The much-anticipated Gemini 4:4:4 digital recorder from Convergent Design could begin hitting the streets within a week. Today we got a chance to play with one unit featuring the latest firmware (intercepted on its way to the Createasphere show in Burbank this afternoon). Here's what we learned about the feature set of the Gemini that is about to be released.

When the Gemini 4:4:4 is initially released not all features will be enabled. Those features that have been fully tested will be included from the outset and can be seen in the list below. (We're glad to see that 4:4:4 Record/Playback and viewing on a LUT-corrected 422 output are both functional from the start, as many of our customers are buying this unit to go with their Sony PMW-F3 cameras.)

Even as the first Gemini recorders are leaving the factory, testing on other features will continue, and once they have been proven reliable they will be included in future firmware upgrades. Some features will require a paid upgrade (3D and ARRIRAW), but these should not come as a surprise as they were always intended to cost extra.