Did you enjoy the fireworks? After a short break for the summer, we're ready to get back to work. There are quite a few announcements to cover this week. Sony is up first, releasing a new camera, lens, and microphone. These were big-deal releases, too, with a new flagship APS-C mirrorless a6700 joining the lineup, a serious update to the FE 70-200mm f/4 Macro G OSS II Lens, and the announcement of the ECM-M1 on-camera mic with advanced beamforming tech. In addition to those releases, TASCAM is unveiling the DR-10L Pro, a 32-bit upgrade for the pocket audio recorder.
Sony brings out flagship a6700 APS-C camera and ECM-M1 mic
It's been a while since we have seen a new Alpha series APS-C camera from Sony. So, now that the brand is introducing this update, we're excited to see that it aimed for the top with the a6700.
The most exciting update for Sony APS-C fans is that we are finally getting a next-generation sensor in the a6700. The 26MP Exmor R was first found in the FX30 and now, we are getting it in a more traditional mirrorless body. The camera can take advantage of the improved performance and speed to enhance stills and video.
This sensor will offer an advanced AF system with 93% coverage and ultra-fast performance. The latest functions are all here, with AI-based recognition of people, animals, and more. It will shoot at up to 11 fps and has a native ISO range of 100-3200.
Design-wise, the a6700 doesn't present too many surprises, which may be a little disappointing to some of you. The camera has a 2.36m-dot OLED EVF, which is similar to what we have seen in the past. The LCD fully articulates for extra versatility, though it is still a 3" 1.03m-dot display. There is still only a single SD card slot.
Video is as good as you would expect with this sensor, with UHD 4K up to 120p and Full HD up to 240p with 10-bit 4:2:2 codecs. S-Log3, S-Cinetone, and user LUTs make an appearance, as well.
There are numerous smaller upgrades, such as built-in USB streaming, the usual inputs/outputs, and more. The a6700 is powered by the larger NP-FZ100-style battery pack.
All this combined makes a solid upgrade and a more modern APS-C offering in a space that is increasingly competitive.
Sony offers a series of on-camera mics that slide right into the Multi Interface Shoe of modern cameras. These rely on a combination of advanced mic systems and digital signal processing to deliver high-quality audio straight to the camera. The ECM-M1 is the next step in the evolution of that system, with a more advanced beamforming array that allows for eight selectable modes/pickup patterns.
Perfect for the compact and on-the-go nature of vlogging, the ECM-M1 is an easy way to get better audio for your everyday shoots without taking up too much space in your bag. It also benefits from receiving power and data communication via the shoe for cable-free functionality.
The different modes suit a variety of different shooting styles. You can select between wide, medium, or narrow pickups focused toward the front; a unidirectional pickup that will capture sound all around you; capture only rear (ideal for voice-over from the camera operator); capture front and rear only for interviews; standard stereo recording; and a cool way to capture the front and rear but split between the right and left tracks for easier editing in post.
This thing looks fun and is quite compact―it seems like a good match for the a6700 or many ZV series cameras.
Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G is getting a well-deserved overhaul
One of the first lenses I acquired for my Sony mirrorless cameras was the original FE 70-200mm f/4 G lens. Keep in mind that this was released before the G Masters were even a thing, and it was a great choice―years later, we are looking at dramatically more advanced and demanding cameras and we want the best from the lenses. Enter the FE 70-200mm f/4 Macro G OSS II Lens.
It's smaller, lighter, has better optics, and more functionality than its predecessor. That's a solid upgrade. Specifically, it features a new optical configuration, with a floating focusing element that helps improve resolution and enables close-up, half-life-size macro imaging. The latest lens tech helps ensure crisp, flare- and aberration-free imagery, as well.
As for performance, the lens's autofocus system has been upgraded with four XD Linear motors for even faster operation and works with the ultra-fast 30 fps mode of the a1. For video, this system is optimized for minimal focus breathing and focus shift and has Linear Response MF. OSS remains and is even better for sharper images and smoother video.
If you are looking for more versatility from your already extremely versatile 70-200mm, the version II is compatible with Sony's 1.4x and 2x Teleconverters. This will extend your reach to an effective 98-280mm f/5.6 or 140-400mm f/8, respectively. It also gives you a 1:1 reproduction ratio for macro photography.
We don't mean to speak ill of the original 70-200mm. It is still a great lens and is now more accessible price-wise, so you don't need the version II if you are looking for your first serious telephoto lens.
This lens is looking good, and the new, more compact size should make it more likely to find a way into your everyday bag.
TASCAM springs 32-bit to DR-10L Pro field recorder
Pocket-friendly recorders and wireless systems have become immensely popular due to their convenience and versatility. TASCAM was one of the brands to hit this market early, with the DR-10L, which found its way into many videographers' kits. Now, the brand is taking that great concept and elevating it with new features, including 32-bit float recording, with the DR-10L Pro.
Much of the recorder is similar to its predecessor: the compact form factor, locking 3.5mm mic input, and the use of two AAA batteries to keep it powered. It'll run for more than 24 hours on those batteries―just fine for weddings, interviews, documentaries, or anything else that requires uninterrupted run time.
32-bit recording is the big deal here, since it means you no longer have to worry about clipping and don't even need safety tracks, since all the data is perfectly recoverable in post. It makes the idea of leaving this on your talent much less worrisome, because you know the audio won't be clipping without you realizing it.
A very nice addition for filmmakers is the ability to use the optional AK-BT1 Bluetooth Adapter to gain access to the DR-10L Pro CONNECT app for wireless control. Plus, this adapter will support wireless timecode synchronization with Atomos products, such as the UltraSync Blue.
It is a brilliant little recorder worth checking out.
In other news...
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Godox has some more lights to get excited about and they look like fun. The KNOWLED F-Series Bi-Color LED Panels are flexible mats that are immensely useful for lighting in difficult locations.
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Zhiyun upgraded its top-notch CRANE 4 handheld gimbal, including easier vertical orientation shooting.
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B&H is turning 50! To celebrate, we will be hosting the Bild Expo, here in New York. Check out all the details and sign up to attend.
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We have taken a deep look at the Sony FX30, which, if you want to know more about the a6700's new 26MP APS-C sensor, is going to be well worth a watch.
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We have also published a review of the very interesting and cool TP-7 Digital Tape Recorder, from teenage engineering.
Check back next week for more news!
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