Sony Electronics has officially announced the launch of two new 4K handheld camcorders i.e. the NXCAM™ HXR-NX800, and XDCAM™ PXW-Z200. According to certain reports, both the camcorders come decked up with artificial intelligence (AI) recognition capabilities, high-precision autofocus (AF), a 20x optical zoom lens, a variable neutral-density (ND) filter, and assignable lens ring. More on the same would reveal how these devices effectively combine portability, functionality, interoperability, and network connectivity for a high-quality and inclusive capture and live streaming experience. Talk about the whole value proposition on a slightly deeper level, we begin from the presence of AI subject recognition, auto focus (AF), and support for 4K 60p/120p recording, features that all come together to facilitate high-quality capture with less manual input. Furthermore, these camcorders bring forth a BIONZ XR™ image processing engine, along with a specialized AI-processing unit for highly accurate, real-time recognition, tracking, and framing of subjects. Beyond that, they also have HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200’s 1.0-inch-type Exmor RS™ CMOS stacked sensor which provides high-sensitivity and low-noise capability. Moving on to Electronic Variable ND Filter, it is in place to help users toggle seamlessly between 1/4 to 1/128 density. Not just that, you can also enable auto-ND, thus allowing the camera to maintain an optimized exposure without the user having to adjust settings. Such an offering becomes especially useful when the user is moving quickly between indoor and outdoor environments. Anyway, joining the mix is a pair of rings for focus and zoom, as well as two dials attached to IRIS/ND Variable, located side-by-side, for effortlessly adjusting exposure, focus, and zoom. The camcorders also have a total of twelve assignable buttons to provide further customization.
Another detail worth a mention here is rooted in how the new cameras are equipped with Sony’s G Lens™ and a 20x optical power zoom that covers 24mm wide angle to 480mm telephoto and a maximum aperture of F2.8-F4.5. These models can achieve 30x (4K) and 40x (HD) zoom using Sony’s Clear Image Zoom technology. Alongside that, we have an active mode which combines electronic correction with optical image stabilization to provide smoother imagery on the go. The devices further feature a newly designed foldable viewfinder, a removable microphone holder, and a foldable 3.5-inch LCD monitor which allows users to check images and focus in bright environments. Instilling further substance across its design, though, is the fact that these models happen to be compact and decked up with exceptionally lightweight body (HXR-NX800: approximately 1.93 kg (4 lb 4.1 oz.), PXW-Z200: approximately 1.96 kg (4 lb 5.1 oz). Complimenting the design upside here is how both HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 provide beneficial integration with Sony’s camera portfolio. Hence, presets like S-Cinetone™, ITU709, 709tone, HLG Live, HLG Mild, and HLG Natural, can be easily adjusted to color match the footage captured on Sony’s other broadcast, Cinema Line, and Alpha™ cameras.
Markedly enough, the new devices also support a wide variety of recording formats including XAVC HS, XAVC S, XAVC SI, and XAVC HS Proxy (up to 16 Mbps). This helps them in facilitating proxy recording, which reduces the burden of data storage and management during post-production and TC/UB recording. The stated offering can come in handy when operating multiple cameras. Among other things, we ought to mention how the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 boast various interfaces, including HDMI Type A, USB Type-C™, LAN, and REMOTE terminals.
“The new HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 build upon Sony’s rich legacy and expertise in broadcast and production and marries it with the latest transformative technology trends including AI and all in one streaming,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions at Sony Electronics. “As we continue to strengthen our portfolio, we’re pleased to combine some of our most sought-after and beneficial features into a handheld form factor to accommodate professionals at all levels with the options and capabilities to make their work more impactful, visually appealing, and efficient.”
