December Update...

[Jannard]

We have recently made significant improvements to many aspects of the RED ONE. That includes a new lens mount, better image quality by a new IR/low pass filter and moving it into a new location, better DSP, new sensor processing magic (instead of the new daughter board), a reworked mount system for the board stack, new(er) firmware, more features enabled... you get the idea. SO....

While we have been working tirelessly,

1- December deliveries will not hit the target quantities. We expect to ship about 200 cameras (don't call us, we'll call you). We will work continuously over the holidays to try to catch up. We hope to get back to a more reasonable delivery schedule after the 1st of the year.

2- We will replace all cameras serial #1-100 at N/C. *The replacements will be designated by an X (Serial #10X). Since many of these cameras are in service, this replacement process will be done during, or after, the month of January, at the discretion of the owner. You will ship your camera back to us (at our expense) and we will send the replacement upon receipt of your camera (at our expense). If your camera is in use and you want to wait for a better time to do the replacement, there is no time deadline to send it back. No complaints about the replacements being done in January (or later at your discretion) will be accepted.

3- EVFs are now in real production as are RED Drives. Delivery quantities will be slow at 1st for EVFs, RED Drives at good quantities. It also appears that we are in much better shape to deliver other RED accessories than in the past.

We appreciate everyone's patience. The decision to "think out loud" was a dangerous one. You hear the good, bad and the ugly as we go along. We hope that we can continue to operate this way. It is a refreshing (although challenging) way to communicate to our customers.

Jim

[Benjamin Rowland]

Thanks for the update.
And thanks for all the hard work.

[Jay A. Kelley]

Well I'm not surprised Jim.. And while it's not the best of news.. This is what I signed up for. I will be cool with it. Do your best.

I will still be here.

Jay

[Justin Anderson]

"and there was much rejoicing..."

thanks Jim.

-J

[Casey Green]

Thanks for the update, Jim. This is fantastic news - with all of the improvements. I'm sure every owner and operator will be extremely pleased to hear this.

Thanks for the generosity and commitment you have shown. This is off the charts!

Keep up the great work, but please, DO ENJOY SOME HOLIDAY TIME?

Thanks again,

[Mark Pugh]

Jim,
Does the "more reasonable delivery schedule" happen after the 1st month, or 1st quarter?
Thanks.

[Vincent S]

I really like the way you communicate Jim, Please keep up the good work and thanks for the update.

[Brook Willard]

This is all really terrific news, thanks for the post.

So you're replacing the *entire* camera for the first 100? The changes you're making sound pretty remarkable. Can't wait to see all of the changes working together in a new body.

Looks like we'll finally have a few more camera bodies! :)

PS - If you're having trouble disposing of any of those old 1-100 bodies... :biggrin:

[Tony Lorentzen]

Jim - you're making more friends than money these days. My hat is off to you and your team's dedication and determination to bring the best camera to market.

[Jaime Vallés]

Thanks for letting us know. That's great that the EVFs and Drives are in production!

[Mark L. Pederson]

2- We will replace all cameras serial #1-100 at N/C. *The replacements will be designated by an X (Serial #10X). Since many of these cameras are in service, this replacement process will be done during, or after, the month of January, at the discretion of the owner.

Great stuff, Jim.

It might be a little emotional to put ELVIS & MR. BOND out to pasture. Maybe you can find a nice shelf somewhere for their retirement. They have worked so hard!

[Casey Green]

PS - If you're having trouble disposing of any of those old 1-100 bodies... :biggrin:

I wasn't gonna say it. :wink:

[Tonaci Tran]

#102.... man..I'm just waiting for the phone call or email to run to the RED office. It's so close hehe.

[Shawn Nelson]

Thanks Jim! I appreciate your continued openness.

[Ryan Damm]

Thanks for the info, Jim.

Just out of curiosity and selfishness, how does this affect the delivery of later serial numbers? (Especially #794.)

[Antoine Fabi]

Thanks for the update Jim!

I much prefer having the real and honest information, like you gave to us from the begining. This "thing" hasn't changed !

So much hard work from you and your team....

Truly appreciated.

Hey !!! I agree with Casey, Enjoy some holiday time.

Antoine

[Shawn Nelson]

Oh, and don't rob the Red People of their Christmas's! They've accomplished so much already.

"A man's no man at all, who doesn't spend time with his family"
-Don Vito Corleone

[sheezy]

Is this an option? Pay in December anticipating a Jan. delivery.

[Craig Bowman]

200 more cameras this month is perfect with me. I can't wait to get the call! Terrific news on the Red Drives and EVFs as well. Hope the 50-150mm will be joining that party soon!

[zak forrest]

AMAZING

Love the good, bad, and ugly =]

[IAN SUN]

While I was hoping to have my cameras delivered in January for a project I'll be shooting at that time, It now looks like that won't happen (maybe not even in February). I am only partially disappointed however, because the improvements you have listed are huge, especially in light of the "issues" thread.

I have one question though; when will audio be enabled?

[number6]

We have recently made significant improvements to many aspects of the RED ONE. That includes a new lens mount, better image quality by a new IR/low pass filter and moving it into a new location, better DSP, new sensor processing magic (instead of the new daughter board), a reworked mount system for the board stack, new(er) firmware, more features enabled... you get the idea. SO....

While we have been working tirelessly,

1- December deliveries will not hit the target quantities. We expect to ship serial about 200 cameras (don't call us, we'll call you). We will work continuously over the holidays to try to catch up. We hope to get back to a more reasonable delivery schedule after the 1st of the year.

