Sony has just introduced the latest camera in its XDCAM range, PXW-X500. The new cam is a solid-state memory shoulder-mount camcorder and succeeds its popular predecessor, the PMW-500. In addition to the X500, Sony has also launched a XDCAM Portable Recorder, – the PMW-RX50.

The new X500 model sports a three-chip 2/3-inch CCD image sensors, and is designed for a broad range of HD production applications such as TV drama, reality programmes, live productions, ENG and sports production.

Features

Multi-format Recording

The PXW-X500 offers a wide array of traditional and new recording formats, including SD formats such as MPEG IMX and DVCAM, HD formats such as MPEG-4 SStP and MPEG HD422, plus XAVC Intra 4:2:2 1080 59.94/50i and XAVC Long 4:2:2 1080 59.94/50p. In early 2015, the PXW-X500 will also support Apple ProRes and Avid DNxHD as options.

High Sensitivity and High Signal-to-Noise Ratio with B4-Mount HD Lenses

Three newly-developed 2/3-inch-type Power HAD FX CCDs produce high-quality pictures with high signal-to-noise ratios (60dB), while maintaining high sensitivity levels (F12 at 1080/50i and F11 at 1080/59.94i) that the widely-accepted range of XDCAM shoulder mount camcorders are known for.

Powerful Slow & Quick Motion up to 120p Frame Rate

The X500 offers a powerful “Slow & Quick Motion” function. Thanks to the XAVC codec, its highest frame rate can reach 1080p/120fps, which allows a five times slow motion effect at 23.98fps. This spectacular performance is enabled by the newly-developed CCD image sensors and the camera’s outstanding image processing abilities.

Built-in Wireless Module enables efficient workflow and streaming of proxy content

With a built-in wireless module, the camcorder can be operated from compatible WiFi devices such as tablets, via the supplied IFU-WLM3 USB wireless LAN module. In addition, proxy video files can be generated separately from the main hi-res file recordings and independently recorded to an SD card. In early 2015, the wireless module will be able to stream the proxy content over WiFi or LTE (Long Term Evolution) networks.

The streaming function will also be available for Sony’s PXW-X180 XDCAM handheld solid-state memory camcorder which was recently launched into the market in August 2014.

Other key features of the PXW-X500

Pool-feed input with 3G/HD/SD-SDI

Simultaneous recording onto two SxS cards

Flexible camera system operation with the CA-FB70 optical fibre or CA-TX70 digital triax camera adapters

GPS functionality records GPS data in an MXF file and a log file automatically, when activated

PMW-RX50

Sony also launched the new RX50 XDCAM Mobile Recorder, which features a compact design, and is capable of SxS recording and playback. The recorder supports the XAVC Intra 4:2:2 1080/59.94p and XAVC Long 4:2:2 1080/59.94p formats, as well as traditional formats such as MPEG HD 4:2:2, 4:2:0, MPEG IMX and DVCAM. It works well as a field deck companion for the X500, especially in applications such as field shoots and on-site location shoots.

Features

Simultaneous recording onto two SxS cards

Comes with an adapter supporting XLR audio

DC output for CBK-WA100 Wireless Adapter

XAVC Long 4:2:2 Upgrade for Sony’s PMW-1000 XDCAM Recorder

Sony’s current model PMW-1000 XDCAM HD422 recorder, will be getting a free upgrade to add support for XAVC Long 4:2:2 1080/50i as well.

“Sony continues to pursue high picture quality and efficient workflows that fulfill the exacting requirements of broadcasters everywhere,” said Anthony Kable, Senior Product Manager, Sony Australia. “The launch of these new camcorders, portable recorders and XAVC upgrades bears testament to Sony’s total solutions approach in ensuring that XDCAM users continue to remain at the forefront of technology and productivity, and enjoy options to future-proof their assets.”

PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

The PXW-X500 and PMW-RX50 will be available from October 2014, no word as yet on prices.

The XAVC Long 4:2:2 software upgrade for the PMW-1000 will be available from December 2014.

Correction, the title of this article was changed on the 26/08/2014 to change the X500 name from PMW-X500 to PXW-X500.

Excerpts from Press Release