NEX-FS700R: Sony's new NXCAM camcorder with the possibility of recording in 4K/2K RAW

Available in two models (NEX-FS700RH and NEX-FS700R), it features Sony E-mount lenses and a 4K Exmor Super35 CMOS sensor, plus pre-installed firmware version 3.0, enabling 4K and 2K RAW recording on a compatible external recorder.

Sony has presented new professional NXCAM camcorders at IBC 2013, the NEX-FS700RH and the NEX-FS700R. Both models include Sony's E-mount lens system and a 4K Exmor Super35 CMOS sensor, plus firmware version 3.0 pre-installed, enabling 4K and 2K RAW recording on a compatible external recorder. The firmware update also includes the popular S-Log2 gamma mode, which provides a wider dynamic range, even for HD productions.

The NEX-FS700RH also includes the new SELP18200 electronic zoom lens (f = 18-200 mm, F3.5 -6.3). The zoom control integrated into the camera grip allows users to combine smooth zoom effects with the spectacular shallow depth of field control offered by the large format sensor.

The NEX-FS700R/RH also supports super slow motion recording in 4K/2K RAW format when used with the optional HXR-IFR5 interface unit and AXS-R5 RAW recorder. This combination allows you to record in 4K RAW format at up to 120 fps (four seconds) and continuously at 240 fps in 2K RAW format on the AXS-R5 recorder.

For NEX-FS700E/EK users, Sony will offer a firmware update service that includes product pickup, installation of firmware version 3.0, basic sensor cleaning, and product return.

Main features of the NEX-FS700R and NEX-FS700RH

• Super slow motion recording up to 10x in Full HD (120/240 fps). The high readout speed of the Exmor Super35 CMOS sensor allows recording in Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 120 fps or 240 fps. Using 24 fps (24p) playback, up to 10x super slow motion images are possible (applies to approximately eight-second recordings at 240 fps settings.) The camcorder's high sensitivity and low-noise performance ensure sharp images, ideal for super slow motion recording, which previously required large-scale equipment. It is also possible to record at faster speeds of 480 fps and 960 fps at reduced resolution.
• High resolution Exmor Super35 CMOS sensor and recording in 4K RAW format. With approximately 11.6 million pixels, the Exmor sensor is capable of capturing images with 4K resolution. The optional HXR-IFR5 interface unit and AXS-R5 RAW recorder allow you to capture images in 4K/2K RAW format. The 3G-SDI connector on the NEX-FS700R/RH sends 4K/2K signals to the HXR-IFR5, which are then recorded to the AXS-R5 in RAW data format. The 4K RAW recording mode (4096 x 2160) allows recording in four-second bursts at 120 fps. 2K RAW (2048 x 1080) recording mode allows continuous recording at 240 fps. The workflow for recorded RAW data is the same as using the CineAlta 4K PMW-F55/5 camera and the Sony AXS-R5 recorder.
• Sony's E-mount system offers more flexible lens options. The E-mount interchangeable lens system fits the large Super 35mm sensor and is ideal for recording motion pictures. Auto focus, auto exposure and vibration reduction modes can be used during recording. Another advantage of the E-mount system is the short distance between the mount and the focal plane (the distance between the surface of the lens mount and the image sensor). This allows you to use both Sony E-mount lenses and Sony A-mount lenses using the LA-EA2 mount adapter. Additionally, the wide range of lens adapters from other manufacturers allows professionals to get the most out of their lenses, such as DSLRs, for more creative results. The NEX-FS700RH includes the SELP1800 E-mount electronic zoom lens, which offers approx. 11x (f= 18-200 mm, F3.5 -6.3) and a smooth zoom control.
• The built-in ND filter allows you to record with a shallow depth of field even in bright conditions without reducing the aperture. Four positions can be selected from Clear, including 1/4 (2EV), 1/16 (4EV) and 1/64 (6EV).
• Native 1080p progressive video signals can be sent over 3G-SDI and HDMI without a pull-down process, allowing users to capture 4:2:2 images in uncompressed 1080p on a compatible external recorder. It is also possible to use the HD-SDI and HDMI outputs simultaneously, and both include REC and timecode control signals. The latest firmware version, 3.0, adds a feature that allows you to start and stop recording on a compatible third-party external SDI recorder when you press the REC button on the NEX-FS700R/RH. In addition, exclusively at Sony, it is also possible to use this function with HDMI recorders from other manufacturers.
• Picture Profile function that allows you to modify the parameters that determine the characteristics of the image, such as the gamma curve, black levels and color tone. It allows users to try more creative expressions outdoors, and also gives them more flexibility when it comes to color correction. There's also S-Log2, a popular gamma mode in digital cinema production, which achieves a dynamic range of 1,300%. S-Log2 mode can be used to monitor recording in both RAW and AVCHD formats, taking advantage of the camcorder's wide dynamic range. Picture Profile parameters and other camera settings can be saved to a memory card as camera profile data. The stored camera profile can then be instantly recalled or copied to another NEX-FS700R to ensure image tones match when using a multi-camera setup.
• The camera's modular design allows users to choose between different recording styles with ease. The handle, grip and viewfinder (all included) can be removed to use the camera in a compact format or with a variety of filming accessories.
• You can connect an HXR-FMU128 flash memory unit (sold separately) to record in HD to the HXR-FMU128 and a memory card at the same time. The HXR-FMU128 can connect directly to the camera for over 10 hours of continuous recording, making it a powerful tool for backing up important footage to memory cards.