New Panasonic 4K professional camcorders offer superior image quality & mobility

GTC Patron Panasonic Connect’s series of four new 4K 60p 10bit professional camcorders have been developed specifically for the requirements of on-location filming teams and video creators. The high-end AG-CX20 and AG-CX18 models, and the HC-X1600 and HC-X1200 camcorders, all feature state-of-the-art optical technology, in addition to a lightweight and compact chassis design that delivers increased mobility, and high-quality video production.

Wide angle zoom lens for precise shooting

The camcorders offer superior optical performance thanks to a powerful integrated 25mm^[1] wide angle to 600mm^[2] telephoto zoom lens, with 24x optical zoom. They feature a 4-Drive Lens System that operates each lens group independently, in addition to two manual focus rings.

All four cameras feature both Optical and Electric Image Stabilisation to detect and correct any unwanted camera shake through five axes, including rotational blurring. This is especially useful when shooting subjects from very high and low angles. All models provide superior focusing speed, stability, and tracking performance when shooting in both 4K and FHD, thanks to the Face Detection AF/AE feature that provides precise focusing and exposure for subjects.

IP-based video for seamless streaming

The high-end CX20 model will support full-HD live streaming through the next-generation, IP-based SRT protocol^[3], with the CX20 and CX18 delivering simultaneous SDI/HDMI outputs. Panasonic’s CX20 also supports NDI®* HX2 IP connectivity for high-quality, low-latency live streaming in a network environment, without the need for external converters. Both the CX20 and CX18 support Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP)^[4], allowing content to be streamed live directly to social media platforms and video sharing sites, such as YouTube.

Listening to the needs of the industry

Panasonic’s intimate knowledge of what directors and cinematographers require from high-performance camcorders when shooting on location have been reflected within the improvements made to all four models, further increasing usability and functionality. They feature:

1. Improved high-resolution OLED viewfinders with larger eyecups.
2. The highly versatile USB-C port for faster data transfers and power delivery.
3. Low bitrate recording for FHD and MP4 shooting, supporting 28 Mbps, 24 Mbps, and 20 Mbps.^[5]
4. Improved low-speed zoom (approx. x2.8 slower than previous models).
5. Enhanced network functionality supporting WiFi 5GHz^[6] and USB tethering^[7].
6. Ethernet and wired-LAN connectivity for stable live streaming^[8].
7. Improved operability with ‘HC-ROP’ mobile application, enabling remote control of lenses and camera settings^[9].
8. Long-life, compact battery for extended shooting.
9. High-resolution 3.5-inch touchscreen for increased ease-of-use.
10. x2 SD card slots, allowing for simultaneous and background recording, increasing flexibility and redundancy when shooting on-location.

Compact design for superior mobility

The unique design of all four models enables heat to be dispersed from the front panel thanks to a slimline fan. This increases reliability and enables the body to be as small as possible. The CX20 and CX18 include Panasonic’s VW-HU1 handle unit, featuring a two-channel XLR audio input and control, and bright, adjustable LED light for shooting in low light conditions. Users can also easily operate lens zoom from the handle unit.^[10]

All four camcorders support multiple bit rates and formats for a variety of requirements. When configured for 10 bit recording with an HDMI output, all models deliver 4K 60p 4:2:2 output with an external recorder. All camcorders support the MOV, MP4 and AVCHD formats, whilst the CX20 supports the P2 MXF workflow.

Andre Meterian, Director of Professional Video Systems for Panasonic Connect Europe says:

Whether they’re shooting on location or streaming live video, directors and video content creators increasingly require an all-in-one solution. Our new range of camcorders draws on our decades of expertise and knowledge of increasing user-friendliness and functionality for professionals, from the smallest ergonomic refinements, to developing unparalleled optical technology that can seamlessly shoot and distribute 4K video over IP-based networks; we are putting incredible power and flexibility into the hands of creative professionals.

^[1] 35mm camera equivalent.
^[2] 35mm camera equivalent.
^[3] To be added by firmware update.
^[4] Supported protocols: RTSP/RTP/RTMP/RTMPS.
^[5] Included in next firmware update.
^[6] Except X1200 model.
^[7] CX20/CX18 model only.
^[8] CX20/CX18 model only.
^[9] Except X1200 model.
^[10] Available as an optional extra on the X1600 only.

For more information on Panasonic’s range of professional camcorders, please visit: eu.connect.panasonic.com/gb/en/ag-cx18-ag-cx20