PANASONIC ANNOUNCES FOUR 10-BIT 4K60P PROFESSIONAL CAMCORDERS WITH 25MM WIDE-ANGLE LENS AND 24X OPTICAL ZOOM

These are the HC-X1200, HC-X1600, HC-X2100 and AG-CX20 models.

Panasonic announced the launch of four 4K professional camcorder models to meet all video production, streaming, and distribution needs. Both the AG-CX20 and HC-X2100 come with a removable handle unit, while the HC-X1600 is compatible with a separately sold handle unit.

The 10-bit 4K60p camcorders combine a compact and lightweight body for superior mobility with unparalleled optical performance, including a 25mm wide-angle lens and 24x optical zoom. This series has been highly acclaimed by directors shooting with one-person operations and in other professional filming locations where high mobility and image quality performance are required.

For the latest models, the brand has incorporated enhancements based on feedback to make them even more useful for video production for even more users.

“We're starting 2025 with a very important update to practically our entire camera lineup: the HC-X1600 replaces the HC-X1500, and the HC-X2100 replaces the HC-X2000. We also have two completely new cameras: the HC-X1200, a low-end camcorder, and the AG-CX20, also low-end but aimed at the professional broadcast world. The latter joins the AG-CX350, which we already had in our portfolio,” said Rodrigo Costa, Sales Manager at Panasonic Brazil, who added: “In the camcorder market, there's a trend toward cost reduction and a migration that everyone is familiar with. In this sense, Panasonic has had great success selling these models precisely because it has implemented new features in the cameras.” "This is undoubtedly very good for our dealers because there is a wide range of cameras at different price points and a wide variety of features that can be used depending on the customer's needs, both in terms of cost and technical resources."

MAIN IMPROVEMENTS INTRODUCED

Improved viewfinder functionality: High-resolution OLED viewfinder with 1770K dots and larger eyecups.

Switch to USB-C port: The USB port has been changed to the highly versatile Type-C port, which can also power the camcorder.

Addition of low-bit-rate recording mode (firmware support): A new low-bit-rate 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: Supports low-speed zoom, which is approximately 2.8 times slower than the previous model, to expand the range of video expression.

Recording Guide Display Support: A guide display has been added, allowing users to check composition and horizontality.

Improved Network Functionality: Supports 5GHz Wi-Fi and adds USB connection functionality.

Improved Functionality Through App Linking: The dedicated "HC-ROP" app 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 via Wi-Fi and Ethernet. Additionally, the AG-CX20 will support the SRT protocol for high-quality, low-latency streaming. From a system perspective, the AG-CX20/HC-X2100 is equipped with 3G-SDI and supports simultaneous output with HDMI. The AG-CX20 also provides IP connectivity compatible with NDI HX2 for seamless live streaming in a network environment.

Panasonic will continue to introduce camcorders that meet a wide range of needs, from directors shooting and interviewing on location to video creators looking for high-quality video production and live streaming.

OPTICAL PERFORMANCE FOR PRECISE SHOT

The built-in lens offers an incredibly powerful 24x optical zoom ranging from a 25mm wide-angle*1 to a 600mm telephoto lens. i.ZOOM reaches 32x in 4K mode and 48x in FHD mode. The 4-unit lens system drives the four lens groups independently, achieving the 24x optical zoom and a compact body size.
Two manual rings are provided, one for focusing and the other for zoom or iris operation. The manual rings are designed with different sizes so that the appropriate ring can be controlled without error by simply touching it with your fingers. ND filters can be selected from 1/4, 1/16, 1/64, and clear, while glass is used as a countermeasure against burn-in caused by condensation from sunlight.

HIGH-SPEED, HIGH-PRECISION AUTOFOCUS INCLUDING AF/AE WITH FACE DETECTION

Superior focusing speed, stability, and tracking performance are achieved for both 4K and FHD thanks to Face Detection AF/AE along with Precise Focus Lens Control. Face Detection AF/AE provides precise focus and sufficient exposure for subjects. Additionally, Color Recognition Subject Tracking can be activated by simply touching the LCD panel, enabling precise tracking.

THE HYBRID O.I.S. SYSTEM ENABLES STABLE IMAGE ACQUISITION

In addition to Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), Electronic Image Stabilization works to detect and correct 5-axis handshake, including rotational blur. This provides robust correction in unstable conditions, such as low- and high-angle shooting. This system reduces friction in the drive section, achieving delicate correction even for small-amplitude handshake. This produces beautiful images with suppressed handshake even at the high 24x optical zoom.