2- We will replace all cameras serial #1-100 at N/C. *The replacements will be designated by an X (Serial #10X). Since many of these cameras are in service, this replacement process will be done during, or after, the month of January, at the discretion of the owner. You will ship your camera back to us (at our expense) and we will send the replacement upon receipt of your camera (at our expense). If your camera is in use and you want to wait for a better time to do the replacement, there is no time deadline to send it back. No complaints about the replacements being done in January (or later at your discretion) will be accepted.

3- EVFs are now in real production as are RED Drives. Delivery quantities will be slow at 1st for EVFs, RED Drives at good quantities. It also appears that we are in much better shape to deliver other RED accessories than in the past.

We appreciate everyone's patience. The decision to "think out loud" was a dangerous one. You hear the good, bad and the ugly as we go along. We hope that we can continue to operate this way. It is a refreshing (although challenging) way to communicate to our customers.

Jim

You woke me up just to tell me this? Please, just call me when my camera is ready. G'night....

[ChristopherKenworthy]

OK, please Jim, please, please, please can we have a tiny little more clarity on what may happen in 2008. We have Red #745 and Red #1048 reserved for a feature that starts shooting in late March. Will we get even one of those in time, down here in Australia?

[Emanuel A.]

We have recently made significant improvements to many aspects of the RED ONE. That includes a new lens mount, better image quality by a new IR/low pass filter and moving it into a new location, better DSP, new sensor processing magic (instead of the new daughter board), a reworked mount system for the board stack, new(er) firmware, more features enabled... you get the idea. SO....

While we have been working tirelessly,

1- December deliveries will not hit the target quantities. We expect to ship serial about 200 cameras (don't call us, we'll call you). We will work continuously over the holidays to try to catch up. We hope to get back to a more reasonable delivery schedule after the 1st of the year.

2- We will replace all cameras serial #1-100 at N/C. *The replacements will be designated by an X (Serial #10X). Since many of these cameras are in service, this replacement process will be done during, or after, the month of January, at the discretion of the owner. You will ship your camera back to us (at our expense) and we will send the replacement upon receipt of your camera (at our expense). If your camera is in use and you want to wait for a better time to do the replacement, there is no time deadline to send it back. No complaints about the replacements being done in January (or later at your discretion) will be accepted.

3- EVFs are now in real production as are RED Drives. Delivery quantities will be slow at 1st for EVFs, RED Drives at good quantities. It also appears that we are in much better shape to deliver other RED accessories than in the past.

We appreciate everyone's patience. The decision to "think out loud" was a dangerous one. You hear the good, bad and the ugly as we go along. We hope that we can continue to operate this way. It is a refreshing (although challenging) way to communicate to our customers.

JimIf you'll introduce more changes in the next future, I'd prefer to wait a little bit more for my 111 -- instead further replacements though we all appreciate your mood and commitment w/ your replacement policy. A new daughter board would be gold and worth the long waiting.

E. :-)


EDIT -- OK Jim, I said all... But it seems a few can have a different point. The women, for example, they're used to ask us for when...but it takes time to bring a new babe to the world!

[Siva Kollipara]

I have never seen a project like this that is so transparent about it's progress, I have never seen a forum like this that supports incredibly.

The most fascinating thing is not simply RED camera, but the whole project itself.

Good Luck

[luis bustamante]

Wait! No matte box news?

Seriously, thanks for the update and all your effort. We will wait patiently for Red's call and when we get our cameras we will give them the use that will make you proud.

Saludos from Mexico.

[Steve Murray]

This is GREAT news. A much better camera that will come a little later, no problem for me. Sure, I would love to have my camera now but I know I will be happy as hell when I do get it, thank you very much.

I continue to be amazed by RED (everyone) and your personal commitment to the Revolution. Replacing 100 cameras for free.... improving the cameras as you go.... I have no complaints. Please continue to amaze us.

Thanks to everyone at RED.

[Ben Feuer]

Thanks for the update...

[Neurodancer]

I am #285. I guess that puts me near the end of the month. We have a shoot on Jan 3rd. That is what I call a cliff hanger!

[David Battistella]

Thanks Jim,

And a big SHOUT OUT to the early adopters who have helped bring about these improvements with their feedback.

Your willingness to shell out your cash to be part of the real world experiments will help all of the later serial number holders. I appreciate all of the posts and the sharing of information (it will only make for a better product).

So thank you to TEAM RED (the users) and RED TEAM (the developers).

David

[C.H.Haskell]

These updates sound incredible Jim, I know you guys are going to be busy this holiday and I also hate ask but, you planning to ramp production in 08?

Great Holiday RED team!

[Mike]

ohh.. an additional 200 cameras. I am in the 300s, I just missed it.
And I have a shoot at the end of January, praying that I will be able to use Red for the shoot.

It's too close not to use a Red!

[Gian Joon]

I am sure everyone will appreciate improvements over delivery time frame. A bit late is not too late.

Remember guys every one here is making history. And that is not an easy feat.

[Larry McKee]

We will replace all cameras serial #1-100 at N/C.

Jim

Now hold on just one minute there, mister. That kind of customer service won't fly in this industry. You have to show your gratitude to your early adopters by forcing them to buy a RED One "A" if they want to take advantage of all the new features. Sheesh. Don't you know anything about business? :sarcasm: :sarcasm: :sarcasm:

[Jannard]

Just so you know... we will take the original 1-100 and update them when we have time to put in the service and demo pool. They will get some special code (not sure what yet) when that happens.

