Sony has announced a new addition to its Cinema Series — FX30. The new model is externally almost identical to the full-frame FX3, Released in February 2021but has a 26-megapixel Super35/APS-C backside-illuminated CMOS sensor.
The FX30 can capture 4:2:2 10-bit 4K/60p video internally using full sensor width (oversampling from 6K vs. FX3’s 4K live downsampling) as well as output 16-bit RAW video via HDMI to an external recorder such as Atomos Ninja V or Ninja V+. The camera can also shoot 4K/120p but with a massive 38% crop, where the FX3 only has to crop 10% when shooting at that high frame rate. Still images were captured at full APS-C at 6,192×4,128 pixels.
Other features include dual base ISO at 800 and 2500, ISO range from 100 to 32,000, claimed 14+ stops of dynamic range (when used with S-Log3), in-body 5-axis image stabilization Body and Real-time Eye AF for animals, people or birds as well as real-time tracking. Like the FX3, the FX30 features a cooling fan for unlimited recording time, dual CFexpress/SDXC card slots, and a full-size HDMI socket.
Available from late October, the Sony FX30 will have an MSRP of $1,800 body-only – less than half the price of the full-frame FX3, which retails for $3,900. It will be interesting to see if those who like Nauticam with FX3 . case will support the new camera.
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PRESS PRESS
Sony Electronics Expands Cinema Line with New 4K Super 35 Camera for Future Filmmakers
LOS ANGELES, CA – September 28, 2022 – Sony Electronics Inc. is pleased to announce the latest addition to the brand’s acclaimed Cinema Series – the FX30 (model ILME-FX30). The new FX30 is a 4K Super 35 compact cinema camera that offers many Cinema Series professional features, such as Dual Base ISO, Log shooting mode, and a user-imported LUT (Lookup Table) with The price appeals to many avid filmmakers.
In addition to introducing the new FX30, Sony has announced two new CFexpress Type A Memory Cards – the CEA-G320T and the CEA-G640T. Both are high capacity cards that support high speed performance with maximum write speed.
Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc., said: “The new FX30 is a great fit for many filmmakers. Plus, by combining many of the professional features found in our flagship cinema cameras, it’s a perfect camera for up-and-coming filmmakers working on a tight budget. “
Create a cinematic look
The FX30 gives filmmakers the next generation of cinematic expression with the latest imaging system. It features a back-illuminated 20.1-megapixel APS-C Exmor R™ CMOS sensor (Super 35 format) with dual base ISO (800/2500) to deliver high sensitivity, low noise, and 14+first latitude stop.
FX30 supports a wide variety of video recording codecs. It can shoot at high frame rates, including 4K at 120 fps and full HD at 240 fps.2 The FX30 is also capable of recording 4K Super 35 (16:9) by oversampling from 6K up to 60 fps. Both 16:9 recording modes can shoot at 10-bit 4:2:2 while the HDMI Type-A port outputs 4K, 16-bit RAW3 for an external recorder.4
Like the rest of the Cinema Series, the FX30 features Log shooting modes by allowing flexible Cine El, Cine El Quick and ISO modes to record with the S-Log3 gamma curve, allowing for more flexibility in color grading. All three modes allow video recording while monitoring with the appropriate LUT to preview the final image. Additionally, the FX30 has a range of cinematic interfaces built in, such as Sony’s S-Cinetone™, and can capture single still images. The camera offers advanced image processing with the BIONZ XR processor for natural gradations and true color reproduction.
Designed to support the needs of creators
The FX30 features Sony’s fast and reliable video and still autofocus, with settings including:
- Real-time eye AF (person, animal, or bird5)
- Real-time tracking
- Detailed AF settings
- Support AF6
Ads also have more control when using Spotlight Map,7 makes it easy to visualize depth of field and Breath Compensation8 to provide a stable angle of view when focusing. The camera includes effective stabilization when running and shooting using Active Mode9 thanks to in-body optical 5-axis image stabilization. FX30 also includes timecode sync.ten
FX30 incorporates other features that keep the spirit of the Cinema Series alive, including:
- New customizable list-style main menu screen for quick access to frequently used items
- New standby movie screen provides an unobstructed view of the subject
- Movie-specific buttons and dials
The FX30 also includes additional functionality to support creative workflows, such as post-editing using embedded LUTs and EI metadata.11This metadata is available using the latest version of Sony’s Catalyst Preparetwelfth or Catalyst Browse apps. A new “Catalyst Prep Plugin” for Adobe Premiere Pro was released in August.
Easy operation and compact form factor
Compact and lightweight, the FX30 features a flat top design with threaded accessory attachment points, making it easy to use for handheld shooting, low-angle photography, gimbal mounting or adding accessories. The FX30 also has an XLR handle unit,13 can be used to capture low-angle scenes and also allows filmmakers to capture crystal clear sound through the various audio inputs, including two XLR audio inputs and a stereo mini-jack 3.5 mm for 4 channel recording. An external microphone can be connected directly to the camera via the Multi Interface Jack or the microphone jack. The FX30 also has an internal stereo microphone for recording.
