Sony Electronics adds two 4K handheld professional camcorders with AI-based subject recognition autofocus, tracking and auto framing
HXR-NX800 NXCAMTM and PXW-Z200 XDCAMTM with 1.0-type CMOS sensor and newly designed 20x optical zoom lens offer recording and streaming capabilities ideal for broadcast, corporate, education and faith content creation
SYDNEY, 20 August 2024 – Sony Electronics is releasing two new 4K handheld camcorders, the NXCAM™ HXR-NX800, and XDCAM™ PXW-Z200 with SDI and MXF wrapper[1]. Both models feature artificial intelligence (AI) recognition capabilities, high-precision autofocus (AF), a newly designed 20x optical zoom lens, a variable neutral-density (ND) filter, and assignable lens ring[2].
[1] Through a future firmware update for the PXW-Z200 expected in winter 2025
[2] Feature will be available through a firmware update planned for winter 2025
The new models combine portability, functionality, interoperability, and network connectivity for a high-quality and inclusive capture and live streaming experience. The cameras are suited to individuals and small teams supporting applications within broadcast, corporate, faith, and education. The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 are expected to be available September 2024 for a suggested retail price of $6,250 (AUD) and $7,550 (AUD), respectively.
“The new HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 build upon Sony’s rich legacy and expertise in broadcast and production and marries it with the latest transformative technology trends including AI and all in one streaming,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics. “As we continue to strengthen our portfolio, we’re pleased to combine some of our most sought-after and beneficial features into a handheld form factor to accommodate professionals at all levels with the options and capabilities to make their work more impactful, visually appealing, and efficient.”
High-Quality Capture
AI subject recognition, auto focus (AF), and support for 4K 60p/120p recording facilitate high-quality capture with less manual input. The cameras feature a BIONZ XR™ image processing engine and a specialised AI-processing unit for highly accurate, real-time recognition, tracking, and framing of subjects. In addition, the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200’s 1.0-inch-type Exmor RS™ CMOS stacked sensor provides high-sensitivity and low-noise capability.
An Electronic Variable ND Filter enables users to toggle seamlessly between 1/4 to 1/128 density. Users also have the option to enable auto-ND, which allows the camera to maintain an optimised exposure without the user having to adjust settings – especially useful when moving quickly between indoor and outdoor environments. Two rings for focus and zoom[3] and two dials for IRIS/ND Variable are located side-by-side, for effortlessly adjusting exposure along with focus and zoom. Twelve assignable buttons provide further customisation.
Powerful Zoom and Image Stability
The two new cameras are equipped with Sony’s G Lens™ with a newly designed optical 20x power zoom that covers 24mm wide angle to 480mm telephoto and a maximum aperture of F2.8-F4.5. The models can achieve 30x (4K) and 40x (HD) zoom with no noise using Sony’s Clear Image Zoom technology.
Active mode combines electronic correction with optical image stabilisation to provide smoother imagery on the go[4].
[3] Iris control is planned to be assignable to a control ring in or after June 2025
[4] Slight image crop in Active Mode. Active Mode is not available when recording at frame rates of 120p or higher, including S&Q.
Interoperability and Integration
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 provide beneficial integration with Sony’s camera portfolio. Presets such as S-Cinetone™, ITU709, 709tone, HLG Live, HLG Mild and HLG Natural, can be easily adjusted to colour match the footage captured on Sony’s other broadcast, Cinema Line, and AlphaTM cameras.
The new cameras support a wide variety of recording formats including XAVC HS, XAVC S, XAVC SI, and XAVC HS Proxy (up to 16 Mbps). They support proxy recording, which reduces the burden of data storage and management during post-production and TC/UB recording, which is necessary when operating multiple cameras. The PXW-Z200 will also support XAVC (MXF) recording through a future firmware update expected summer 2025.
Additionally, the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 are equipped with various interfaces including HDMI Type A, USB Type-C™, LAN, and REMOTE terminals. The PXW-Z200 supports SDI (12G, 6G, 3G [Level A/B], HD) input/output, and TC input/output.
Professional Network Connectivity
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 offer an all-in-one recording and streaming solution that empowers a single operator or small team to easily manage both capture and distribution. Connecting the cameras to a network, such as Wi-Fi, enables live streaming of recorded footage to streaming services and video sites via RTMP/RTMPS or SRT.
Versatile file transfer options include HEVC (H.265) and AVC (H.264) codecs, automatic upload to the cloud or an FTP server, and the ability for proxy chunk for high-quality and secure file transfer.
Furthermore, by combining it with Sony’s new portable data transmitter, PDT-FP1, the two new camcorders can support higher quality streaming with the company’s proprietary QoS technology and Creators’ Cloud for enterprise services, including the camera linking cloud service, C3 Portal (paid service), XDCAM pocket, and the cloud broadcast system, M2 Live.
Mindful Accessibility and Sustainability
In keeping with Sony’s commitment to accessible and environmentally conscious technology, the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200’s menus can be operated using voice reading and feature a screen enlargement function for magnifying screens at the desired ratio. Text-to-speech can read on-screen copy and information, with adjustable volume and reading speed.
The new camera bodies feature resin which incorporates SORPLAS™, a flame-retardant recycled plastic that is made from up to 99% recycled material. Over the past 12 years, Sony has replaced approximately 426 tons of virgin plastic in digital cameras and camcorders with recycled plastic[5]. The packaging of the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 further reflects Sony’s efforts to minimise the use of plastic.
For more information about Sony’s professional cameras, please click here.
[5] Researched by Sony. Recycled materials used in the product itself and accessories from April 2012 to March 2024.
About Sony Corporation
Sony Corporation is a creative entertainment company with a solid foundation of technology. From game and network services to music, pictures, electronics, image sensors and financial services – Sony’s purpose is to fill the world with emotion through the power of creativity and technology. For more information, visit: http://www.sony.net/.
About Sony Australia:
Sony Australia Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Sony Corporation of Japan, and a leading manufacturer of audio, video, communications and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets. Committed to producing innovative and quality electronic products, the range includes BRAVIA TVs, Alpha digital interchangeable lens cameras and Cyber-shot digital cameras, headphones, Walkman MP3 players and other audio products, and professional broadcast equipment. For more information on Sony Australia, visit www.sony.com.au.