Ricoh is unveiling its latest 360-degree camera this morning. Dubbed the Ricoh Theta V, the $429.95 4K camera is the latest in the line which launched in 2013 with the Ricoh Theta.
Available for pre-order now, and shipping in mid-September, the Theta V features 3820×1920 resolution video capture. That’s a massive improvement on the earlier Theta S, which offered a sub-1080p 1920×960, and the Theta SC, which allowed for 1920 x 1080 recording.
Perhaps the biggest usability improvement to the Theta V is the inclusion of remote playback. Users can now wirelessly stream their video to an external display directly from the camera. Previous devices in the Theta line (except the developer-only Theta R) required users to export their raw footage into a computer to stitch the image and create a useable video. That’s now all done on the device. Videographers can watch their footage on any display, and move the POV by moving the camera itself.
The Theta V boosts sound quality as well. Four microphones capture data from their respective dimensions, creating spatial audio that allows users to hear where the sound is coming from within the recording. Theta V owners can also buy the optional TA-1 3D microphone to further improve audio quality, priced at around $270.
As a final bonus, Ricoh also announced a waterproof case for the new camera. With a provisional price of $229.99, the Underwater Housing Case TW-1 offers protection underwater down to depths of 30m.
If you’re interested in how the new camera stacks up against other current offerings, you can head over to our 360-degree camera guide. For a fascinating look at some innovative uses of the Theta cameras, check out our story on the work of artist Kurt Gartner.
Update: Final price of the microphone added.
