Arri Alexa Classic Problems: 5 Downsides Before You Buy One Used

The quick verdict

The ALEXA Classic’s image is the reason I put up with its awkward parts. Media, startup, accessory mounting, weight, and audio all need more planning than I expect from a small mirrorless camera.

These are the five drawbacks that matter most to me. I would work out the full kit and workflow before buying a cheap used body.

1. SxS cards and readers add cost

An original Classic with the SxS recording module needs compatible recording media and a way to transfer it. I would check the exact card, camera software, codec, and frame rate together.

I would not assume every capacity or card generation works in every mode. Recording time also changes with codec and frame rate, so a claim such as 20 minutes on a card needs those settings attached.

Check the reader connection and computer support before buying used cards. A card that fits the camera is only part of the workflow, and old test prices do not establish what media costs today.

2. It takes time to start shooting

The startup felt slow compared with a smaller camera I could turn on and use quickly. That was easier to accept on a planned set than when something happened unexpectedly.

I would allow for startup, battery changes, and checking the recording setup in the schedule. Keeping a camera powered also has a battery cost, so that is part of the decision.

3. Accessory mounting needs a plan

I found fewer convenient places for my accessories than I wanted. A monitor, arm, or transmitter can mean adding plates and other rig parts.

Match the actual thread, screw length, and mounting surface. I would not assume a screw that seems to fit is suitable for carrying an accessory. The extra hardware also adds weight and more parts to pack.

4. The complete rig is heavy

ARRI lists about 6.3kg, or 13.8lb, for the camera body with the SxS module. A lens, battery, monitoring, and support add to that. The Classic manual separates body weight from a configured camera.

The rig can be tiring to carry and awkward for a quick solo shoot. I would plan a suitable tripod, shoulder setup, or other support around the actual assembled weight.

That changes transport as well as shooting. A low body price does not pay for a stronger tripod or make the camera easier to bring to a location.

5. Audio needs the correct signal path

The single 5-pin XLR connector carries two channels of analog line level audio. It is not an ordinary microphone level 3-pin XLR input, and a passive cable alone does not raise a microphone signal to line level.

Use a suitable mixer, preamp, or recorder with line outputs, then a correctly wired cable for the camera. Microphones that need phantom power require an appropriate source earlier in that chain.

There is no built in microphone for automatic scratch sound. Test and monitor the camera feed, or plan how separate sound will be synchronized. I would not judge the whole audio system from an unsupported claim about poor preamps.

Count the parts before buying a body

• Compatible SxS media and a reader with confirmed computer support.
• A lens, working monitoring, and the correct mounting hardware.
• A matched battery, plate, charger, and power cable.
• Support rated for the complete rig.
• A tested line level audio feed and correctly wired camera cable.

Ask for a long recording test, check the connectors and controls, and establish what repair options exist for the actual used unit. Missing accessories can outweigh an apparent bargain.

My verdict

I can accept these drawbacks when I have time to prepare a scene and want the Classic’s image. For quick solo work, travel, or a small kit, they make it much harder to choose. I would buy a complete tested setup only after pricing the parts and trying the workflow.