We still hope to keep our 2008 schedule mostly in tact. Once we get these changes out of the way, production should ramp up pretty quickly. I hope to post a revised 2008 schedule sometime in January so everyone knows where they stand.

Thanks for the support. I don't really know how to run a business so I just keep making decisions as if I was the customer (I am actually). If this all works out, maybe someone at Harvard Business school will think we were smarter than we actually are... :-)

Jim

[Poi Boy]

much Aloha to you and the team Jim !
-A

[Brook Willard]

Just so you know... we will take the original 1-100 and update them when we have time to put in the service and demo pool. They will get some special code (not sure what yet) when that happens.

Demolition... part deux?

[Rick Darge]

2008 seems so far away..

Thanks for updating us..

[Eric MacIver]

Thanks for the support. I don't really know how to run a business so I just keep making decisions as if I was the customer (I am actually). If this all works out, maybe someone at Harvard Business school will think we were smarter than we actually are... :-)

If only all business people thought this way.

[Larry McKee]

Thanks for the support.

Jim

Thank you for your support. I'm still overwhelmed by the $2500 discount. Do whatever you need to be comfortable releasing the camera. Because I know that when you are happy with it, we will be ecstatic.

[Jason Francois]

Thanks for the support. I don't really know how to run a business so I just keep making decisions as if I was the customer (I am actually). If this all works out, maybe someone at Harvard Business school will think we were smarter than we actually are... :-)

Jim

I'm going to keep this in mind with a new company that I'm starting in 2008. I've been paying attention, so I don't have to go to Harvard (couldn't get in anyway). :)

Thanks for the update and Happy Holidays.

[mezmo]

Just so you know... we will take the original 1-100 and update them when we have time to put in the service and demo pool. They will get some special code (not sure what yet) when that happens.

We still hope to keep our 2008 schedule mostly in tact. Once we get these changes out of the way, production should ramp up pretty quickly. I hope to post a revised 2008 schedule sometime in January so everyone knows where they stand.

Thanks for the support. I don't really know how to run a business so I just keep making decisions as if I was the customer (I am actually). If this all works out, maybe someone at Harvard Business school will think we were smarter than we actually are... :-)

Jim

Hi Jim,
Having 100 or so upgraded cameras in a demo pool and if I may suggest a service pool (worldwide) is a fantasic idea.
Good luck with the big steps ahead.
Mezmo

[Tom Lowe]

Thanks, Jim.

[JD Holloway]

I don't really know how to run a business so I just keep making decisions as if I was the customer (I am actually). If this all works out, maybe someone at Harvard Business school will think we were smarter than we actually are... :-)

Jim

LMAO let me know how that sunglass idea turns out!
I still have a set of yellow '84 "Factory Pilots" somewhere!

[Gbabymogul]

Anytime you want to improve the camera even more than i'll wait a wee bit more. I've been waiting for a year and 8 months (who's counting).

That's what I love about privately run family business' with a ceo who cares. It's their name and reputation on the line, so they're always striving for excellence. You're not in this for the stock options

How is anyone going to ever be able to say yup, this is the cameras specs and quality when you guys are always improving it ? Every review is dated soon after it's done. It's sorta' funny to watch in a consumer sense. they brought out the hvx and that was it. If you didn't like it ? Oh well. Buy our next camera. Same with your competitors, Arri, Sony, Thomson, they all have their place but this is a new ballgame, imho...

:beer:

[Rick Darge]

Well put


Anytime you want to improve the camera even more than i'll wait a wee bit more. I've been waiting for a year and 8 months (who's counting).

That's what I love about privately run family business' with a ceo who cares. It's their name and reputation on the line, so they're always striving for excellence. You're not in this for the stock options

How is anyone going to ever be able to say yup, this is the cameras specs and quality when you guys are always improving it ? Every review is dated soon after it's done. It's sorta' funny to watch in a consumer sense. they brought out the hvx and that was it. If you didn't like it ? Oh well. Buy our next camera. Same with your competitors, Arri, Sony, Thomson, they all have their place but this is a new ballgame, imho...

:beer:

[Gavin Greenwalt]

If you want to use those first 100 as an R&D Beta pool I would be more than happy to take one and keep you apraised of my findings. :D Serious.

[Häakon]

Thanks for the update, Jim. You are world class.

[Shawn Nelson]

I don't really know how to run a business so I just keep making decisions as if I was the customer (I am actually).
Jim

Lol, Jim, you crack me up sometimes.

Here's some more quotes in the same spirit

"I really don't know how to invent stuff" - Thomas Edison

"I don't really know how to write music" -John Lennon

"I'm not really sure how to conquer anything" -Alexander the Great

[Gabriel C.]

I'm sorry. I think it's great that everyone is giving Jim love ... and of course he deserves it ... but I was told on these boards that my camera would ship in August ... so I planned a shoot in mid-January. I figured four and a half months would be enough of a wait ... and it's been so frustrating being led on and given hope only to find that I have to go to the producers with my tail between my legs and say "Sorry, we need more money to rent the camera I was expecting four months ago."

I understand you're working hard, I understand you're doing something groundbreaking, and I'm glad to be a part of it ... I just think that my view, as someone who is disappointed should be heard.

I'm not going to ask for a refund +10% ... I'm just going to be sad until the mighty day when the best piece of equipment I've ever owned arrives.

