NAB 2018: What's New with the Latest Sony XDCAMs

The Video department at B&H Photo is pleased to share Sony's introduction of a trio of new XDCAM camcorders, at NAB 2018. Let's take a brief look at the just-released PXW-Z280, the PXW-FS5M2, and the PXW-Z190. Features common to each of these compact, pro 4K video cameras include 4K/60p capture, an electronically variable ND filter for precise exposure adjustments, HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) for HDR workflow compatibility, and support for a variety of frame rates, and codecs.

PXW-Z280 4K 3-CMOS ½"-Type Sensor XDCAM Camcorder

Starting at the top, the PXW-Z280 employs three 1/2"-type Exmor R CMOS sensors to record 4K/60p with the option of recording 4K and HD simultaneously. Equipped with a Fujinon 17x optical zoom lens, and 4-channel audio, the PXW-Z280 has integrated 5GHz /2.4GHz Wi-Fi for compatibility with a variety of network-based features. It supports XAVC Intra/Long, MPEG HD, and DVCAM formats, the S-Log3 gamma curve, and sports a 12G-SDI terminal for 4K/60p output.

PXW-FS5M2 4K XDCAM Super 35mm Compact Camcorder

Following in the footsteps of Sony's popular FS5 camcorder, the E-mount PXW-FS5M2 includes the external RAW recording function that was previously available as a paid upgrade. Use an external recorder to capture 4K/2K FS RAW output with 4K60p/50p. The PXW-FS5M2 can record Full HD continuously up to 120 fps, and burst recording at 240 fps has been lengthened from 4 seconds to 8 seconds. The PXW-FS5M2K kit includes an 18-105mm f/4 lens with power zoom (27-157.5mm, 35mm equivalent).

PXW-Z190 4K 3-CMOS 1/3-type sensor XDCAM Camcorder

Rounding out this trio is the PXW-Z190, complete with a 25x optical Sony G Lens featuring a wide-angle end of 28.8mm. This camcorder incorporates a 3-chip 4K 1/3"-type Exmor R CMOS sensor, and records up to 4K/60p to dual slots for widely available, affordable SD cards. The PXW-Z190 has built-in 5GHz /2.4GHz Wi-Fi to support multiple network-based functions, and when combined with the optional MCX-500 Live Producer, and RM-30BP Remote, offers an integrated, simple live-production solution.