COMPACT BODY EQUIPPED WITH 4K60P THANKS TO A HEAT DISPERSION DESIGN

The heat-dispersion design with a slim fan enables a compact, lightweight body and 4K60p high-definition recording. By drawing air in from the camera's rear panel and efficiently dispersing heat from the front panel, reliable, long-lasting recording is achieved.

HIGH QUALITY RECORDING WITH VERSATILE MODES

The camcorders support a variety of formats and bit rates to meet professional needs. This enabled internal 10-bit 4:2:2 recording with a maximum of 29.98p in UHD and a maximum of 59.94p in FHD. When configured for 10-bit recording, the camcorder offers a 4K60p 4:2:2 10-bit HDMI output, enabling high-quality image capture with an external recorder. High Efficiency HEVC (LongGOP/10-bit 4:2:0/MOV) recording is also supported for recording UHD 59.94p at a high bit rate of 200 Mbps.
Regarding file formats, in addition to MOV, MP4, and AVCHD, the AG-CX20 also supports the P2 MXF, ideal for broadcast station editing systems, and recording with the AVC-Intra/AVC-LongG codecs is also supported. Additionally, low-bitrate recording formats of 28M (50p/59.94p), 24M (23.98p), and 20M (25p/29.97p) are planned to be added to FHD MP4 recording in the next firmware update.

DUAL SD CARD SLOT SATISFYS YOUR RECORDING NEEDS

  • Two SD memory card slots are provided. With unlimited relay recording, the recording medium switches automatically and seamlessly from slot 1 to slot 2. Simultaneous recording or background recording can also be selected to suit your workflow and card needs.
  •  Unlimited Relay Recording: Data is recorded continuously by automatically switching the recording SD card from slot 1 to slot 2. By swapping a full SD card for a new SD card, images can be recorded continuously for many hours.
  • Simultaneous Recording: Identical data is recorded on cards in both slots in this highly redundant recording mode.
  • Background Recording: One SD card in slot 2 can be set to record continuously and another SD card in slot 1 can be set to record the required scenes by turning recording on and off. -Dual Codec Recording (AG-CX20/HC-X2100 only): Records images simultaneously in two different formats, such as primary (UHD/FHD) and secondary (FHD), etc. This achieves an efficient workflow.

48KHZ/24-BIT HIGH-RESOLUTION LINEAR PCM AUDIO RECORDING

A +48 V phantom power supply/selectable MIC/LINE XLR audio input with manual volume is included for each of the 2 channels. High-quality 2-channel audio recording is also supported in 24-bit Linear PCM (MOV/P2 MXF), 16-bit AAC (MP4), or Dolby Audio (AVCHD). The optional handle unit (VW-HU1) is required for the HC-X1600.

The versatility of network functions expands the user's workflow

It supports 5 GHz Wi-Fi (IEEE802.11ac) in addition to the 2.4 GHz band. USB connection via smartphone is now also possible in unstable network environments, such as those with frequent radio interference. Live viewing is now available via the dedicated "HC ROP" app for tablets and smartphones, improving operability for wireless control of camera settings, lens control, and more.
The AG-CX20/HC-X2100 supports RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol), enabling live streaming of concerts, sporting events, news, and more to Facebook, YouTube, and others. The AG-CX20 will support the next-generation SRT image transmission protocol in the next firmware update, enabling live streaming with high image quality and low latency. The AG-CX20/HC-X2100 are equipped with an Ethernet connection for more stable live streaming, and a wired LAN connection is available via a commercially available USB LAN conversion adapter.
In addition, the AG-CX20 features NDI HX2 mode, which enables camera transmission and control via an IP connection without the need for external converters.
The AG-CX20/HC-X2100 also supports simultaneous 3G-SDI and HDMI output, with up to FHD 60p 4:2:2 10-bit video output from SDI.

OPTIONAL ACCESSORY

A handle unit (VW-HU1) has been added as an optional accessory. It is easily detachable and features a 2-channel XLR audio input, audio monitoring, and an LED light. Operating the zoom lever attached to the handle unit maintains a constant zoom speed, which can be set in 7 steps from the menu.