Sony has priced its upcoming RIALTO 65 camera extension system at $80,000, pairing a massive 9.6K open-gate sensor with the established VENICE 2 cinema platform. Slated for release in the first half of 2027, the modular hardware expands digital production into the 65mm format.
The system brings medium-format scale to high-end cinema productions by utilizing a sensor measuring 53.75mm wide by 35.83mm high. That imaging area is roughly 2.2 times larger than a standard 35mm full-frame sensor, placing it among the largest image capture blocks commercially available for digital film cameras.
Sony Builds the 65mm Sensor Module for VENICE 2
Sony engineered the RIALTO 65 (model CBK-6510XS) as a replacement sensor block and extension system for the existing VENICE 2 cinema camera platform.
This modular approach allows rental houses and major production teams already invested in the CineAlta ecosystem to transition into the 65mm format without discarding familiar recording media, camera controls, or post-production pipelines. The VENICE 2 body handles primary operational tasks, including internal 16-bit X-OCN recording and memory management via existing AXS memory cards.
Back in June 2026, YMCinema covered Sony’s engineering efforts on the RIALTO 65, a project built to convert the VENICE 2 into a 65mm digital cinema camera through a modular setup. When Sony announced the RIALTO 65 as a development project in June, observers noted a long list of open questions regarding resolution, recording formats, and lens compatibility. Originally previewed in July, this upcoming camera sensor is designed to integrate with the manufacturer’s existing Venice 2 camera system.
Cinematographer Łukasz Żal tested the new hardware on a short production titled “Local People.” The short film showcases the hardware’s low-light performance and color reproduction. Reflecting on the physical dimensions of the hardware, Żal shared his assessment of the format.
This size of a sensor, I think that’s the best size of the sensor. It does proportions as like photography, like a painting.
Łukasz Żal, PSC, Cinematographer
The camera head itself measures approximately 115mm by 154mm by 63mm and tips the scales at roughly 1.5 kilograms, or 3.3 pounds.
The RIALTO 65 supports Studio Mode. Here, the module mounts directly to the camera body.
It also supports Extension Mode, which separates the head from the main body via a connecting cable for tight spaces. The supplied cable measures approximately 4.5 meters, with an optional 12-meter cable available for setups requiring greater separation.
RIALTO 65 Supports Two Readout Modes and Adapters
At launch, the RIALTO 65 supports two primary readout modes. The 9.6K 3:2 open-gate setting utilizes the entire sensor area for maximum framing freedom, while a 9.6K 2.20:1 readout mode with a diagonal of approximately 59.04mm accommodates a wider range of available lenses. Additional readout options are slated for future software updates to the VENICE 2 body. The unit does not include a fixed lens mount, meaning it is designed to accept third-party lens-mount adapters suited to the specific production and optics being used.
As a comparison, the existing Sony VENICE 2 features an 8.6K full-frame CMOS sensor measuring 36.2 by 24.1 millimeters. By contrast, the new sensor module measures 53.75 millimeters wide by 35.83 millimeters high, with a diagonal measurement of approximately 64.60 millimeters.
| Component or Accessory | Tentative Price (USD) | Tentative Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| RIALTO 65 Camera Extension System | $80,000.00 | $113,800.00 |
| 12m Extension Cable | $9,000.00 | |
| ND Filter Kit | $8,000.00 |
The VENICE 2 body automatically recognizes the specific density information of whichever filter is inserted into the extension head. Sony offers a replacement ND filter kit for $8,000.
RIALTO 65 Targets High-End Hollywood Productions
Designed primarily for high-end Hollywood productions and specialized rental houses, the system competes against established ultra-large-format cameras like the Arri Alexa 65. Yang Cheng, senior vice president of imaging solutions at Sony Electronics Inc., outlined the strategic intent behind the hardware rollout.
As we grow our lineup of extension systems that enhance freedom and flexibility, we look forward to showcasing our commitment to the scope and deep expression of large format filmmaking by providing our VENICE 2 customers with more sensor options.
Yang Cheng, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc.
The system operates at dual base ISO settings of 2500 and 10000. According to Sony specifications, the sensor delivers more than 15 stops of dynamic latitude when operating at the ISO 2500 base setting. While Sony has scheduled the commercial release for the first half of 2027, company representatives note that this rollout window remains tentative.
New Post: Oct. 29, 2026. Sony announces additional details of the RIALTO 65 Camera Extension System for VENICE 2. RIALTO 65 is essentially a new front-end for the VENICE 2. You can use your existing camera, replace https://t.co/ocWJ9AD2SI pic.twitter.com/PgixDMlNK1