The Collaborative Design
This is the QAV-S 2 frame, which has been designed in collaboration with Johnny FPV. If you don’t know who he is, he’s a legendary FPV pilot who’s had a real impact on how filmmakers see FPV drones as cinematic tools. Just in case you’re wondering, no, if you buy this frame, you will not fly like Johnny FPV. However, it is pretty cool to think that your equipment is capable of getting those amazing cinematic shots, it’s just up to you to go out there and get them.
The Build Components
For this build, I’m going to be using an Argus Pro 55 amp F7 stack from Axis Flying, and these new 2307 JohnnyFPV edition motors from Lumenier. I’m super excited about these motors because, usually when it comes to 5-inch quads, we talk about whether we should go with 2207s or 2306s and each has its own advantages. But by going with 2307, we should have more than enough power and thrust to lift the cameras and batteries we want, and the 1750 KV should give us some nice smooth flights with 6s batteries.
Frame Design and Features
In this video, I’m going to give you guys a real close look at this frame and we’re going to talk about some of the innovations and design choices that have been made. There will be timestamps if you prefer to skip around, but before we jump in, please take a second to make sure you’re subscribed and hit that notification bell, because I will have more content about this drone that you’ll want to see.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
Upon receiving the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame kit, one cannot help but admire the attention to detail in the packaging. The carbon fiber material exudes quality and durability, with a smooth, coated finish that adds to its appeal. The six-millimeter thick arms are sturdy and robust, ensuring longevity and resilience during flights.
Design Features and Components
The top plate of the frame proudly displays the JohnnyFPV logo, adding a touch of style to the overall design. The inclusion of machined aluminum parts further enhances the structural integrity of the frame, particularly the X plate that securely holds the arms in place. The hardware organization is commendable, with clearly labeled screws and nuts for ease of assembly.
Notable features include two rear plates for accommodating different antenna setups, whether for a dual or single antenna configuration. Additionally, the frame kit includes two camera plates to support both 20mm and 19mm cameras, offering versatility for various filming preferences. The inclusion of a smiley face design adds a charming aesthetic element to the frame.
Accessories and Functionality
The Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame kit also includes two molded plastic GoPro mounts, a battery mount, and foam landing feet. The choice of foam landing feet over TPU arm guards is an intriguing one, as foam feet provide adequate protection without adding unnecessary weight to the frame. This design decision reflects a commitment to balancing performance and functionality without compromising on weight efficiency.
Overall, the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame stands out as a promising cinematic drone platform for 2024, offering a combination of durability, versatility, and design aesthetics that cater to the needs of aerial filmmakers and enthusiasts alike.
The Build Quality
You’ll notice that there’s no TPU in this frame kit, which is pretty rare, because most frame kits that are on the market right now have a pile of TPU parts. Instead of TPU, Lumenier has gone for aluminum carbon fiber, where possible, molded plastic, and they’ve really chosen to use premium parts in this frame kit.
Components and Accessories
With the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5″ frame, you get two very nice Lumenier battery straps. These are incredibly strong, so you’re not going to break them. Another nice touch are the long battery leads which are intended for use with the captured XT60 connector that goes out the back of the frame.
Flexibility and Ease of Use
I noticed that these battery leads are longer than usual, which gives you maximum flexibility to fly with different size batteries without getting the lead close to the props. This is ideal for those who prefer the lead to go out the back of the quad, as it avoids interference with the props during flight.
Instruction Manual
If you’ve never built up a Lumenier frame before, the instruction manual included in this kit will be a pleasant surprise. It features actual instructions written in English by people who actually speak English, making the assembly process much more straightforward and enjoyable. The manual is nice and detailed, providing clear steps and explanations for each part of the build.
Building the Frame
I opened up my hardware bag and got everything ready for step one, and I’m going to start building, so let’s get to it. It’s build time. I realize that you can’t see all the details on a time lapse, but don’t worry, I’m going to give you some close-up shots in just a minute.
An electric driver would make this process much faster, but hey, I love my hand tools. I just like to hand tighten to the exact torque that I want. I’m not in a hurry. Drone building time is my happy time.
Tips for Assembly
Here are a few tips when you’re putting this frame together. Just take your time, grab a beverage of your choice, and enjoy the process. Be careful with those screws because you get the exact amount of screws you need for the build, and you do not want a critical screw falling into the carpet.
Also, pay attention to those diagrams in the instruction manual because sometimes the written instructions don’t specify whether you should use a button head screw or a counter-sunk screw. The instruction manual has you install the top plate in step six, then mentions the air unit parts in step seven.
Assembly Experience
I ended up doing a dry assembly of the frame first because I did have a problem with a missing M2.5 8mm screw. I wasn’t sure which rear plate I was going to use. Normally I’d go for a rear-mounted GPS, but since we do have the option to mount a rear camera, I really wanted to take advantage of that unique feature of this frame.
