SmallHD has recently unveiled the OLED 16, a 16-inch 4K production monitor that promises to revolutionize the way we view and work with video content. This new addition to the SmallHD OLED series is a game-changer for DITs (Digital Imaging Technicians) and DPs (Director of Photography), offering a combination of cutting-edge technology and practical features that were previously out of reach for many. In my opinion, the OLED 16 is a significant step forward in the world of video production, and it's worth taking a closer look at why.
A Reference-Grade Display
What makes the OLED 16 truly stand out is its reference-grade display capabilities. With a 3840 x 2160 (UHD) resolution and true 10-bit color, this monitor delivers stunning visuals with infinite contrast and true blacks. The contrast ratio of above 1,000,000:1 and a minimum black point of 0.005 nits ensure that shadows are rendered with incredible detail, and the absence of haloing is a welcome feature for colorists and DITs. Personally, I think this level of detail and accuracy is crucial for any professional video production, and it's a significant improvement over traditional LCD monitors.
However, there is a catch. The color gamut coverage is a bit confusing. SmallHD lists 100% DCI-P3 and 80% Rec.2020 coverage, but the launch text cites 99% DCI-P3 and 97% Rec.2020. This discrepancy is a concern, and I would recommend treating the lower published spec-sheet number as the conservative reference until SmallHD clarifies the issue. Nonetheless, full DCI-P3 coverage on a true 10-bit OLED is still a significant selling point for on-set look management.
Rugged Hardware and Practical Design
The OLED 16 is not just about visuals; it's also about durability and practicality. The unibody chassis, machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensures that the monitor can withstand the rigors of on-set use. At 10.4 lbs, it's a bit heavy, but the design is well-thought-out, with multiple attachment points for power and accessories, and self-standing feet for easy setup. The monitor is also built to mount on DIT carts, DP stands, or at Video Village, making it a versatile tool for any production environment.
One thing that immediately stands out is the comprehensive connectivity options. The OLED 16 carries four 12G-SDI in and out, one HDMI 2.0 in and out, a 4-pin XLR power input, and a range of USB ports. The inclusion of an RP-SMA WiFi antenna connector and a 3.5mm headphone output is a thoughtful touch, and the separate RJ45 ports for Ethernet and GPI are a welcome addition for cable management.
Dial Control and PageOS Toolkit
The most exciting feature of the OLED 16 is the four machined dials along the lower front of the monitor. These dials provide direct, customizable control over PageOS, SmallHD's page-based monitoring environment. In my opinion, this is a game-changer for DITs and DPs, as it allows for quick and intuitive access to the tools they need most. The dials can be mapped to any tool in the PageOS toolkit, making it a highly flexible and user-friendly feature.
PageOS 6, the latest iteration of the toolkit, offers a range of professional tools, including Waveform, Vectorscope, EL Zone, Multiview, False Color, and LUT workflows. The addition of a more granular color pipe and downstream LUTs is a significant improvement, and the EL Zone system, developed by Ed Lachman, ASC, is a unique and innovative feature. The integration of Pomfort Livegrade and Calman for calibration is also a welcome addition, making the OLED 16 a true reference-grade display.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the SmallHD OLED 16 is a significant step forward in the world of video production. Its reference-grade display capabilities, rugged hardware, and practical design make it a must-have tool for any DIT or DP. While the price point may be a barrier for some, the OLED 16 offers a level of detail and accuracy that was previously out of reach for many. Personally, I think it's a game-changer, and I can't wait to see how it transforms the way we work on set.
