Sony has unveiled the latest model in its pro line up, the PXW-FX9, its first XDCAM camcorder featuring a (newly-developed) 6K Full-Frame sensor and Fast Hybrid Auto Focus (AF) system. 

 

Sony says the new camera combines the “versatility, portability and performance” of the popular FS7 series "Run & Gun" style camcorder, while also offering High Dynamic Range and Full Frame shooting features.

 

The FX9 also inherits its colour science and Dual Base ISO 800/4000 from the VENICE with Sony pitching it for use in documentaries, music videos, drama productions and all-round event shooting. 

 

“Today’s content creators require a camcorder that is agile, versatile and customisable to their specific creative needs, yet also offers superior performance and image quality. With the new FX9 we are striking the perfect balance between agility, ergonomics and powerful features, offering content creators the complete toolset to achieve their full artistic intention,” said Norbert Paquet, Head of Product Management at Sony Professional Solutions Europe. “At Sony, we consistently listen to our customers and every product, solution or service we unveil has always been developed with their specific needs in mind. Our latest flagship camcorder is no different and we are excited to see how it will help content creators to go make tomorrow.”

 

The newly-developed 6K Full-Frame sensor offers wide dynamic range with high sensitivity, low noise and over 15 stops of latitude that can be recorded internally in 4K³ 4:2:2 10bit. Oversampling by the Full-Frame 6K sensor allows the creation of quality 4K footage with impressive bokeh effects through shallow depth of field.. The camcorder can also capture content up to five times the slow-motion speed with FHD 120fps shooting.
 

It’s equipped with the same colour science and Dual Base ISO 800/4000 as the VENICE camera.

 

The enhanced Fast Hybrid AF system with customisable AF transition speeds and sensitivity settings also combines phase detection AF for fast, accurate subject tracking with contrast AF for focus accuracy. The 561-point phase-detection AF sensor covers approximately 94% in width and 96% in height of imaging area, allowing accurate, responsive AF tracking, even with fast-moving subjects while maintaining shallow depth of field. 

 

Customisation and expansion features include compatibility with the new UWP-D series of wireless microphones via Multi Interface Shoe™ (MI Shoe) with digital audio interface, the XDCA-FX9 extension kit enabling 10bit S35 4K 120fps and 16bit RAW output⁵, compatibility with Sony BP-GL and BP-FL series batteries, D-Tap, RJ-45 interface and stable “Dual Link” streaming by using two carrier lines, as well as DWX slot-in type digital wireless receiver commonly used in broadcasting settings⁵. The FX9 will also be compatible with the newly launched E-mount lens FE C 16-35mm T3.1 G, which uniquely balances full manual operability for movie shooting and auto-control functions.

 

“Based on our ongoing conversations with customers, partners and the wider industry, we at Sony understand the needs of today’s creative storytellers – from the world’s top cinematographers, to documentary film makers, music video directors or broadcasters. What they all need is a flexible camera that allows them to tell their own unique story, no matter the environment they operate in. Our next-generation FX9 not only captures stunning visuals with life-like image quality, but it also offers advanced AF features and customisation options. This makes it the ultimate creative tool for modern content creators,” concludes Norbert Paquet. 

 

The FX9 will be available towards the end of 2019 and is on show at IBC.

 

n.b. The black FX9 in these pictures is a prototype, the final model will be grey.

Staff Reporter

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