DJI has introduced the SDR Transmission II, a professional video transmission system designed to enhance range and image quality for complex multi-camera productions. The Shenzhen-based technology firm, already recognized for its dominant drone and camera video capabilities, is expanding its professional lineup with this new hardware.
Compared to the original SDR Transmission system, which was capped at 1080p resolution, a 20Mbps bitrate, and a 1.8-mile (3 km) range, the new iteration offers substantial upgrades. In TX mode, the system transmits 4K video at 60 frames per second with HDR support at a 50Mbps bitrate, reaching distances of up to 2.5 miles (4 km). DJI notes that the “SDR” designation stands for software-defined radio.
The company states that the increased reliability allows for production in diverse environments, ranging from open stadiums and dense forests to demanding car-to-car shots and FPV drone operations. A single transceiver can connect to up to eight other units, each capable of remote control. For larger-scale shoots, the system supports configurations of up to five transmitters and 40 receivers working simultaneously.
Beyond monitoring for directors and producers, the system enables camera operators and focus pullers to adjust settings remotely. It features tap-to-switch functionality between camera feeds, eliminating the need for reboots or reconnection searches. Latency is maintained at as low as 35 milliseconds, facilitating responsive control over gimbal movement and focus. Additional assist tools include LUTs, focus peaking, waveforms, and smartphone monitoring. The system also supports PTP control for adjusting capture settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO on compatible cameras.
Although targeted at professional users, the transmission technology shares foundational elements with DJI’s OcuSync drone systems. Pricing for the SDR Transmission 2 transceivers begins at €349 or £309, with a two-pack combo available for €629 or £559. Currently, there is no confirmed availability in the United States, likely due to existing bans on certain DJI products.
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