Sony’s latest addition to their professional XDCAM lineup, the PXW-Z150, is a compact and versatile camcorder that merges usability and built-in advanced networking capabilities with broadcast-quality 4K and Full HD video. Most notably, it features a large 1.0” type Exmor RS CMOS sensor, making it the first professional camcorder to utilize Sony’s “stacked” sensor design, promising a 2x increase in read-out speeds compared to traditional 1.0” type sensors. The sensor supports continuous high-frame-rate Full HD image capture at up to 120 fps, as well as UHD 4K recording up to 30 fps with full pixel read and no pixel binning.
In many ways, the PXW-Z150 can be thought of as a 4K-capable HXR-NX100, as it shares a similar physical design, from the compact and lightweight chassis to the Sony G lens that offers 12x optical zoom range (29 to 348mm equivalent). Clear Image Zoom expands that range to 18x in 4K and 24x in HD. The camcorder sees an upgrade in the monitoring department, sporting a 0.39”, 1440K-dot OLED viewfinder to go along with the 3.5”, 1550K-dot LCD.
The PXW-Z150 is designed to be user-friendly for shooters of all experience levels, including those upgrading from DSLRs or smaller-form camcorders, while still providing a full set of controls. You can choose to shoot in full auto mode, or in full manual mode, which is supported by three independent manual lens rings for tactile adjustment of focus, zoom, and iris. To help control your exposure in bright conditions, there is a four-stage mechanical ND filter (Clear, 1/4, 1/16, and 1/64).
To fit into a variety of workflows, the PXW-Z150 offers several recording formats to choose from. High-resolution UHD 4K can be recorded using the XAVC-L codec at 100 Mbps (8-bit 4:2:0), while Full HD 10-bit 4:2:2 recording is available in XAVC-L (50 Mbps). You can also choose to record Full HD using the MPEG-2 (MPEG HD422) format at 50 Mbps for easy integration into broadcast workflows, or AVCHD when smaller file sizes are needed. AVCHD is also available for increased flexibility, with a time code burn-in feature useful for legal depositions. Two SDHC/XC card slots are available to support relay recording, simultaneous recording for instant backup, or dual codec recording.
The camcorder offers a wide range of connections to interface with peripherals, including 3G-SDI connector for HD output/monitoring and a HDMI output that supports 4K video. This allows you to easily connect the camcorder to a 4K TV, boardroom projector, or other display device. Additional connectivity includes professional XLR audio inputs, micro-USB multi-terminal, remote, and composite video (RCA). The camcorder is also equipped with a Multi-Interface Shoe for cable-free attachment of optional accessories such as the Sony UWP-D wireless audio microphone systems and HVL-LBPC LED light.
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Rounding out this camcorder’s impressive feature list is built-in Wi-Fi and advanced networking capabilities, letting shooters add mobility to their work. You can FTP files directly from the camcorder or live stream over Wi-Fi without having to add any additional accessories. You can also use the camcorder’s Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity to remotely pair it to your iOS or Android mobile devices running the Content Browser Mobile app, giving you remote control over focus, zoom, iris, white balance, REC start/stop, and more. A cold-shoe on the handle provides an attachment point for additional accessories.