In early March, Panasonic will release four models of 4K professional camcorders designed to meet all video production, broadcasting, and distribution needs. The AG-CX20 and HC-X2100 have a removable handle unit, while the HC-X1600 is compatible with the separately sold handle unit.
“The 4K 60p 10-bit camcorders combine a compact and lightweight body for superior mobility with unparalleled optical performance featuring a 25mm wide-angle and 24x optical zoom,” the announcement states. “This series has been highly acclaimed by directors who record with one-man operations and at other professional filming locations requiring high mobility and image-quality performance.”
For the latest models, Panasonic has incorporated improvements based on feedback to make them more useful for video production for more users. The main improvements are as follows:
● Improved viewfinder operability: High-resolution OLED viewfinder with 1,770 K dots and larger eyecups.
● Change to USB-C port: The USB port has been changed to the highly versatile Type-C, which can also feed power to the camcorder.
● Addition of low-bitrate recording mode (firmware support): A new low-bitrate mode for FHD MP4 recording will be added in the next firmware update. It will support 28 Mbps (50p/59.94p), 24 Mbps (23.98p), and 20 Mbps (25p/29.97p).
● Improved low-speed zoom: It supports low-speed zoom, which is approximately 2.8 times slower than the previous model, to expand the range of video expression.
● Shooting guideline display support: A guideline display has been added that allows users to check composition and horizontality.
● Enhanced network functionality: Supports Wi-Fi 5 GHz and adds USB tethering functionality.
● Improved operability through linkage with an app: The dedicated app "HC-ROP" now supports the live view function, making it easier to operate the camera from a smart device.
The high-end AG-CX20/HC-X2100 models support FHD live streaming through Wi-Fi and ethernet. In addition, the AG-CX20 will support the SRT protocol for quality, low-latency streaming. From a system standpoint, the AG-CX20/HC-X2100 are equipped with 3G-SDI and support simultaneous output with HDMI. The AG-CX20 also provides NDI HX2-compliant IP connectivity for smooth live streaming in a network environment.
“Panasonic will continue to introduce camcorders that meet a wide range of needs, from directors who conduct on-location shooting and interviews to video creators who pursue high-quality video production and live streaming,” the release states.
The camcorders will be available at valued channel partners in early March.
The HC-X2100 price will be $2,199.99, the HC-X1600: $1,699.99 and the HC-X1200: $1,299.99.
*All models except HC-X1200 support Wi-Fi.
*USB tethering is supported only with the AG-CX20/HC-X2100.
*Supported protocols: RTSP/RTP/RTMP/RTMPS
For more details, visit https://news.panasonic.com/global/press/en250122-2
