Video Chat with a Pro Video Expert - Live

Sony PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera

BH #SOPMWF55 • MFR #PMW-F55
Sony PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera
Key Features
  • 8.9MP Super 35mm CMOS Image Sensor
  • Internal 4K/2K/HD Recording
  • Electronic Global Shutter
  • Highly Modular Design
The Sony PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera features an 8.9MP Super 35mm image sensor capable of capturing 4K, 2K, and HD resolution video in a variety of formats via the camera's internal recorder. The F55 is among the first digital motion picture cameras with a global shutter, which completely eliminates motion skew and other rolling shutter distortions. Sony has designed the F55 as the foundation of an exceptionally versatile and modular system.
More Details
No Longer Available
Ask an Expert
800.606.6969

Sony PMW-F55 Overview

The Sony PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera features an 8.9MP Super 35mm image sensor capable of capturing 4K, 2K, and HD resolution video in a variety of formats via the camera's internal recorder. The F55 is among the first digital motion picture cameras with a global shutter, which completely eliminates motion skew and other rolling shutter distortions. Sony has designed the F55 as the foundation of an exceptionally versatile and modular system.

Optional components of the F55 system include bolt-on recording units, a series of digital viewfinders, and camera support rigs, all sold separately. Notably, the AXS-R5 recorder (sold separately) can be mounted onto the rear of the F55, enabling 4K and 2K 16-bit raw recording and high-speed frame rates up to 240 fps in 2K (240 fps 2K and 60 fps 4K/2K will require a free firmware upgrade). In keeping with Sony's mandate on versatility, the F55 has a native FZ mount which will provide an interface for Sony's SCL-Z18x140 auto focus servo zoom lens (sold separately) as well as a wide range of lens adapters, such as the included PL mount adapter.

Many digital sensors can match and even surpass traditional motion picture film for resolution and low-light image quality, but with approximately 14.3 stops of dynamic range, film has maintained an advantage over most digital sensors. However, the F55's exposure latitude is rated at 14 stops of dynamic range, for truly filmlike rendering of highlights and shadows. Moreover, the F55 incorporates the same color filter array technology used in Sony's flagship F65, for a color gamut that is even wider than motion picture film.

Onboard 4K recording requires high data rate recording media, and the F55 will use Sony's newly developed SxS PRO+ memory cards. A 128GB card will provide enough space for approximately 40 minutes of 4K video in the XAVC Intra 422 format. SxS PRO+ cards will also allow onboard recording of 2K video at up to 180 frames per second (requires a free firmware upgrade) as well as SStP 4:4:4 at 440 Mb/s when set to RGB.

8.9MP Super 35mm CMOS Image Sensor
With 8.9 effective megapixels (11.6 total MP), the Sony 4K CMOS sensor captures a true 4K 4096 x 2160 DCI-standard cinema image. The sensor approximates the size of traditional 2-perf, Super 35mm motion picture film, allowing cinematographers to use their favorite lenses on the F55 without a significant disparity in apparent angle of view.
Internal 4K/2K/HD Recording
The F55 CineAlta camera incorporates high-speed SxS PRO+ memory card recording that allows the choice of 8-bit MPEG-2 HD422 at 50 Mb/s, 10-bit XAVC 2K/HD at 100 Mb/s, SR Codec 10-bit MPEG4 SStP at 220/440/880 Mb/s, and XAVC 4K/QFHD at 300 Mb/s. All formats can be recorded at a range of interlace and progressive frame rates. Some recording settings will require a free firmware upgrade.
Electronic Global Shutter
Traditional CMOS sensors employ what is commonly known as a "rolling shutter." The F55 is among the first digital motion picture cameras with a global shutter, which completely eliminates motion skew and other rolling shutter distortions.
Highly Modular Design
In addition to the AXS-R5 recorder, a digital interface on the F55 allows for a variety of optional viewfinders. The DVF-EL100 is a 0.7" OLED viewfinder with 1280 x 720 resolution. The DVF-L350 is a 3.5" LCD viewfinder with 960 x 540 resolution, and the eyepiece flips up for direct monitoring. The DVF-L700 is a 7" LCD viewfinder with 1920 x 1080 resolution for monitoring Full HD pixel-for-pixel. Other modular components include the optional Sony shoulder rig, which features industry-standard rosettes on both sides for quick and easy attachment of third-party handgrips and other accessories.
Optional AXS-R5 "Bolt-On" Recorder
The AXS-R5 recorder, sold separately, is designed to dock onto the rear of the PMW-F55 to enable 4K and 2K resolution video recording in 16-bit raw. The AXS-R5 also facilitates high-speed frame rates of up to 240 fps in 2K and simultaneous raw + onboard SxS recording. The recorder uses Sony's newly developed AXSM memory cards, which are compatible with an optional USB 3.0 reader (AXS-CR1). Raw files can be screened using Sony's free RAW Viewer software.
Native FZ Mount and PL Mount Adapter
The F55 is designed to accommodate a wide range of lenses. With the PL mount adapter, you can take advantage of acclaimed cine optics from Angénieux, Canon, Zeiss, Cooke, Fujifilm, Leica, and more. Slip off the supplied PL mount adapter to reveal the native FZ mount with an 18mm flange focal distance. The FZ mount provides an interface for native FZ lenses like Sony's SCL-Z18X140 autofocus servo zoom lens, or a range of adapters for still lenses including Canon EF, Canon FD, Nikon F, Leica M, and more.
Dynamic Range Rated at 14 Stops
The ability to render a range of exposure values from deepest shadows to brightest highlights is a crucial test of any digital camera. The F55 is capable of an impressive 14 stops of exposure latitude, low-light sensitivity, and low noise in the blacks. The digital sensor's dynamic range approaches that of traditional motion picture film.
Wider Color Gamut than Film
The F55 incorporates the same advanced color filter array technology as Sony's flagship F65, for a color gamut that is even wider than motion picture film.
SxS Pro+ Media Cards
Onboard recording of XAVC 4K and 180 fps XAVC 2K/HD requires high data rate recording media. The F55 will use Sony's 64 and 128GB SxS PRO+ memory cards. A 128GB card will provide enough space for approximately 40 minutes of 4K video in the XAVC Intra 422 format.
Intuitive One-Touch Interface
Designed with significant input from cinematographers, the F55 features an intuitive interface for a range of controls. Instead of diving through menus, you get direct one-touch access to key shooting parameters including frame rate, shutter speed, color temperature, ISO sensitivity, and gamma. Assignable buttons mean that your favorite adjustments are always at your fingertips.
Real-Time 4K Output and Other Vital Connections
The F55 supports real-time 4K output to a compatible monitor via four 3G-SDI outputs. There is also HDMI, USB, DC input, a removable XLR audio module, and a removable time code/genlock module. The XLR inputs accept balanced analogue signals, provide 48V phantom power, and will accept four channels of AES/EBU digital audio with an expected firmware upgrade.
Long-Life Olivine Battery and Quick Charger
The F55 takes advantage of Sony's BP-FL75 battery pack, which uses olivine lithium iron phosphate instead of conventional lithium-ion cathodes. The result is a substantial increase in charge/discharge cycles, compared to previous Sony batteries. The olivine battery works with Sony's BC-L90 quick charger. The camera is also compatible with Sony's BP-GL95A, GL65A, L80S, and L60S batteries, which use the BC-L70 and L160 chargers.

