugged construction, and the integrated carry handle.