IMHO

[ChristopherKenworthy]

I'm sorry. I think it's great that everyone is giving Jim love ... and of course he deserves it ... but I was told on these boards that my camera would ship in August ... so I planned a shoot in mid-January. I figured four and a half months would be enough of a wait ... and it's been so frustrating being led on and given hope only to find that I have to go to the producers with my tail between my legs and say "Sorry, we need more money to rent the camera I was expecting four months ago."

I understand you're working hard, I understand you're doing something groundbreaking, and I'm glad to be a part of it ... I just think that my view, as someone who is disappointed should be heard.

I'm not going to ask for a refund +10% ... I'm just going to be sad until the mighty day when the best piece of equipment I've ever owned arrives.

IMHO

Same problem here. But, you know, it's our fault for taking the risk. We always knew that things could go badly wrong. We were always warned. My darkest fear was that ramp-up of production would not happen, and I still fear that could be the case, because cameras are trickling out at a rate of about 50 a month, on average. How will we ever get to 600 a month? Still, as I say, our risk.

My only complaint is that we keep being told we're given all the good, bad and ugly news, but we don't get much news at all, for weeks. I know they are busy, but posts take minutes. The lack of news is difficult to bear. Even now, we're told we might have a six week wait for another schedule. That lack of news is going to cost me many tens of thousands of dollars. My Red might turn up in time, but with this lack of certainty, I will have to rent just in case. And to think I told the financiers that Red could potentially save us money.

[Paolo Tinari]

I think i have to change my end of december ticket to la...

[NateWeaver]

I know they are busy, but posts take minutes.

I don't think I, you, or anybody else would want to hear the news on a day-by-day or even week-by-week basis. Too many ups and downs.

I do appreciate the approach, but if I had to guess, I'd guess Jim would say "never again", as to making Red.com a fishbowl while developing a product. I'm sure the process is hard enough without the added pressure of an audience.

[Daniel Reichenbach]

Yessss, good news for 222 a christmas present... Please e-mail me, don't call me, because I'm on a little island just for sun, fun and REDone (soon?).

[sander kamp]

So what happens to cameras 300-600 that were originally scheduled for December? Do we have to wait until January before we get news about shipment?

I'm in that group and I really feel we are left in the dark. Schedule for cameras delivered in 2008 probably intact, cameras 100-300 probably in December. Cameras 300-600...?

[ChristopherKenworthy]

I don't think I, you, or anybody else would want to hear the news on a day-by-day or even week-by-week basis. Too many ups and downs.

I couldn't agree more. Most of the news would be too up and down for us all to deal with.

But I care about nothing more than an updated schedule. We know the schedule is never accurate, but it does help with planning, a little. I'd take an update on that every week. As it is, everybody after #300 is guessing, guessing, guessing. Even before today's news, we were using a very old schedule, and adding ten days here, and interpreting a comment there... It's no way to live.

[Daniel Reichenbach]

Remember: If my information is right, there were about 300 to 400 reservations at NAB 2006, with other words, this where the first believers, the other reservations started around IBC in amsterdam. So it's fair to deliver now the next 200-300 cameras as soon as possible to the ones who are waiting this long time with great passion.

[Martin Ludwig]

So what happens to cameras 300-600 that were originally scheduled for December? Do we have to wait until January before we get news about shipment?

I'm in that group and I really feel we are left in the dark. Schedule for cameras delivered in 2008 probably intact, cameras 100-300 probably in December. Cameras 300-600...?

Jim said they will deliver about 200 cameras in decembre . that means
1-100 in exchange - and 101 - 200 for new.

[Tony Lorentzen]

I know (read: trust) that Jim would put the cameras out there if he could, but these delays must be sweet music to those who own cameras <#101 and the RedNinjas... They keep rentals and services for themselves in the market for a while longer.

I'm still hoping that I'll be able to pick up my RED at NAB 2008 or around those days, but I also know it's probably not going to happen - I just think the current schedule is too optimistic with more than 500 cameras being delivered every month (and already delivered cameras being exchanged for new ones). I wonder when they'll be able to say for sure - as NAB isn't just a 5 hours drive away for me and will require planning and a lot of arrangements (hotel, airplane etc.).

[Finner]

I do appreciate the approach, but if I had to guess, I'd guess Jim would say "never again", as to making Red.com a fishbowl while developing a product. I'm sure the process is hard enough without the added pressure of an audience.

Ya and lose his single largest marketing tool that he has full control of. That would a smart bussiness move.

[MAXHOFFMAN]

Jim - I admire what you are doing and I'm glad am able to take part in it. I'm rooting for you and the entire RED team.

Max
Red #2532

[Sven Seynaeve]

This stays the coolest company I've ever known, period.

You would never see replacing the cameras for the first 100 at other camera manufacturers, they would bring an update which would make your model already outdated quiet soon. And if you'd like to do this update, they would charge you a lot, if you're even able to make the exchange. I suppose you'd rather be selling it to someone else and even lose more money.
This is to honest to be true.

[Gavin Greenwalt]

You would never see replacing the cameras for the first 100 at other camera manufacturers.

This is to honest to be true.

I don't imagine you normally see the first 100 cameras. They usually probably are beta tested and beaten into a pulp and then thrown away if they're still alive.

It's good that RED is doing this but if these new builds provide pretty significant improvement there would be widespread accusations and perception that the first 100 got suckered into using a product released before it was ready and then left high and dry. That would be a PR disaster the likes of which a new company could probably not recover from especially since the early adopters will be either your most vocal advocate or critic. Hell if they left the first 100 adopters high and dry I would call sleezy as well. Not doing something incredibly underhanded and ethically questionable does not make you unbelievably honest.

