Panasonic announces four professional camcorders

GaryPageau
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Panasonic Entertainment & Communication announced four 4K professional camcorders to meet all video production, broadcasting, and distribution needs. Both the AG-CX20 and HC-X2100 come with a removable handle unit, while the HC-X1600 is compatible with the separately sold handle unit.

The 4K60p 10-bit camcorders combine a compact and lightweight body for superior mobility with unparalleled optical performance featuring a 25mm wide-angle and 24x optical zoom, the company said.

The main improvements are:

  • Improved viewfinder operability: High-resolution OLED viewfinder with 1,770 K dots and larger eyecups.
  • Change to 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/HC-X2100 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/HC-X2100 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.

Feature Comparison

AG-CX20

HC-X2100

HC-X1600

HC-X1200

HC-X2100 Features

+

  • P2 MXF

  • microP2 card Support

  • NDI HX2 Compatible

  • SRT Protocol*1

HC-X1600 Features

+

  • 3G SDI-Out

  • Simultaneous SDI/HDMI output

  • USB Tethering

  • Ethernet*2

  • Dual Codec Recording*1

  • Detachable Handle Unit Included

HC-X1200 Features

+

  • Built-in Wi-Fi (5GHz/2.4GHz)

  • HC ROP

  • MOV Recording (4:2:2-10bit rec, 24bit- LPCM)

  • 4:2:2 10-bit Internal Recording

  • FHD Live Streaming

  • Compatible with the Optional Detachable Handle Unit

  • Tiltable Viewfinder with Large Eyecup

  • XLR Input x 2*3

  • LED Light*3

  • 4K60p recording

  • Wide 25mm and Optical 24x Zoom Lens

  • 4K High-Precision AF

  • 5-Axis Hybrid O.I.S.

  • HEVC 4:2:0 10-bit

  • Internal ND Filter

  • Heat-Dispersing Design

  • Two Manual Rings

  • Double SD Card Slot

  • USB PD (Type-C)

  • Long Life Battery
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*1 To be added by firmware update.

*2 USB-LAN conversion adaptor is needed.

*3 The optional handle unit is needed.
Microphone is not included in all models

Written by 

Gary Pageau is principal of InfoCircle LLC, continuing his marketing communications career. InfoCircle LLC is a marketing and communications consulting firm, specializing in business-to-business markets. For nearly 25 years, he was with PMA International, serving most recently as Publisher, Content Development and Strategic Initiatives. His primary responsibilities included overseeing the Association’s editorial department, marketing research unit, education and corporate relations department.