Sony is expanding its XDCAM line of professional camcorders with its new flagship handheld PXW-Z280. The new model features three 1/2-type Exmor CMOS sensors, designed for high sensitivity of F12 (59.94p), long zoom ratio and deep depth of field. Its three-chip sensors and 4K 4:2:2 10-bit are designed for vivid imagery and delicate color gradation. Enhanced network features, versatile formats and interfaces enable direct-to-air workflows for content creation.
The PXW-Z280 is designed for easy use, with features such as advanced Face Detection Autofocus (AF) function. Users can select “Face Priority AF,” convenient for automatic face detection and optimization, or the newly introduced “Face Only AF” for more demanding 4K shooting applications. The camera detects a specific person automatically, keeping them in pin-sharp focus. A 17x zoom lens and three independent control rings with end-stop allow manual control of focus, zoom, and iris for quick and precise adjustment.
Sony’s Electronic Variable ND filter allows greater exposure control by varying the density of the ND filter during shooting while maintaining resolution and depth of the field. The camera also supports S-Log3 and Sony’s Instant HDR workflow.
The PXW-Z280 includes advanced network features to enable a secure, seamless wireless workflow.
Based on the technology developed for Sony’s cloud-based ENG service, “XDCAM air,” the new camcorder uses Sony’s Quality of Service (QoS) for live distribution of high-quality broadcast content using a Dual Link connection multiplexing two cellular networks, assigning Planning Metadata and browsing and getting clips to and from via the cloud. In addition, an integrated Wi-Fi module and Ethernet connector enable hybrid Wireless/Wired data transfer, remote control and monitoring from devices such as a smartphone, tablet or PC.
A range of formats including XAVC Intra/Long, MPEG HD422, MPEG HD and DVCAM are available to support established workflows. The camera records to SxS cards, and SD cards with optional adapters. Four-channel audio recording with independent volume dials enable precise control of external input audio and an attached MI shoe microphone. Dual MI shoes provide cable-less connection with Sony’s UWP-D series wireless microphone receiver and simultaneous use of a video light at the same time. 12G-SDI enables 4K 50p/60p transfer between long distances, using only one BNC cable.
The PXW-Z280 camcorder is planned to be available in July 2018 for $6,950 in the U.S. and $8,695 in Canada.