Sony PMW-F55Specs

Built-In ND Filter
Mechanical Filter Wheel with 3 Stop (1/8), 6 Stop (1/64) ND Filters
Gain
-3 to 18 dB
Shutter Angle
4.2 to 360°
Advertised Dynamic Range
14 Stops
Gamma Curve
Sony S-Log 2
Audio Recording
2-Channel 24-Bit 48 kHz
Video I/O
4x BNC (HD-SDI) Output
1x HDMI Output
Audio I/O
2x XLR 3-Pin Mic/Line (+48 V Phantom Power) Input
1x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Stereo Output
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Headphone Output
Power I/O
1x XLR 4-Pin Input
1x XLR 4-Pin (11 to 17VDC at 2 A) Output
Other I/O
1x Hirose 8-Pin Control Input
1x Mini-USB
1x BNC (Timecode) Input
1x USB-A
Battery Type
V-Mount
Power Consumption
25 W
Accessory Mounting Thread
1x 3/8"-16
1x 1/4"-20
Packaging Info
Package Weight
7.85 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
14.3 x 11.8 x 9.7"

Sony PMW-F55 Reviews

See any errors on this page? Let us know

Hi, what are the compatible monitors (not talking ...

Hi, what are the compatible monitors (not talking about viewfinder) ? Is wireless monitor available?
Asked by: Sabyasachi
Any 3G SDI monitor will be fully compatible with the cameras SDI/Monitor out. The recommended brands would be, SmallHD, TV logic and transvideo monitors
Answered by: Sean
Date published: 2020-07-16

question

can i use this camera for the big screen (motion picture quality)?
Asked by: Anonymous
Absolutely. Many films have been shot using it including Ex-Machina
Answered by: MIGUEL M.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

Is the SD Card Slot for storing Settings?
Asked by: J G.
It is for the storage of camera settings. You cannot record video.
Answered by: Dennis A L.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

hi, can F55 record XAVC 4K? if it can, is the XAVC 4K 10bit 444 or 10 bit 442 or 12 bit 444 or 12bit 422? thx
Asked by: Linfeng
PMW-F55 4K Recording (bitrate at 24p) does XAVC 4:2:2, 10-bit, 240 Mbps Internal (QFHD) with v1.4 upgrade), F55RAW, 16-bit, 960 Mbps with AXS-R5.
Answered by: Dennis A L.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

RAW 4K Capability? With accessory? Which?
Asked by: Gale M.
The Sony AXS-R5 Recorder enables 16-bit 4K and 2K RAW Recording with the PMW-F55.
Answered by: Joseph P.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

are there any accessory power taps Lemo ?
Asked by: Anonymous
With the Battery Adapter and the AXS-R5, both have a 4 pin Lemo power out.
Answered by: Dennis A L.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

why this item is non returnable?-laksmi
Asked by: Anonymous
It is due to a restriction from the manufacturer.
Answered by: Muriel A.
Date published: 2018-08-28

question

sony f5/f55 is eqiped with pl mount adaptor in the box so that i can use my pl mount lens or i have 2 bye it as accessories ?-dr asok
Asked by: Anonymous
Although the Sony PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera comes with a native FZ mount, you may use PL lenses with the included PL mount adapter included in the box.
Answered by: Richard B.
Date published: 2018-08-28
  • y_2020, m_8, d_13, h_15CST
  • bvseo_bulk, prod_bvqa, vn_bulk_3.0.10
  • cp_1, bvpage1
  • co_hasquestionsanswers, tq_9
  • loc_en_US, sid_898428, prod, sort_[SortEntry(order=LAST_APPROVED_ANSWER_SUBMISSION_TIME, direction=DESCENDING)]
  • clientName_bhphotovideo