Grass Valley returns to IBC with the new LDX C180 camera

IBC 2025 (12–15 September, Amsterdam) will enable Grass Valley to showcase its latest advances in live production, which will take the form of new cameras, such as the LDX C180, as well as other new developments.

Following the debut of the LDX 180 at NAB earlier this year, Grass Valley will present its compact version in Amsterdam: the LDX C180. Designed to offer freedom in both Steadicam and PTZ applications, the LDX C180 brings a cinematic touch to live production, helping creators captivate audiences with more compelling stories. In the words of Paul de Bresser, Grass Valley’s director of camera products: “The LDX C180 is a game changer for productions looking to blend cinematic artistry with the immediacy of live coverage. Maintaining all of the purpose-built features of the flagship LDX 180, the LDX C180’s form-factor allows creative teams to capture moments with a new level of drama, intimacy, and impact.”

Featuring the same internally developed Xenios Super 35 10K sensor as its full-size counterpart, the LDX 180, the new compact camera captures true cinematic depth of field, while being specifically designed for the realities of live production environments. Both the LDX 180 and LDX C180 are making their European debut at IBC 2025, offering broadcasters the chance to “completely redefine storytelling” – all in native UHD.

This is not the only improvement to the LDX 100 series. At IBC 2025, Grass Valley will add a new UHD/HDR option to the LDX 110 series, while all LDX 100 series models will become compatible with RF and 5G solutions thanks to a partnership with Vislink. Other enhancements coming via software update include a new ND filter setting that gives shadowers precise 1-step F exposure control to improve HDR and SDR conversion, and an optical low-pass filter that minimises interference from elements such as thick LED screens.

Additionally, Grass Valley will introduce a new XCU 12G-SDI base station for installations requiring dedicated 12G outputs rather than hybrid/IP.

Production Replay: Grass Valley’s new replay platform

Grass Valley’s new Production Replay solution will make its debut at IBC 2025. Powered by the AMPP OS software-defined platform, this tool allows operators to receive inputs from multiple cameras, quickly mark in and out points, and deliver instant replays and playlists.

A key feature is its native integration with Framelight X, Grass Valley’s solution for production and media asset management. As content is ingested into Production Replay X, it is immediately available for file editing, highlight creation, and rapid publishing, without media movement or delays and regardless of where creatives are located. Users can access and play back content both within Production Replay X and send it directly to Playout X for linear broadcast or digital distribution.

IBC 2025 will also mark the European launch of the K-Frame VXP, a sub-compact addition to Grass Valley’s acclaimed K-Frame XP switch range. With the same advanced features as its larger counterparts, such as native 12G support and HDR (HLG) – internal SDR colour mapping, the K-Frame VXP offers a 48×24 IO footprint, making it compatible with productions that require high-end capabilities without sacrificing compact size.

Alongside the K-Frame VXP, the new Karrera 3-strip control panel will be on display, with a 2-strip configuration also available. Positioned as a mid-range option, Karrera panels complete Grass Valley’s family of control surfaces, alongside the Kayenne panel and the compact Korona panel, all of which are fully compatible with VXP and the wide range of K-Frame switchers.

AMPP Automation: new features at IBC 2025

Grass Valley will also debut new features for AMPP Automation, a solution initially introduced at NAB that allows operators to control and automate production environments regardless of location, whether on-premises, in the cloud, or in hybrid workflows. Specifically, the company will introduce the new Ignite Protocol Core for AMPP Automation, which will provide instant access to more than 60 additional control integrations for local third-party control.

“AMPP Automation is rapidly evolving to support news and media productions at scale, further illustrating how AMPP is bridging the gap between traditional and software-defined workflows while driving new levels of integration and efficiency across the production chain,” explains Grass Valley.