Aputure VS-2 FineHD: Now Takes 4K

Earlier this year when we reviewed the Aputure VS-2 FineHD HDMI monitor, one of the downsides we found was that the monitor could only accept up to an HD signal from your camera.

The trick with that is that some of the 4K cameras like the Sony A6300 and A6500 evidently could not down-sample to HD on their HDMI output port and record to 4k internally at the same time. So this monitor just was not a good fit for those cameras.

The Panasonic GH4 could down-sample to HD and record 4K internally but autofocus performance slows when doing this. Not a deal-breaker for everyone, but not ideal.

But now, with the new, free firmware available as of this week, the VS-2 FineHD can now take a UHD (3840x2160 up to 30p) signal. Of course it still only displays it as HD, but this solves a big problem for those shooting 4K cameras. Thanks Aputure!

We'd love to see the same thing for the new VS-5 monitor which I'm in the process of reviewing!

Aputure VS-2 FineHD Monitor: See When You Shoot!

The tiny 3 inch screens on most cameras vary in quality but the fact remains that it is hard to compose, focus and expose your video in such a small space. My eyesight is 20/20 but with large sensor cameras, I am often surprised at how often I miss focus when I rely on my viewfinder or 3" screen. I'm also surprised and disappointed at how often I miss distracting elements in my composition simply because I couldn't see it in the EVF or screen.

That's a big part of the value of external monitors like the Aputure VS-2 FineHD. This is a 1920x1200 resolution HDMI monitor that is very reasonably priced and nicely appointed for its $299 price. The kit comes with everything you need to use it right out of the box including a friction arm, 2 HDMI cables, battery, charger, sun hood, and more.

For the last year, I’ve been using a 7 inch HDMI monitor/recorder (Atomos Shogun) which has helped me work more quickly and shoot with more confidence and fewer missed shots.

Aputure was kind enough to send us this unit before they start shipping generally.