After a relatively quiet summer, this past week's busy release schedule is putting us back in action.
RØDE announced an even more impressive mic system for creators: the Wireless PRO. This brings 32-bit float recording and other "pro" features, like timecode, to the series.
Tamron continues to show off more and more glass and better compatibility with the development of a 17-50mm f/4 Di III VXD Lens for Sony E and by opening preorders on the Nikon Z-mount version of the 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD. Finally, Hasselblad is adding a compact prime to its X System with the XCD 28mm f/4 P Lens.
RØDE Wireless PRO brings 32-bit recording, timecode, and more
Compact and relatively affordably 2.4GHz systems changed the game for up-and-coming creators by making wireless audio easy, and the RØDE Wireless lineup was and is still leading the charge. However, RØDE decided to make things even better with the release of the Wireless PRO, which adds 32-bit float on-board recording, timecode support, and more.
The Wireless PRO keeps much of the DNA of the Wireless GO series with a pair of transmitters in the kit, both with built-in microphones to get started right away. The entire wireless system operates on the 2.4GHz spectrum using RØDE's latest Series IV tech with a range of over 850'. That's great, but let's talk about what makes the PRO even better.
It can record 32-bit float while operating wirelessly, meaning you will never lose a recording due to accidental clipping since you'll always have a file to recover data in post. It's the perfect safety track. The PRO also features built-in timecode support, so your post-production process is even easier. Plus, there is the new GainAssist tech to make sure the audio being fed into your camera or recorder is just right.
Perhaps one of the best features of the Wireless PRO is the kit it comes in. The system comes with everything you might need. There are two Lavalier II mics, windshields, a pair of MagClip GOs for mounting the transmitters, a 3.5mm cable, a USB-C cable, a smart charging case, and an accessory pack to keep things organized.
If you were looking for a bit more from your mic system, it seems RØDE may have answered with the Wireless PRO.
Tamron shares details on two upcoming lens releases
Tamron has been a roll lately, with an unending stream of new lenses. The latest optic the brand has on the way is the 17-50mm f/4 Di III VXD Lens for Sony E.
This new ultra-wide to normal full-frame zoom lens is optimized for photo and video work. The f/4 maximum aperture keeps the overall size and weight down without sacrificing optical quality. For versatility, users can get fairly close to their subjects with a minimum focus distance of just 7.5" at the wide end.
As for usability, it comes with the latest VXD motor for fast, quiet autofocus in stills and video applications. The lens itself also has internal zoom and focus, meaning if you are using the lens on a gimbal or drone, you won't need to worry about rebalancing whenever you change the focal length.
As expected, the lens is moisture resistant and has a fluorine coating to make cleaning easy. You can even connect to Tamron's Lens Utility software for updates and other fine tuning.
Tamron also announced this week that you can now preorder the Nikon Z-mount version of the 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD Lens. It's priced at $1,999 and will begin shipping on September 21, 2023.
Hasselblad adds compact 28mm lens to mirrorless X System
Medium format mirrorless promised big things. Literally. Medium format mirrorless meant even bigger sensors in much smaller bodies. While the cameras themselves delivered, we were still stuck with hefty and sizable glass to pair with them. Hasselblad seems to be addressing that with its latest: the XCD 28mm f/4 P Lens.
This is a very compact ultra-wide angle lens option for the X System, with a 22mm equivalent field of view for the full-frame familiar among us. That f/4 aperture is conservative but keeps the total package very lightweight at just over half a pound (8.6 oz). Arguably, when paired with the X2D, it can become a facile street photography kit.
It's also a great lens. It is backed by Hasselblad's history of producing solid optics and has some of the brand's latest tech. That includes a smooth stepping motor and an integrated leaf shutter with speeds up to 1/4000 second.
There isn't much to delve into here. It's small and handy, if you want a Hasselblad wide.
In other news...
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Zoom reveals the ZSG-1 On-Camera Shotgun Mic, a nice competitor to the RØDE VideoMic series.
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Our video team spent some time testing out nearly every single entry- and mid-level ZEISS cinema lens.
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The team also went hands-on with the Godox KNOWLED P600Bi Bi-Color LED Light Panel.
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One of B&H's audio pros wrote a review of the Keylab Essential mk3 Universal Controller from Arturia.
I hope you know by now, but B&H's 50th Anniversary is quickly approaching, and part of the celebration will be the Bild Expo on Sept. 6–7, 2023, at the Javits Center here in New York City. If you can come to the free event, make sure you register now!
If you can't make it or need something to do while you wait then check out this article with direct insight from some of B&H's most veteran employees. You'll get a look at how things have changed behind the scenes at B&H during the past 50 years.
Hope to see you at Bild!
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