Sony NX30: the new NXCAM HD camcorder will raise the bar in image stabilization

The new HXR-NX30 that Sony will present at NAB 2012 combines high performance and stabilization with SteadyShot optical balance in a small and light format. Its integrated video projector allows the user to play images on any flat surface.

Sony offers freedom of movement to video professionals with the latest addition to Sony's NXCAM range in handheld format: the HXR-NX30 high definition camcorder. This new model uses Sony's Balanced Optical SteadyShot image stabilization technology, ideal for recording on the move. It also includes another series of practical functions such as the integrated projector, all combined in Sony's smallest and lightest handheld professional camcorder.

This easy-to-use camcorder is designed for outdoor production by videographers, journalists, training centers or business users. Among its advantages, it will allow recording in many situations where other stabilization equipment would be impractical, such as on board vehicles or in the middle of a crowd.

Conventional image stabilization systems typically consist of “floating” an individual lens with a motor that compensates for camera shake. The Balanced Optical SteadyShot function combines the lens and image sensor assembly into a single floating element that moves in a unitary manner, which considerably reduces the shaking caused by normal movement during recording.

The new HXR-NX30 records at 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution with a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens (35mm equivalent: 26mm – 260mm) and offers superb levels of optical quality, sharpness and brightness. The camcorder's 1/2.88-inch image sensor uses Sony's Exmor R CMOS technology, which significantly increases low-light performance, speeds up image readout, reduces line scan artifacts, and supports multiple frame rates (1080/50p, 25p, 50i, and 720/50p).

The camera, which records in AVCHD mode, has 96 gigabytes of internal memory (about 8.75 hours at maximum HD recording quality, 28 Mbps) and has a dual slot that accepts SD or Memory Stick PRO Duo memory cards to increase storage capacity.

Built-in projector

An integrated video projector allows the user to play images on any flat surface, with a maximum coverage of 254 cm at 5 m distance. This is a perfect feature for reviewing working prints, on location or on set, when a monitor is not available or is not practical to use.

The HXR-NX30 also has a removable XLR unit that allows you to record professional quality audio, control the recording level, record sound with linear PCM option, use time codes and set these codes on multiple cameras thanks to the infrared remote control.

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