CineD tests Sony A7rVI: Record dynamic range, promising signs for A7sIV

CineD has put the Sony A7rVI through its paces, and the results are eye-opening. The camera delivers record-breaking dynamic range in lab tests, hinting at exciting possibilities for the upcoming Sony A7sIV.

According to CineD’s analysis, Sony has crafted a highly compelling package with the a7R VI. Rolling shutter performance, whether using dual gain mode or not, remains very manageable. The real headline, however, is the dynamic range. With dual gain switched on, the camera achieves up to 14 stops at SNR = 2, the highest figure CineD has ever measured.

Still, lab numbers only tell part of the story. When CineD moved to real-world studio testing, the 10-bit internal codec became a bottleneck. In their latitude test, the camera comfortably delivers 9 stops of exposure latitude, but hits a hard wall at 10 stops, even with dual gain activated. In 8K mode, where dual gain is unavailable, the camera struggles to reach even 9 stops, highlighting just how critical Sony’s dual-gain implementation is.

As a result, the a7R VI cannot dethrone the current consumer full-frame champion, the LUMIX S1II, in practical shooting scenarios. But CineD sees a silver lining. If the a7R VI’s dual-gain technology is a preview of what Sony has in store for a future Sony A7sIV, then there is plenty of reason for excitement. The foundation for a true low-light powerhouse is already here.