LAS VEGAS – Sony is expanding its XDCAM line of professional camcorders with its new flagship handheld PXW-Z280. The new model boasts three 1/2-type Exmor R CMOS sensors, ideal 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 add vivid imagery and delicate color gradation. Enhanced network features, versatile formats and interfaces enable direct-to-air workflows, especially for broadcasters, production companies and documentary 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 unique 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.
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.
The PXW-Z280 camcorder is planned to be available in July 2018 for $6,950 in the US and $8,695 in Canada.