ARRIFLEX 16SR2-E (1982)
A stripped-down, economy version of the Arriflex 16SR2 motion picture camera, introduced in 1982 without APEC metering or auto-iris couplings.
Overview
The ARRIFLEX 16SR2-E is a 16 mm motion picture camera produced by ARRI and introduced in 1982 as an economical variant of the 16SR2. It shares the same core design as the 16SR2 but omits the APEC metering system and the couplings required for automatic exposure with auto-iris lenses. The camera features a modified run switch that remains in “standby” mode and includes additional sound insulation in the main tower casting, isolating the movement and gate block via a rubber insert. It supports Standard 16 format and uses the Arri bayonet lens mount. The 16SR2-E is part of the long-running Arriflex 16SR series, which began in 1975.
Specifications
| Exact product name | ARRIFLEX 16 SR II-E |
| Manufacturer | ARRI |
| Product type | Motion picture camera |
| Production years | Introduced in 1982 |
| Format | Standard 16 |
| Lens mount | Arri bayonet lens mount |
| Power | Cameras beginning 1984 are equipped with a green LED battery checker |
| Speed range | 10 – 150 fps (for Highspeed models, not standard SR2-E) |
| Mirror shutter | 172.8º (for factory Super 16 models, not standard SR2-E) |
Design
The 16SR2-E is mechanically identical to the 16SR2, except it lacks the APEC metering system and auto-iris lens couplings. It has a different run switch that defaults to “standby” mode. Additional sound insulation was added to the main tower casting, with a rubber insert isolating the movement and gate block from the rest of the casting to reduce noise transmission.
Context
Introduced in 1982 as the “Economy” model, the 16SR2-E was priced $3,400 lower than the standard 16SR2. At launch, the 16SR2 cost approximately $24,000, making the SR2-E significantly more accessible. It is a variant within the Arriflex 16SR2 product line, and its instruction manual is shared with the 16SR2, with applicable sections depending on the camera’s configuration. NASA adopted the 16SR2 (not the SR2-E) for use on the Space Shuttle program, later retiring them in favor of digital Mini-DV cameras.
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Service Manuals, Schematics & Catalogs
- Catalog (1966) — archive.org
- Catalog — archive.org
- Catalog — archive.org