Perception is everything and there is a reason why most big corporations shut up and don't talk about their development: lawsuits. You sell a product to a million people and there's at least one out there itchin' to resolve it in court. I don't imagine coming onto a forum and saying things like "I didn't intend for the early adopters to be beta testers but.." puts you on very solid legal ground if someone got an itchy lawyer finger.

It's all fun and games until someone gets sued... which unfortunately happens more now than I think we would all like.

[Jannard]

I'm sorry. I think it's great that everyone is giving Jim love ... and of course he deserves it ... but I was told on these boards that my camera would ship in August ... so I planned a shoot in mid-January. I figured four and a half months would be enough of a wait ... and it's been so frustrating being led on and given hope only to find that I have to go to the producers with my tail between my legs and say "Sorry, we need more money to rent the camera I was expecting four months ago."

I understand you're working hard, I understand you're doing something groundbreaking, and I'm glad to be a part of it ... I just think that my view, as someone who is disappointed should be heard.

I'm not going to ask for a refund +10% ... I'm just going to be sad until the mighty day when the best piece of equipment I've ever owned arrives.

IMHO

You have the absolute right to be sad and frustrated. It really doesn't matter that I posted "Everything in life changes... including our camera specs and delivery dates..." at the bottom of every post. We did post a schedule, tentative or not. We all made plans based on this hopeful schedule. I am frustrated. I am embarrassed and I am irritated that it has taken us so long to get the job done. I should have known better. This is a helluva challenge that we started from ground zero. I was nuts to think we could do it properly in this amount of time, let alone several months less.

I can only hope that all the waiting will be forgotten after all our customers get their cameras. Please take solace, I do, in the fact that the camera does things no other camera can do. It is priced to get in the hands of many. We are listening and have changed our program many times based on feedback. We are replacing cameras with better one at no charge. We will do our best to treat our customers as they deserve. No one is just a (serial) number at RED. Ask 1-100.

I encourage any who are frustrated to set aside one full minute to swear at us, kick the table, or whatever else you need to do to vent. Then come back and join the club with a clear purpose. Life is a long road.

Jim

[Häakon]

I can only hope that all the waiting will be forgotten after all our customers get their cameras.
I know it's frustrating, themusic (sorry, I couldn't find your name anywhere), but what Jim says really rings true. Even the first 100 camera owners dealt with delays after delays, and he's right - even though they've put up the disclaimer a million times, when schedules are posted frequently one wants to believe that targets will be met. But the camera is amazing, and now that mine has personally shipped, all of my frustration with the delays is completely gone.

I was one of the first people to get in line for the HVX, too, because I thought it had real promise (on paper). But from day one I have never been satisfied with that camera. It sucks to put down any amount of money and be disappointed from the moment you open the box. With all the hype and expectations surrounding RED, you'd think that they'd be destined to face even harsher disappointment from their critical user base. But from nearly all reports I've seen, people love their camera. It is worth every minute you are waiting for it.

This last weekend I shot lots of footage with RED, an HDX900, and 35mm film. All I can say is that Panasonic and Sony have a lot of work to do in their cinema line if they want to stay players in this game. The HDX body alone costs over $25,000, and the image quality isn't even close. I'm going to post some frames and video in a little bit so people can see some differences. The quality and value of RED is in another world.

I also really have to commend Jim on the decision to replace cameras 1-100 at no additional charge. In this world, it can really suck to be an early adopter (or "beta tester," as in this and many other cases). Most companies don't pay any attention to the fact that you're a steadfast believer in what they're trying to accomplish and usually charge you a premium to be first. I honestly weighed the decision about waiting to take ownership of RED #79 until hardware bugs were sorted out... I don't mind the software/firmware upgrades at all, but I wasn't about to pay $40,000 for a brand new camera system to find out that cameras 50 serial numbers down the line had superior hardware improvements. The fact that they're retiring all of our old bodies and keeping us as current as the ones coming fresh off the assembly line speaks volumes. The fact that we don't have to pay for a "RED ONE-A" version that "fixes" things should be the rule, not the exception. Yet RED seems to be one of the very few holding steadfast to that philosophy. Some say that RED is just doing these things to keep up their reputation; they're new players in the game and they can't afford to look bad right out of the gate. But I prefer to think that this is just Jim's philosophy; that he really does care about his customers and wants RED ONE to be the best it can be. This isn't about selling thousands of "pretty good" cameras and running away with the "camera of the moment" cash. RED is the real deal and they're going to do what it takes to make sure that's the way it stays.

The wait sucks, but you'll forget all of this when the camera finally ships. And then you'll wonder how you put up with everything inferior you've used until that point. Hang in there.

[Jeff Mustaman]

All these irritations and frustrations it really shows how much everybody cares for the RED ONE. Reduser is great.
Thanks so much for all the post Jim, it's not just information, it gives hope to a lot of dreams that will become true because off this camera.

[sander kamp]

Jim said they will deliver about 200 cameras in decembre . that means
1-100 in exchange - and 101 - 200 for new.

Jim said in his first post: "this replacement process will be done during, or after, the month of January" so as far as I understand it cameras 100-300 are scheduled for December.

Please Jim, since numbers 300-600 are the ones the hardest hit by this delay, can you give us anything in terms of timeframe/news/kind words?

Having said that, I appreciate you sharing you thoughts with us. It makes the wait a little more bearable.

[Jannard]

Jim said in his first post: "this replacement process will be done during, or after, the month of January" so as far as I understand it cameras 100-300 are scheduled for December.

