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by Nino LeitnerYesterdaySony has released firmware version 5.00 for the VENICE 2, covering both the 8.6K (MPC-3628) and 6K (MPC-3626) sensor versions of its flagship CineAlta camera. The free update adds a new “Signature” Preset Look for monitoring, a 4096×2160P 12G SDI output format at a 47.95 fps project frame rate, and the ability to use the CNA-2 Camera Control Network Adaptor as a LAN conversion adaptor.
The arrival of Sony VENICE 2 Firmware V5 is no surprise for anyone following Sony’s long-term firmware roadmap. The company confirmed earlier this year that VENICE 2 updates would continue through 2027, with V5.0 planned for 2026 and V6.0 to follow, as we reported in our coverage of the Sony firmware announcements at BSC Expo 2026. While the V4.1 update released in February focused on metadata refinements and support for the VENICE Extension System Mini, V5.00 turns its attention to monitoring workflows and network integration.
A new Signature Preset Look for monitoringThe headline feature is the addition of a “Signature” Preset Look option for monitoring. Preset Looks allow crews to view a graded reference image on set without touching the recorded X-OCN or XAVC files, and the new Signature option expands the choices available alongside the existing looks in the camera. Sony has not published detailed technical documentation on the tonal characteristics of the new look in the release notes, so we will reserve judgment on how it renders skin tones and highlights until we can evaluate it independently. For DITs and DPs who rely on consistent on-set monitoring pipelines, however, any factory-calibrated addition to the Preset Look menu is worth a closer look.
VENICE 2 camera rigged. Source: Sony4K 47.95p over 12G SDIThe second addition concerns output flexibility: 4096×2160P 12G is now available as an SDI output format when the project frame rate is set to 47.95 fps. This closes a gap for productions working at 48 fps-class project rates, a frame rate that has seen renewed interest for high-frame-rate theatrical and large-format work. Until now, monitoring and downstream recording options at this project rate were more limited over SDI; with V5.00, a full DCI 4K signal can travel over a single 12G-SDI line, simplifying cabling to on-set monitors, wireless transmitters, and external recorders.
CNA-2 becomes a LAN conversion adaptorFirmware V5.00 also extends the functionality of the CNA-2 Camera Control Network Adaptor, which can now be used as a LAN conversion adaptor with the VENICE 2. This should interest multi-camera and remote-operation setups, where the VENICE 2 has steadily gained networking and live-event functionality since the version 3.0 firmware update. Routing camera control over standard LAN infrastructure reduces the need for dedicated conversion hardware in broadcast-style and virtual production environments.
Smaller fixes for virtual production and levelingTwo further refinements round out the release. The visibility of the “Out of Range” text in the moiré alert level display has been improved in In-Camera VFX mode, a small but practical change for crews shooting against LED volumes, where moiré monitoring is a constant concern. Additionally, the brightness of the bubble gauge marking has been increased for better visibility on the monitor, which camera assistants leveling the camera in dim studio conditions will appreciate.
We tested the VENICE 2 for dynamic range, latitude and rolling shutter shortly after it came out. Image credit: CineDSony VENICE 2 Firmware V5 update path and requirementsBefore installing, note that Sony requires cameras to be on firmware V4.10. Units running V3.00 or earlier must first be updated to V3.9x, and cameras on V4.00 must first move to V4.10 before jumping to V5.00. The 822MB download package includes the update manual and release notes, and Sony recommends installation on all VENICE 2 systems. As always, firmware installation is at the owner’s risk, so read the instructions carefully before flashing a camera that may be heading to set the next day. If you are considering the VENICE 2 for an upcoming production, our VENICE 2 lab test covering rolling shutter, dynamic range, and latitude remains a useful reference.
The firmware V5.00 update is available now as a free download from the Sony support website for both the MPC-3628 and MPC-3626.
Are you shooting with the Sony VENICE 2, and which of these V5.00 additions is most useful for your workflow? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!