Build Quality and Materials
This is the first time I’ve put together a frame with Lumenier’s X Lock system, but everything goes together smoothly. The detailed instruction manual is very nice to have, even if you’re a veteran drone builder. The carbon feels great; it’s nice and smooth with no sharp edges. The machined aluminum parts work great and look fantastic. The copper accents against the black really elevate the overall aesthetic of the frame.
X Lock System
One of the main features of the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame is the X Lock system. It’s a simple yet ingenious design that holds the arms securely in place. The aluminum X piece combined with two aluminum wedges on either side ensures a tight and secure fit. Swapping out an arm is a breeze just remove one screw and loosen the X Lock. This design not only provides convenience but also adds to the overall durability of the frame.
Handling and Performance
Once you complete your build, you’ll immediately notice how solid and well-balanced this frame feels in your hand. The premium materials used in the construction of the frame contribute to its stability and reliability. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or a beginner, the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame offers a smooth and responsive flying experience. The frame’s design also ensures that your stack screws do not go through the carbon fiber arms, further enhancing its durability.
The Design of the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 Frame
I think that’s a good design choice because it means the vibrations from the motors which are transferred through the arms won’t be transferred to your flight controller as easily, and it should make the drone a little bit easier to tune.
The Rear Assembly Innovation
Another big innovation with this drone is the rear assembly. It is made up of four aluminum pieces and the captured XT60 connector. There are two standoffs and two side plates which give you three tilt options. Depending on how I want my camera angle to be, I might tilt it back like this if I were flying with GPS, or change the angle if I were flying with a rear camera on the back.
The Rear XT60 Connector Placement
When I first saw this, I wasn’t quite sure how I felt about putting the XT60 on the actual rear plate, as most frames will put it up front or in the rear. However, after having the frame put together, it makes a lot of sense. A front XT60 would interfere with the GoPro when tilted, while a rear XT60 would interfere with the battery mounting space. By putting the XT60 on the rear assembly, there is ample space for mounting a battery. The flexibility of this rear assembly is truly awesome.
Versatile Rear Assembly Plates
The rear assembly comes with five different plates: a standard plate if you don’t want to mess around with GPS, two plates intended for mounting GPS units, and two plates intended for mounting a rear camera. This versatility allows for customization based on the specific needs of the user.
Rear Camera Mount
These camera plates are thicker to be able to support the weight of a camera back here. You get two different plates one for a DJI O3 Air Unit and one for a system with dual antennas. Having a rear-mounted camera option out of the box sets this frame apart. Mounting something like an Insta 360 Go on an arm can provide unique shots, such as filming the drone flying through unique scenery.
Optimized for DJI O3 AIr Unit
This frame is optimized for the DJI O3 Air Unit and comes with aluminum standoffs for mounting the air unit. The soft mounting system for the DJI O3 camera ensures stability. The aluminum mounts for the air unit are preferred over 3D prints for their strength, simplicity, and better cooling. Cable routing is also made convenient with a niche underneath.
FPV Camera Mount
The FPV camera mount uses two carbon plates bolted onto an aluminum side plate and is soft-mounted with rubber grommets. This setup allows for adjusting the camera angle up and down, as well as moving it forward and backward. Having the camera positioned towards the rear provides protection in case of a crash.
Optimizing Camera Placement for Cinematic Shots
For those looking to capture stunning cinematic shots with the DJI O3 camera, the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame offers the perfect solution. By strategically placing the camera forward on the frame, users can ensure that propellers do not interfere with their shot composition. The rubber grommets on the frame are designed to accommodate cameras of different thicknesses, with the option to flip them for additional spacing.
Secure Installation for Reliable Performance
When installing the rubber grommets into the carbon camera plates, users are advised to exercise caution to avoid breakage, as there are no spare grommets included. A small driver can be used for this purpose, ensuring a secure and stable mounting for the camera. The included 8mm screws are designed to provide just the right amount of dampening, but users have the option to swap them out for a firmer mount if desired.
Versatility for Different Camera Options
The Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame also includes an extra set of camera plates to accommodate a 19mm camera, making it compatible with a range of camera options, including the DJI O3 and similar models. For those using antennas such as the DJ3, it is recommended to install the rubber grommet into the carbon fiber plate first, followed by securely passing the UFL connectors through the designated hole to prevent any loose components during flight.
Protection and Stability for GoPro Mounts
Users of the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame also benefit from molded plastic GoPro mounts, offering additional protection and stability for mounting their cameras. While these mounts may require some effort to install, they provide a secure and reliable platform for capturing cinematic footage without compromising on quality.
Installation Challenges
You have to push it down and then forward, and it will snap into place securely. But take your time too much force could damage the plastic or even crack the carbon plate, and you do need to install that carbon spacer on top top of the plate, not underneath it once you get this mount installed.
You want to make sure that the hole for the screw is perfectly lined up with the Press nut in the carbon plate. If you don’t, sending that screw in perfectly straight you’ll be putting sideways pressure on the press nut and it could pop out of the carbon and you could even strip out a screw.