Please Jim, since numbers 300-600 are the ones the hardest hit by this delay, can you give us anything in terms of timeframe/news/kind words?

Having said that, I appreciate you sharing you thoughts with us. It makes the wait a little more bearable.

There is a reasonable chance (here we go again) that we will be caught up by mid-January. Please read the words carefully. :-)

Jim

[ChristopherKenworthy]

There is a reasonable chance (here we go again) that we will be caught up by mid-January. Please read the words carefully. :-)

Jim

It means a lot to hear this. I will never, ever come back here say, "But you said it would be ready by...", because I want to encourage public schedules and estimates.

Sincere thanks, even if you don't catch up by mid-January.

[sander kamp]

Thanks Jim. I'm doing my best to get immune for disappointments.

If at any time in December you know more please don't hesitate to give as an update :-)

[A. Bastaki]

...We will work continuously over the holidays to try to catch up....
Jim

Screw all your customers, You and especially your staff need that break. You can delay sending your 200 cameras an extra week. As the leader of the rebellion, your men and yourself need that break.

[Andrae Palmer]

Screw all your customers, You and especially your staff need that break. You can delay sending your 200 cameras an extra week. As the leader of the rebellion, your men and yourself need that break.

No time for breaks in a revolution... but a big party is due after the coup.

[dalemccready]

Some clarification of when numbers close to my own (#498) will possibly be available may in fact keep me in the game. A delay would actually suit me at this stage.

[Michael Stanmore]

Yeah I agree that once the camera's specs are locked down and production has ramped up, that'll be the time for a HUGE party.

[Ed Watkins]

but.. what is Santa going to bring me for xmas now? :cold:

I hope it not a Sony F23... :greedy:

[Radoslav Karapetkov]

Good and realistic progress.

Happy holidays!

:sorcerer:

[Curran Giddens]

There is a reasonable chance (here we go again) that we will be caught up by mid-January. Please read the words carefully. :-)

Jim

Great! It looks like 300-600 will only be delayed (from my previous estimate of Dec. 31) by a couple weeks. No problem.

[Milan Nikolic]

Good news Jim. Thanks for all good work you and your team done on RED ONE. Happy holidays! BTW, when to
expect my #1104? In February or March?

[sbroock]

We will replace all cameras serial #1-100 at N/C. *The replacements will be designated by an X (Serial #10X).

Ohhhhh. That's just great. Now I have to go and get an X added to my tattoo of RED 0039.

:)

[M.Halsell]

Unfortunately, experience does sometimes come ass backwards. The 'open information' was a significant gesture on the part of Jannard & team. 'Discreet' information is probably enough for the us in the general population.

Any perceived delays are an essential part of the process. We are all buying in the Jim's Vision. His vision sets the tone or more importantly the value of the product that we are investing our time and money into. The better the product the greater the return on the investment.

2008 is a new year. Let's finish this year with the fact that RED successfully shipped and is actively being field tested. And that appropriate features are being resolved into new models.

Cheers.

[Dave Dessel]

Jim and the all of the Team,

Thanks has been said so many times on threads of all shapes and sizes. In spite of that, I feel personally obligated to express my deep appreciation for the honesty and all of the incredible hard work. I can't wait to get my camera, and I am happy to wait for however long it takes. I have also learned how to improve the way I treat my customers by Red's example. For that I say thanks as well. I wish all of the Red team an awesome and restful holiday.

-Dave Dessel #: 522

www.daviddessel.ccom

[Rich Schaefer]

Jim, LET YOUR HEART NOT BE TROUBLED!

I would much prefer you work out the issues with the Red cameras now! It would be a disaster to be on set and have major or even minor issues! It would damage Red's reputation and mine!

My customers are typically spending $20k to 200k to shoot their days. If the footage is screwed up or we spend lots of time trying to get the camera working. I have a huge problem! It means someone did not get what they payed for and the director has lost time to get good performances!

It's best you are doing it right!

Rich,

P.S. As #115 I am very excited!!!!!! Oh... there is the phone, maybe it's ...

[Matthew Verkler]

You have the absolute right to be sad and frustrated. It really doesn't matter that I posted "Everything in life changes... including our camera specs and delivery dates..." at the bottom of every post. We did post a schedule, tentative or not. We all made plans based on this hopeful schedule. I am frustrated. I am embarrassed and I am irritated that it has taken us so long to get the job done. I should have known better. This is a helluva challenge that we started from ground zero. I was nuts to think we could do it properly in this amount of time, let alone several months less.

I can only hope that all the waiting will be forgotten after all our customers get their cameras. Please take solace, I do, in the fact that the camera does things no other camera can do. It is priced to get in the hands of many. We are listening and have changed our program many times based on feedback. We are replacing cameras with better one at no charge. We will do our best to treat our customers as they deserve. No one is just a (serial) number at RED. Ask 1-100.

I encourage any who are frustrated to set aside one full minute to swear at us, kick the table, or whatever else you need to do to vent. Then come back and join the club with a clear purpose. Life is a long road.

Jim

Reminds me of my divorce several years ago. I somehow had this idea that it would go reasonably quickly. I was reasonable, and I thought she was reasonable. My divorced friends said I was, um, underestimating the process. They said every person she knew was going to influence her away from being rational. I was still optimistic.

In short, they were right - it took wayyyyyy longer than I thought it would, and was hard as hell. But that's what needed to be done, we got through it, and now we have one of the best divorces ever! (yes, this is my inspirational holiday message).

