Camcorders with 4K resolution, 60 frames per second, and 10-bit color depth to be shipped by Panasonic in March.
**Panasonic Unveils New 4K 60p 10-bit Professional Camcorder Models**
Panasonic has announced the launch of three new 4K 60p 10-bit professional camcorder models: AG-CX20, HC-X1200, and HC-X2100. These camcorders are designed to meet the needs of professional users in video production, broadcast, and content distribution workflows.
The flagship model, AG-CX20, boasts a 4K 10-bit 60 fps capture with a wide-angle 25 mm lens and a powerful 24× optical zoom. This high-quality, detailed video is ideal for professional production. The camcorder also features dual XLR mic preamps with +48V phantom power and manual volume control, supporting professional audio recording.
For superior image quality, the AG-CX20 supports high-bitrate recording at 200 Mbps using the HEVC codec (LongGOP/10-bit 4:2:0/MOV). Advanced image stabilization, combining optical and electronic 5-axis correction, reduces hand-shake blur and improves footage stability. Face detection and color recognition autofocus ensure reliable subject tracking during shooting.
The AG-CX20's compact design, featuring a 2.7" LCD screen, is optimized for field use, and its long battery life, thanks to the LP-E10 battery, supports extended shoot times.
The HC-X1200 and HC-X2100, while specific detailed specs are not yet available, are expected to share key features with the AG-CX20. These include 4K 60p 10-bit video recording, robust zoom lenses, professional audio input options, support for advanced video codecs and recording formats, enhanced image stabilization and autofocus technologies, and a high-resolution OLED viewfinder.
All three models deliver 4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit HDMI output when set for 10-bit recording. They also operate with Optical Image Stabilization and Electronic Image Stabilization in 5 axes. The camcorders have a shooting guideline display to enable users to check composition and horizontality.
The camcorders feature superior focusing speed, stability, and tracking performance for both 4K and Full High Definition (FHD) video, thanks to Face Detection AF/AE together with the precise focus lens drive. Electronic Image Stabilization corrects handshake, including rotational blurring.
The camcorders have a USB-C port that can provide power to the camcorder. However, they do not have a USB tethering feature, which is available only on the AG-CX20 and HD-X2100. The camcorders do not support Wi-Fi 5 GHz, except for the AG-CX20 and HD-X2100.
The camcorders have improved operability via the dedicated HC-ROP app (except for the HC-X1200), with support for live view function. Subject tracking with color recognition can be activated by touching the LCD panel. The camcorders support a variety of bit rates and formats, including 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording.
The camcorders have ND Filters that can be selected from 1/4, 1/16, 1/64, and Clear, while glass is used as a countermeasure against scorching from sunlight condensation. The camcorders' low-speed zoom is about 2.8 times slower than the previous model.
A low-bit rate recording mode (via next firmware update) is available for FHD MP4 recording, with support for 28 Megabits per second (50p/59.94p), 24 Mbps (23.98p), and 20 Mbps (25p/29.97p). The new camcorders will be available via Panasonic's channel partners in early March.
- The new 4K 60p 10-bit camcorders from Panasonic, including the AG-CX20, HC-X1200, and HC-X2100, are intended for professional media production, broadcast, and content distribution workflows.
- The AG-CX20, the flagship model, offers 4K 10-bit 60 fps capture, a 25 mm wide-angle lens, and a powerful 24× optical zoom, making it ideal for high-quality video production.
- The AG-CX20 supports high-bitrate recording at 200 Mbps for detailed video using the HEVC codec, and it features advanced image stabilization for improved footage stability.
- The camcorders deliver 4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit HDMI output and operate with Optical Image Stabilization and Electronic Image Stabilization in 5 axes, enhancing the focusing speed and stability.
- The AG-CX20 has a USB-C port for power supply, while the AG-CX20 and HD-X2100 offer Wi-Fi 5 GHz and a USB tethering feature.
- The camcorders support a variety of bit rates and formats, including 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording, and they also have ND Filters and a shooting guideline display to aid composition and horizontality.
- A low-bit rate recording mode for FHD MP4 recording will be available via a firmware update for the new camcorders, which will be available via Panasonic's channel partners in early March.
