Sony PXW-Z280 & PXW-Z190 Camcorders Announced for NAB 2018
NAB Show 2018: In addition to the Sony FS5 Mark II, Sony also officially announced the new PXW-Z280 and PXW-Z190 camcorders for NAB 2018.
Press Release from Sony Pro:
Sony’s PXW-Z280, World’s first 4K 3-chip Camcorder with new 1/2-type Exmor R CMOS Image Sensors Redefines Handheld Production Image Quality and Workflow
The XDCAM Model Has 4K 50p/60p, 4:2:2 10bit, HDR capabilities, supports direct-to-air broadcasting with advanced network features
Sony is expanding its XDCAM line of professional camcorders with its new flagship handheld PXW-Z280. The new model boasts three 1/2-type Exmor R CMOS sensors, ideal for high sensitivity of F12 (59.94p), long zoom ratio and deep depth of field, ideal for news gathering. Its 3-chip sensors and 4K 4:2:2 10-bit adds vivid imagery and delicate color gradation. Enhanced network features, versatile formats and interfaces enable direct-to-air workflows, making this model ideal for broadcasters, production companies and documentary creation.
The PXW-Z280 is designed for easy use, with features such as advanced Face Detection Autofocus (AF) function. Users can select “Face Priority AF,” convenient for automatic face detection and optimization, or the newly introduced “Face Only AF” for more demanding 4K shooting applications. The camera detects a specific person automatically, keeping them in pin-sharp focus. A 17x zoom lens and three independent control rings with end-stop allow manual control of focus, zoom, and iris for quick and precise adjustment.
Sony’s unique Electronic Variable ND filter allows greater exposure control by varying the density of the ND filter during shooting while maintaining resolution and depth of the field. The camera also supports S-Log3 and Sony’s Instant HDR workflow.
The PXW-Z280 includes advanced network features to enable a secure, seamless wireless Electric News Gathering (ENG) workflow.
Based on the technology developed for Sony’s cloud-based ENG service, “XDCAM air,” the new camcorder uses Sony’s Quality of Service (QoS) for live distribution of high-quality broadcast content using a Dual Link connection multiplexing two cellular networks, assigning Planning Metadata and browsing and getting clips to and from via the cloud. In addition, an integrated Wi-Fi module and Ethernet connector enable hybrid Wireless/Wired data transfer, remote control and monitoring from devices such as a smartphone, tablet or PC.
A range of formats including XAVC Intra/Long, MPEG HD422, MPEG HD and DVCAM are available to support established workflows. The camera records to SxS cards, and SD cards with optional adapters. Four-channel audio recording with independent volume dials enable precise control of external input audio and an attached MI shoe microphone. Dual MI shoes provide cable-less connection with Sony’s UWP-D series wireless microphone receiver and simultaneous use of a video light at the same time. 12G-SDI enables 4K 50p/60p transfer between long distances, using only one BNC cable.
The PXW-Z280 camcorder is planned to be available in July 2018 for $6,950 in the U.S. and $8,695 in Canada.
Sony’s New PXW-Z190 XDCAM Handheld Camcorder Delivers 4K 50p/60p Imagery with Three 1/3-type Exmor R CMOS Image Sensors
Integrated 25x zoom lens and advanced Face Detection Autofocus function in a compact body offer optimal choice for corporate, events and education
Sony’s PXW-Z190 is a 4K compact camcorder with enhanced usability for independent shooters in corporate, event production and education applications. The camcorder’s newly developed three 1/3-type Exmor R CMOS image sensors capture RGB light independently and delivers 4K 50p/60p imagery with high resolution and a wide range of gradation. 4:2:2 10-bit ensures vivid and rich color content in HD.
The new model incorporates a 25x optical zoom lens to cover a wide focal range for multiple shooting requirements, with three independent lens rings to support intuitive operation. Using optical zoom lens with Digital Extender in an HD mode, a 50x zoom equivalent image without any picture degradation can be captured thanks to its 4K resolution sensor. Advanced Face Detection Auto Focus (AF) features include the “Face Priority AF” and newly added “Face Only AF,” which help to ensure a specific person within a group automatically stays in pin-sharp focus, ideal for shooting interviews or lectures.
Sony’s Electronic Variable ND filter ensures greater exposure control by smoothly varying the density of the ND filter during shooting while maintaining resolution and depth of field.
The PXW-Z190 combines advanced usability and network solutions for enhanced workflow efficiency. It is HLG compatible to support Sony’s Instant HDR workflow, delivering beautiful HDR content quickly, without the need for additional color grading. In addition, “Content Browser Mobile” software allows the camera to be operated remotely via smartphone. With an optional license, the camcorder can be used with Sony’s cloud-based ENG service, XDCAM air. File transfer and streaming is also possible using a wired or wireless LAN or LTE modem connection, enabling immediate editing and live monitoring.
Dual MI shoes enable the use of a wireless microphone and video light at the same time to achieve further flexibility. When using Sony’s UWP-D series wireless microphone, audio signals can be delivered without cabling – eliminating the risk of accidental disconnection and battery loss of the wireless audio receiver. Enhanced 4-channel audio recording is supported by a combination of 2 XLR inputs and audio input via an MI shoe.
The camera records to widely available SD memory cards, with dual card slots allowing simultaneous, relay and back-up recording.
The PXW-Z190 covers a wide range of main formats including XAVC-Long, DVCAM. In addition to these formats, MPEG HD 422 and MPEG HD are available with an optional license. Proxy 1080i up to 9Mbps can be used for 4K and HD simultaneous recording. Other features include 3G-SDI output and a remote terminal for compact multi-camera operation using Sony’s MCX-500 production switcher and RM-30BP controller.
The new PXW-Z190 camcorder is planned to be available in September 2018 with pricing below $4,000 in the US and $5,200 in Canada. For more information, please visit www.sony.com/pro.
