Panasonic will be releasing four new models of 4K professional camcorders to meet all video production, broadcasting, and distribution needs: AG-CX20, AG-CX18, HC-X1600 and HC-X1200. Both the AG-CX20 and AG-CX18 come with a removable handle unit, while the HC-X1600 is compatible with a separately sold handle unit.
The 4K 60p 10-bit camcorders combine a compact and lightweight body with unparalleled optical performance featuring a 25mm wide-angle and 24x optical zoom. This series has been highly acclaimed by directors who record with one-man operations and at other professional filming locations where high mobility and image quality performance are required.
For the latest models, we have incorporated improvements based on feedback received to make them even more useful for a wide range of video productions. The main improvements are as follows:
- Improved viewfinder: High-resolution OLED viewfinder with 1,770K dots and larger eyecups.
- Updated USB-C port: The USB port has been changed to the highly versatile Type-C, which can also feed power to the camcorder.
- Addition of low bitrate recording mode (firmware support): A new low bitrate mode for FHD MP4 recording will be added in the next firmware update. It will support 28 Mbps (50p/59.94p), 24 Mbps (23.98p), and 20 Mbps (25p/29.97p).
- Improved low-speed zoom: It supports low-speed zoom, which is approximately 2.8 times slower than the previous model, to expand the range of video expression.
- Shooting guideline display support: A guideline display has been added that allows users to check composition and horizontality.
- Enhanced network functionality: Supports Wi-Fi 5 GHz and adds USB tethering functionality.
- Improved operability through linkage with an app: The dedicated app “HC-ROP” now supports the live view function, making it easier to operate the camera from a smart device.
The high-end AG-CX20/AG-CX18 models support FHD live streaming through Wi-Fi and ethernet. In addition, the AG-CX20 will support the SRT protocol for high-quality, low-latency streaming. From a system standpoint, the AG-CX20/AG-CX18 are equipped with 3G-SDI and support simultaneous output with HDMI. The AG-CX20 also provides NDI HX2-compliant IP connectivity for smooth live streaming in a network environment.
Panasonic will continue to introduce camcorders that meet a wide range of needs, from directors who conduct on-location shooting and interviews to video creators who pursue high-quality video production and live streaming.
Featuring optical performance for precise shooting
The integrated lens offers a remarkably powerful, optical 24x zoom that ranges from 25mm*1 wide angle to 600mm tele. i.ZOOM achieves 32x at 4K mode, and 48x at FHD mode. The 4-Drive Lens System drives the four lens groups independently, thus achieving the optical 24x zoom and compact body size.
Two Manual Rings are provided, one for focusing and the other for zoom or iris operation. The Manual Rings are designed with different sizes so the appropriate ring can be controlled without error by touching it with the fingers. ND Filters can be selected from 1/4, 1/16, 1/64, and Clear, while glass is used as a countermeasure against scorching from sunlight condensation.
High-speed, high-precision AF Including face detection AF/AE
Superior focusing speed, stability and tracking performance for both 4K and FHD is achieved thanks to Face Detection AF/AE together with the precise focus lens drive. Face Detection AF/AE provides precise focusing and sufficient exposure for subjects. In addition, subject tracking with color recognition can be activated by just touching the LCD panel enabling precise tracking.
5-Axis HYBRID O.I.S. Enables Stable Image acquisition
In addition to OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), Electronic Image Stabilization operates to detect and correct handshake in 5 axes, including rotational blurring. This provides strong correction under unstable conditions, such as low-angle and high-angle shooting. The Ball O.I.S. System reduces friction on the drive section, achieving delicate correction even for small-amplitude handshake. This produces beautiful images with suppressed handshake even at high, 24x optical zoom.
Compact body equipped with 4K/60p thanks to a heat-dispersing design
The heat-dispersing design with a thin fan enables both a compact and lightweight body and 4K 60p high-definition recording. By pulling in air from the rear panel of the camera and efficiently dispersing heat from the front panel, reliable, extended shooting is achieved.
High-quality recording with versatile modes
The camcorders support a variety of bit rates and formats to meet professional needs. This enabled 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording with maximum 29.97 p in UHD, and maximum 59.94p in FHD. When set for 10-bit recording, the camcorder delivers 4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit HDMI output, enabling high image quality capture with an external recorder. Highly efficient HEVC recording (LongGOP/10-bit 4:2:0/MOV) is also supported for recording UHD 59.94p at a high bit rate of 200 Mbps.
As for file formats, in addition to MOV, MP4, and AVCHD, the AG-CX20 also supports the ideal P2 MXF for the editing system for broadcast stations, and recording by the AVC-Intra/AVC-LongG codecs is supported.
In addition, low bit rate recording formats of 28 Mbps (50p/59.94p), 24 Mbps (23.98p), and 20 Mbps (25p/29.97p) are planned to be added to the FHD MP4 recording in the next firmware update.
Functions and designs supporting pro Camera work
A bright video light is built into the handle. The brightness can be adjusted by the dimmer dial for shooting in dim lighting. For shooting in even darker conditions, commercially available IR lights are supported for IR (Infrared) Shooting.
The high-resolution 3.5-inch monitor with approximately 2,760 K dots provides excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. It has an electrostatic touch panel that enables smooth operation when selecting menus, and the size of the eyecups has been increased to ensure comfort when shooting for long periods of time.
The included large-capacity battery does not protrude when attached and enables extended shooting.