Mixed Feelings on Camera Mounts
To be honest with you guys, I have some mixed feelings about these camera mounts. They’re simple: I think they look nice and I do think that molded plastic mounts can be stronger than TPU mounts. Also, I think it’s going to be awesome to get some creative shots with this rear camera mount back there, but, and there is a butt, they can be such a pain to install.
I really had to take my time to get this mount to fit into the plate with that spacer. It was really difficult and that could be a real disadvantage if I wanted to remove it and install it quickly. For example, let’s say I wanted to use this rear camera mount, and I need to move my battery all the way to the front in order to balance center of gravity.
Camera Mount Design
In theory, the single screw design of this camera mount should mean that it’s easy to remove and install, but in practice it can be really difficult to get these to pop into the carbon plate. Let me know what you guys think about these molded plastic lock-in camera mounts, as opposed to say, a standard TPU Mount, which one do you think is better.
Innovative Features
I do think that having a rear GoPro Mount as well as the one up front is a very cool idea, and it sets this Frame apart from a lot of the other frames that are out there. Also, the xlock system is super innovative and I wouldn’t be surprised if you see a bunch of frame manufacturers copying this design in the next few years.
Style and Quality
I love the style of this Frame. You can really tell that it was born from real hardcore FPV Pilots. They don’t add a bunch of bling that you don’t need, like TPU landing feet and those plastic motor guards that break in a crash anyway, but they do give you a generous portion of quality and innovation.
Room for Improvement
This Frame isn’t perfect, and there are a few small details that Lumenier could have done a little bit better. For example, they could have been a little more generous with their hardware. They pretty much give you exactly the hardware that you need to complete the build, but that means that if the person in charge of filling up that hardware bag makes a mistake, you could have a real problem.
Hardware Kit Concerns
I did have a problem with the missing screw. My Hardware bag had an extra M2 8 mm screw instead of the two M2.5 8 mm screws that you need to install this rear plate. Fortunately, I had some extra 9mm M2.5 screws which actually fit the rear plate a little bit better. I’m sure this is because I’m working with an early sample – and it won’t be an issue with the final production units but be sure to check your hardware bag. Luminer support is really great and they’ll definitely take care of you. If something like that were to happen, my suggestion for Lumenier would be to include an extra type of each screw in the hardware kit. That way, a single missing screw won’t keep you grounded.
Weight Limitations
Another thing I wonder about is how much weight you might be able to put on this rear camera plate. For example, can you use a full GoPro, or are you limited to something like a GoPro bones or a naked GoPro? The reason that I say that is all that weight is going to be supported by these M2.5 screws, which are going through an XT60 connector. It does seem super solid, it’s not going anywhere, but I wonder if that could be an issue in the future if you’re using a heavy camera.
Hardware Details
Another small detail is that the hardware they give you is not pre-read locked. I only mention this because some other frame kits do provide pre-read locked screws, so it would have been nice to see this here because there are so many aluminum parts. It’s not a big deal, but I would recommend using thread lock when you put your frame kit together with any screws that go into aluminum. This frame is full of premium materials and it has some very cool design innovations.
Design and Build Quality
The Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame is a top-of-the-line drone platform designed for cinematic purposes. The designers at Lumenier have spared no expense in ensuring that this frame is built to last and perform exceptionally. The aluminum rear structure provides strength and durability, while the xlock system ensures that all components are securely held in place. Unlike other frames that focus on unnecessary decorative elements, the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame prioritizes functionality and practicality.
Performance and Flight Characteristics
When it comes to performance, the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame shines above the competition. The frame’s design allows for smooth and stable flight, making it the perfect platform for capturing breathtaking cinematic footage. The frame’s aerodynamic design and lightweight construction contribute to its agility in the air, while the xlock system keeps all components secure during high-speed maneuvers. Whether you’re an experienced pilot or a beginner looking to dive into the world of cinematic drones, the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame will not disappoint.
Build and Assembly
One of the standout features of the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame is its ease of assembly. The frame kit comes with clear instructions and all the necessary hardware, making it a breeze to put together. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or new to the world of drones, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of assembling this frame. Additionally, the frame’s design allows for easy access to components, making maintenance and upgrades a hassle-free experience.
The Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame is not only a visually stunning piece of equipment but also a high-performing drone platform. With its innovative X Lock system, premium materials, and excellent handling, this frame is a top contender for the title of the best cinematic drone platform for 2024. Whether you’re looking to capture breathtaking aerial footage or simply enjoy an exciting flying experience, the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame is a worthy investment for drone enthusiasts of all levels.
The Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame is a premium cinematic drone platform that exceeds expectations in terms of design, performance, and ease of assembly. With its durable construction, stable flight characteristics, and user-friendly build process, it is no wonder that many consider it to be the best cinematic drone platform for 2024. Whether you’re a professional filmmaker or an enthusiast looking to elevate your aerial photography and videography game, the Lumenier QAV-S 2 JohnnyFPV SE 5 frame is a worthy investment that will not disappoint.