Red is worth it too. Something like Red is only accomplished with great optimism, and though reality (and Murphy) must be dealt with, you still have to reach for the stars. Setbacks are normal; getting back to it with determination is what makes the difference.

President Kennedy said man would get to the moon by the end of the decade (of the 60's). We accomplished that goal in eight years. I'm glad Jim set his target more aggressively! And because it was so aggressive, a little slippage is understandable.

Being number 508, I was hoping for my Red before the end of the year; I can't say I'm happy (Christmas will be late this year, into next year), but I know it's almost here. And I have nothing scheduled for the camera until it's in my sweaty hands!

P.S. Did I really compare Red, man landing on the moon, AND my divorce in the same post? I don't even drink!

[planet e]

Another delay announcement...whatever.

RED Drive release announcement and longer record times....HALLELUJAH! Thanks, Jim and RED team.

[Eryc Tramonn]

Ya and lose his single largest marketing tool that he has full control of. That would a smart bussiness move.

Funny, I've written the same thing in here somewhere. It's a marketing move. Albeit a smart one that made the camera into a sociological event...a movement. Whether that was intentional, or happenstance...does it really matter at this point? It is what it is.

Criticism is easy in hindsight. And you're talking to king critic over here. But being the first to do something, or having the guts to put your ass on the line and go for something is uncommon. It just so happens that that spirit is really prevalent in this forum. To me, that's indicative of the spirit of a true filmmaker, an artist. Trying to make the leap from critic to player is always going to be a real bitch, and the niggling analysis Jim exposed himself to is ultimately a part of the greater good.

[Eryc Tramonn]

Yeah I agree that once the camera's specs are locked down and production has ramped up, that'll be the time for a HUGE party.

Can I come even though I don't own a camera? :gun: :sorcerer: :watsup: :ranting2:

[Casey Green]

I know it's frustrating, themusic (sorry, I couldn't find your name anywhere), but what Jim says really rings true. Even the first 100 camera owners dealt with delays after delays, and he's right - even though they've put up the disclaimer a million times, when schedules are posted frequently one wants to believe that targets will be met. But the camera is amazing, and now that mine has personally shipped, all of my frustration with the delays is completely gone.

I was one of the first people to get in line for the HVX, too, because I thought it had real promise (on paper). But from day one I have never been satisfied with that camera. It sucks to put down any amount of money and be disappointed from the moment you open the box. With all the hype and expectations surrounding RED, you'd think that they'd be destined to face even harsher disappointment from their critical user base. But from nearly all reports I've seen, people love their camera. It is worth every minute you are waiting for it.

This last weekend I shot lots of footage with RED, an HDX900, and 35mm film. All I can say is that Panasonic and Sony have a lot of work to do in their cinema line if they want to stay players in this game. The HDX body alone costs over $25,000, and the image quality isn't even close. I'm going to post some frames and video in a little bit so people can see some differences. The quality and value of RED is in another world.

I also really have to commend Jim on the decision to replace cameras 1-100 at no additional charge. In this world, it can really suck to be an early adopter (or "beta tester," as in this and many other cases). Most companies don't pay any attention to the fact that you're a steadfast believer in what they're trying to accomplish and usually charge you a premium to be first. I honestly weighed the decision about waiting to take ownership of RED #79 until hardware bugs were sorted out... I don't mind the software/firmware upgrades at all, but I wasn't about to pay $40,000 for a brand new camera system to find out that cameras 50 serial numbers down the line had superior hardware improvements. The fact that they're retiring all of our old bodies and keeping us as current as the ones coming fresh off the assembly line speaks volumes. The fact that we don't have to pay for a "RED ONE-A" version that "fixes" things should be the rule, not the exception. Yet RED seems to be one of the very few holding steadfast to that philosophy. Some say that RED is just doing these things to keep up their reputation; they're new players in the game and they can't afford to look bad right out of the gate. But I prefer to think that this is just Jim's philosophy; that he really does care about his customers and wants RED ONE to be the best it can be. This isn't about selling thousands of "pretty good" cameras and running away with the "camera of the moment" cash. RED is the real deal and they're going to do what it takes to make sure that's the way it stays.

The wait sucks, but you'll forget all of this when the camera finally ships. And then you'll wonder how you put up with everything inferior you've used until that point. Hang in there.

right on. very well stated.

[Adrian T.]

Thanks for the update Jim.
I deeply admire your decision to replace 1-100 free of charge, wow. :usd:

[Steve Sherrick]

Aside from the tax man, this delay is actually working out for me. Never thought I would say that as I have been one of the anxious ones who just wants to get the camera and start working, but it has forced me to make a better business plan, research data management strategies, options for financing, lenses, etc. Sometimes we get caught in the got to have it now mentality, I know I do. But when all is said and done if you utilize the delay time to fine tune your approach, it can be beneficial. I have clients chomping at the bit to see the camera in action, but the reality is I won't put this camera onto a paying job until I am completely comfortable with it and I am confident of the workflow.

Jim, do what you have to do to get it right. Just make sure that when you reach that moment of satisfaction, i.e everything has come together as you imagined it, please share your excitement with us so we know that the camera has arrived (as in, it's the camera you have always wanted). I have to think that your standards are as high as anybody, so if you say you're happy, there's a good chance we will be too.

Steve

[vincelucero]

Hark the RED angel sings, glory to a newborn king... Everything about the RED company is amazing. Keep kicking ass. Thanks for taking us along for the ride, good, bad, ugly, whatever. I can be very patient for something that's not even supposed to be here for another 2 years according to Sony and the like.