The FX30 is equipped with two memory card slots that are compatible with both CFexpress Type A cards and SDXC/SDHC cards, providing a wide range of movie shooting experiences for filmmakers. The FX30 is also compatible with the newly announced large capacity CFexpress Type A memory card.14
The FX30 combines enhanced performance with outstanding reliability. It features an innovative heatsink construction for uninterrupted 4K/60p recording, a reliable power supply for extended recording, and a durable magnesium alloy chassis. A comprehensive selection of E-mount lenses, high-performance microphones, and other essential components provide extremely versatile systems for a variety of creative needs.
Sony Future Filmmaker Award
The new FX30 is an ideal choice for filmmakers who are actively working on or considering joining Sony Future Filmmaker Award, a major new annual awards show for short films. Sponsored by Sony and free to enter, the Awards aim to enhance original voices from around the world with a fresh perspective on storytelling. For more information, please visit: www.sonyfuturefilmmakerawards.com.
Pricing and Availability
FX30 allows maximum creative freedom and comes with the option to purchase with or without an XLR handle15.
The new FX30 (supplied with the XLR handle) will be available in late October for around $2,200USD and $2,900 CAD. It will be sold at many authorized Sony dealers throughout North America.
The new FX30B, (supplied without the XLR handle) will also be available in late October for around $1,800 USD and $2,400 CAD. It will be sold at many authorized Sony dealers throughout North America.
For detailed product information, please visit:
Product videos can be viewed on the new FX30 HERE.
An FX30-focused product demo video can be viewed HERE and behind the scenes can be viewed HERE.
The FX30 will also be compatible with the new version of the Camera Remote SDK (Version 1.06), a development kit for software that allows remote operation and configuration changes.
CFexpress Memory Cards Class A: CEA-G320T and CEA-G640T
The compact and high-performance CFexpress Type A memory card CEA-G320T will be available in October for around $650 USD and $850 CAD (CEA-G320T), while the CFexpress Type A memory card CEA-G640T16 will be on the market in December for around $1,250 USD and $1,630 CAD. In addition to the existing 80GB and 160GB cards, 320GB and 640GB large capacity cards will be added to the lineup.17
These high-capacity cards support high-speed performance with a maximum write speed of up to 700MB/s and the “VPG400” Video Performance Guarantee, which provides continuous write speeds of up to 400MB/s and allows recording. high bit rate 4K 120p video.
The new high-capacity cards have achieved the TOUGH specification, which means they have been certified to be waterproof, dustproof, and robust enough to support stable long-term photography in various environments. .18
For detailed product information, please visit:
Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new FX30and FX30B and other Sony imaging products can be found at www.sonycine.com and www.alphauniverse.comtwo websites created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony Cinema Line.
1 S-Log3 movie, tested by Sony.
2 With approx. Crop image 38%. Need to post-edit or record in S&Q mode. In the case of S&Q mode, data must be written to a CFexpress Type A memory card when the frame rate is 120 (100 in PAL) fps or higher.
3 With a choice of 59.94p / 50p / 29.97p / 25p / 23.98p frame rates and color space
4 Supported devices are as follows: as of September 2022, it is planned to support ATOMOS NINJA V and NINJA V + HDR screen recorders. For more details, please contact ATOMOS.
5 Correct focus may not be achieved with some subjects in certain situations.
6 Not available when using SELP1650, SEL18200LE or A-mount lenses.
7 The Focus Map function cannot be used under the following conditions: When shooting still images, when using the Focus Magnifier function, when using digital zoom, during USB streaming, when do not attach the lens, when attaching an A-mount lens, or when using the SEL16F28. For other lenses, please use the latest lens software.
8 Viewing angle and image quality may vary slightly when this feature is enabled. Breathing compensation is not available for unsupported lenses, 120p (100p) movie recording, 120p (100p) S&Q recording, or still images. The compatibility of the lenses is limited. Please see Sony’s support page for lens compatibility. https://www.sony.net/dics/breathing/
9 Crop the image slightly in Active Mode. The “Standard” setting is recommended for focal lengths of 200 mm or more. Active mode is not available when recording at frame rates of 120 (100) fps or higher, including S&Q.
10 VMC-BNCM1 is required for timecode synchronization. VMC-BNCM1 requires the following annotations. Availability of VMC-BNCM1 (product number: A-5051-506-A) may vary depending on the country or region. Refer to the following support site for inventory confirmation and purchase. https://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/Support/
These 11 Metadata include Embedded LUTs, Image Stabilization, Breathing Compensation, Camera Rotation, and Film Marking
12 software download page URLs: https://www.sony.net/disoft/
13 FX30B does not include the XLR-H1 handle unit. The XLR-H1 Controller Kit will also be available as a standalone item, which will be on the market in early 2023.
14 Newly announced CEA-G320T and CEA-G640 CFexpress Class A memory cards.
15 FX30B does not have an XLR handle while the FX30 model comes with an XLR handle
16 To use the CEA-G640T memory card with the following cameras, the camera software version must be listed below. Alpha 1 (Ver.1.31 or later), Alpha 7S III (Ver.2.11 or later) and FX3 (Ver.2.00 or later).
17 1 GB = one billion bytes. Some of this card space is used for system files and is subject to change.
18 Actual performance may vary. Based on environmental conditions and usage. Sony does not guarantee damage to recorded data or cards based on all circumstances or conditions.
