Experience Sony’s new AI-enhanced 4K/UHD camcorders @ IBC2024
Sony has unveiled two new 4K/Ultra HD (UHD) handheld camcorders, the NXCAM HXR-NX800 and XDCAM PXW-Z200, designed to meet the demands of broadcast, corporate, faith, and educational sectors. These compact models integrate advanced AI capabilities for high-quality capture and live streaming.
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 are equipped with Sony’s cutting-edge BIONZ XR image processing engine and a special AI-processing unit, providing real-time subject recognition, tracking, and framing capabilities. This technology supports 4K/UHD 60p/120p recording, allowing users to achieve high-quality capture with minimal manual input. The 1.0-inch-type Exmor RS CMOS stacked sensor offers high sensitivity and low noise, ensuring sharp and detailed imagery even in challenging lighting conditions.
The camcorders also feature an Electronic Variable ND Filter, enabling adjustment between 1/4 and 1/128 density. Users can activate auto-ND mode, which optimises exposure settings automatically, making it ideal for dynamic shooting environments. Additional customisation is provided through two focus and zoom rings and two IRIS/ND Variable dials, along with 12 assignable buttons for personalised control.
Both models are equipped with a newly designed 20x optical zoom G Lens, ranging from 24mm wide-angle to 480mm telephoto with an aperture of F2.8-F4.5. Sony’s Clear Image Zoom technology further enhances the zoom capabilities to 30x in 4K/UHD and 40x in HD, maintaining clarity without introducing noise. The Active mode, combining electronic correction with optical image stabilisation, ensures smoother footage, even during handheld operation.
Both models are compact and lightweight, weighing just under 2kg. They feature a foldable viewfinder, removable microphone holder, and a 3.5-inch LCD monitor. The camcorders support various recording formats, including XAVC SI, with the PXW-Z200 set to receive XAVC (MXF) support in 2025.
Designed for professional connectivity, the cameras offer interfaces like HDMI, USB Type-C, LAN and SDI (on the PXW-Z200). They support live streaming via Wi-Fi and secure file transfers to the cloud or FTP servers.