[Kenn Michael]

Aside from the tax man, this delay is actually working out for me. Never thought I would say that as I have been one of the anxious ones who just wants to get the camera and start working, but it has forced me to make a better business plan, research data management strategies, options for financing, lenses, etc. Sometimes we get caught in the got to have it now mentality, I know I do. But when all is said and done if you utilize the delay time to fine tune your approach, it can be beneficial. I have clients chomping at the bit to see the camera in action, but the reality is I won't put this camera onto a paying job until I am completely comfortable with it and I am confident of the workflow.

Very well put Steve.

[Paul Hazlett]

Great stuff, Jim.

It might be a little emotional to put ELVIS & MR. BOND out to pasture. Maybe you can find a nice shelf somewhere for their retirement. They have worked so hard!

retire??? are you kidding those babies are getting retooled and back on the
road!!!! at least I hope they are.

[Rocco Schult]

I much prefer having the real and honest information, like you gave to us from the begining.


..I am only partially disappointed however, because the improvements you have listed are huge, especially in light of the "issues" thread.


P.S. Did I really compare Red, man landing on the moon, AND my divorce in the same post? I don't even drink! LMAO. When the ground[is]breaking, relations might shift. :w00t: :biggrin:


You have the absolute right to be sad and frustrated. It really doesn't matter that I posted "Everything in life changes... including our camera specs and delivery dates..." at the bottom of every post. We did post a schedule, tentative or not. We all made plans based on this hopeful schedule...
I was nuts to think we could do it properly in this amount of time, let alone several months less.

I can only hope that all the waiting will be forgotten after all our customers get their cameras...

Ok,first one :ranting2: , DONE.

2nd: No, not nuts. Without the guts to think and do so, this project wouldn't have come so far, period.
Your words have never been more open and honest than today, err, yesterday. VEEery much appreciated! More than before I think it was no error to have that open conversation.


You hear the good, bad and the ugly as we go along. We hope that we can continue to operate this way. It is a refreshing (although challenging) way to communicate to our customers.

Thanks for the flowers. And btw: the good, the bad and the ugly' is usually one of my favourites, like this time.

[msadauskas]

Thanks for update, Jim. And please take some time to celebrate holidays ;)

[Ben Wolf]

I'm probably not the only one in this position -- but as #325 in line it is becoming increasingly unclear whether we will be receiving or even paying for our camera this year. And for a small business like our's, this has some serious tax ramifications.

How can we find out now when we will be able to pay for our camera?

Thanks in advance for your attention!


Ben Wolf
Topiary Productions, Inc.

[Gopher77]

We will work continuously over the holidays to try to catch up. We hope to get back to a more reasonable delivery schedule after the 1st of the year.

Jim

All work and no play makes Jarred a dull boy. Geeze Mr Scrooge at least give them christmas day off with a bird to eat.

Seriously though thanks for keeping us up to date! Personally I didn't want to be in the first 500 cameras, I wanted the bugs to be worked out before getting mine. Mine has to go to work the day I take delivery, so I need it to be fully functional. I appreciate those who could afford to test out the camera and the improvements that have resulted. I also appreciate your being upfront with the good and the bad. I feel certain that the results of these delay will be well worth the wait. Happy holidays to all at red and don't work too hard!

[Michael "Dorkman" Scott]

I got this message in an e-mail after not being able to check the forum for the greater portion of the week.

See, was that so hard? :)

Thanks for the update. I just put together a DVD project for the first time. I projected that I could finish in 3 months. It took 9. So I understand wanting to take the extra time to get it right, and ALSO the frustration of having people frustrated with you when all you're doing is making sure their money is ultimately considered well-spent.

I'm happy to wait as long as it takes to get the camera I've always wanted. (Well, mine could do slo-mo, too, but I'll live.)

[Tony Lorentzen]

We have recently made significant improvements to many aspects of the RED ONE. That includes a new lens mount, better image quality by a new IR/low pass filter and moving it into a new location, better DSP, new sensor processing magic (instead of the new daughter board), a reworked mount system for the board stack, new(er) firmware, more features enabled... you get the idea. SO....


So - does this mean the camera will have enough power to be able to do 1080p 4:4:4 (via the dual HD-SDI ports)? (pretty please with sugar on top) :tongue:

[SIRAJ KUMKHE]

So able to do 1080p 4:4:4 (via the dual HD-SDI ports :tongue:

I HOPE SO

[Emmanuel Cambier]

I have reasons to believe so, but can't say more…

[vincelucero]

Wow, Kenn just noticed you got RED 187. Too cool. Picked out a name for her yet?

[Michael Hastings]

I'm probably not the only one in this position -- but as #325 in line it is becoming increasingly unclear whether we will be receiving or even paying for our camera this year. And for a small business like our's, this has some serious tax ramifications.

How can we find out now when we will be able to pay for our camera?

Thanks in advance for your attention!


Ben Wolf
Topiary Productions, Inc.

ditto on year end tax ramifications #206

[Jeremy Newmark]

I'm probably not the only one in this position -- but as #325 in line it is becoming increasingly unclear whether we will be receiving or even paying for our camera this year. And for a small business like our's, this has some serious tax ramifications.

How can we find out now when we will be able to pay for our camera?

Thanks in advance for your attention!


Ben Wolf
Topiary Productions, Inc.

I would contact Red about this. I could be wrong but I remember Jim saying at one point that you can make your full payment at anytime, even months before you recieve your camera.

[Roberto B]

You woke me up just to tell me this? Please, just call me when my camera is ready. G'night....:watsup: