Recording media is required but not included with this item. Please be sure to purchase recording media for this item.
The Sound Devices PIX 240 Video Recorder provides the ability of QuickTime recording for video cameras with HDMI and HD-SDI inputs. It employs Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHD formats to record videos which offer good picture quality and processing efficiency. It stores recorded videos onto compact flash cards or removable 2.5” solid-state hard drives with UDF format, and the recorded videos can be accessed on systems operating on both Windows and Mac OS. In addition, the PIX 240 records videos which are ideal for editorial workflows such as on-the-fly color grading, video processing, etc.
Supporting HD-SDI and HDMI v1.3 input signals up to 1080i/p, the recorder provides simultaneous HD-SDI and HDMI outputs. It includes a tunable highly accurate time code generator and reader with genlock output which offers proper synchronization between the input and outputs. Based on 7-series digital audio recorders, the recorder features high-bandwidth inputs that are mic/line switchable and include limiters, high-pass filters, and 48V phantom power for high quality audio with low-noise. It supports AES3 digital audio using 2 XLR connectors which are capable of accepting up to 4 digital audio inputs. In addition, the PIX 240 includes an external eSATAp connector for direct, powered connection to large SATA storage volumes.
Featuring hardware-based video scalers, the recorder facilitates real-time conversion among video formats. Supporting conversion between interlaced and progressive, it allows frame rate conversion of videos formats with no loss in quality and 3:2 pull down removal to record 24p from 60i signals. It features large, illuminated controls which make record and play functions easy to access. Using a side panel rotary control and 4 front-panel buttons, the PIX 240 allows quick access to various menu options such as selection between embedded HDMI, embedded HD-SDI, or balanced audio, format selection while conversion, etc.
The PIX 240 includes a 5” LCD display which displays images with 800 x 480 resolution and provides immediate confirmation of recording, playback, audio metering, and setup menu selections. It supports input audio source selection between embedded HDMI, embedded HD-SDI, or balanced audio and features a LANC connector for connection with a LANC controller for control over start and record options. Featuring FireWire 800 and USB 3.0 (USB 2.0 backward-compatible) connectors, the PIC-Caddy also includes an eSATAp connection which offers drive powering and 3 Gb/s transfer rate over a single cable.
Built using light weight, metalized, molded carbon fiber chassis, the recorder is suitable for outdoor use, and with an advanced thermal design, it keeps the unit cool in extreme environments. It can be powered using an external DC power (10-18 V) or 2 Sony L-type batteries, and also acts as a charger for the battery inserted, when the recorder is not in use and plugged into an external supply. It is compatible with an external audio mixer or digital audio recorders which extends the flexibility of the recorder's on-board inputs and enhances audio input/output control. In addition, the video recorder comes with multi-voltage compatible XL-WPH3 AC adapter.
Note! Media (flash cards & SSD) is not included in the box but is a recommended accessory.
| Inputs | HDMI v1.3, HD-SDI |
| Input Video Resolutions |
HDMI v1.3: 480i, 525i, 720p, 1080i, 1080p HD-SDI: 480i, 525i, 720p, 1080i, 1080p |
| Outputs |
HDMI v1.3 HD-SDI 3:2 pull down removal to record 24p from 60i signal |
| Conversion | Up/down/cross of 480i, 525i, 720p, 1080i, 1080p resolutions |
| File Formats |
Apple ProRes 422 (Proxy/LT/422/422HQ) Avid DNxHD 36, 145, 220 Mbps, 8 and 10bit .mov Quicktime file wrapper |
| Time Code / Sync |
Internal ambient Clockit time code generator with Genlock output, internal battery to hold time code LTC input, output on LEMO, ambient Clockit compatible Time code over HD-SDI Tri-level sync out, Genlock Word clock out |
| Audio Input / Output |
Premium microphone preamps, on balanced XLR, mic/line selectable with 48V Phantom, limiters, high pass -128 dBu input noise, 115 dB dynamic range A/D 2 AES3 digital inputs (2 channels) 2-Channel, line level balanced output on 5-pin XLR Embedded audio on HDMI (2 channels) Embedded audio on HD-SDI (8 channels) High output, low-noise headphone amp |
| Mechanical |
Large, illuminated record control buttons Metalized, molded carbon fiber chassis with external whisper-quiet cooling fan |
| Power | 10-18 V DC on hirose 4-pin or 2 Sony L-mount batteries |
| Display | 5" (12.7cm) 800 x 480 pixel panel, 140° viewing angle |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Reviewed by 4 customers
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Comments about Sound Devices PIX 240 Video Recorder:
I shoot event production and have many-a-camera, including P2 and SxS based cameras. Recording direct to ProRes with the PIX 240 makes things way smoother in post, especially since I can use SATA for transfer. I love having real audio on my camera when using this. I don't use timecode, but it is nice if I ever do need it. I now rely on being able to record at a different rate than what my camera can support. That is a huge benefit since many of my customers only need 720p (or even SD). Menu system is simple. I wish my camera's menus were this straight-forward.
For over-the-shoulder, the PIX is too bulky and power-hungry to be helpful. For tripod-stuff, the PIX hits the spot, especially with the monitoring features just put in.
While I don't use it for every setup, I have used it on every production since I got it.
Pros
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Comments about Sound Devices PIX 240 Video Recorder:
I've tried this thing on the F3, as well as, the EX3. I know, the EX3 will really have no advantage with 10bit... but I thought I would try out the recorder in a relatively safe situation. Nope... just as with previous shoots - the output is upper field... and when you go into the camera and change 'record to 1080p/30' the on board processor does a really poor job... and you get all sorts of fun aliasing and artifacting in the image.Also, be wary of digital hits, because they come up more often than not with the recorder.Just thought I would post this so no one wastes their hard earned [$] on this paper weight... Sound Devices should just stick to what they do best... sound.
Pros
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Comments about Sound Devices PIX 240 Video Recorder:
The Sound Devices Pix 240 is a really great addition to our production equipment list and a fantastic replacement for our old Firestore. The only drawback is that it does not trigger with the camera record unless there is a tape in the camera. This is counter to what we need during run and gun news gathering if we are not archiving to tape. Other than that it is one of the best purchases I've made.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sound Devices PIX 240 Video Recorder:
I use the pix with a sony f3 (non-slog).
The monitor does not provide a wide viewing angle which is not convenient if you have others trying to see your framing.
It is a relatively lightweight device, even with two sony L type batteries mounted.
I have performed some tests and to my eye, the improvement of image quality is marginal over that of the in-camera 35mbs recording. Certainly more noticeable when there is movement or panning in frame. Given the choice, I would get the s-log update first.
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