The unnamed prosumer version of the F3 that Sony has been keeping under wraps is now semi-official. The NEX-FS100 will have the same (roughly Super35-sized) sensor as the F3, offers XLR audio inputs, a detachable viewfinder, a detachable hand grip, up to 1080p/60p shooting, GPS capabilities, and will retail for around $6,000 (including a Sony E-mount zoom lens).
Hitting a similar price point as the Panasonic AF100 and, eventually, the RED SCARLET 8X, the Sony will record to an AVCHD codec of up to 24Mbps (28Mbps in 60p), and will offer a 4:2:2 HDMI output in lieu of the F3's 4:2:2 (upgradable to 4:4:4) HD-SDI. No word yet on whether the FS100 will have 10-bit or 8-bit HDMI output, though the HDMI signal will reportedly include timecode. The camera takes SDXC/SDHC or Memory Stick Duo cards, and may retail for as low as $4,500 without a lens. UPDATE: suggested list price for the two different models (the "K" monitor indicates it includes a lens) are as follows: NEX-FS100U (without lens) is $5,850, and the NEX-FS100UK (with lens) is $6,550. However, considering the F3's suggested list price is $16,000 and it's retailing for $13,300, that $4,500 figure is likely spot-on.
More specs:
- Exmor™ Super 35mm CMOS image sensor
- E lens mount (and most other popular mounts via adaptor)
- Full HD 1920×1080 AVCHD HD recording / MPEG2-SD recording
- Over- and under-speed recording
- XLR audio inputs (XLR x2)
- Detachable 3.5″ colour viewfinder
- On-board Memory Stick, SD memory card and optional HXR-FMU128 flash memory media
- Uncompressed HDMI output with time code for external 4:2:2 recorders
- NEX-FS100K includes E18-200mm lens, LCD viewfinder, power adapter, lithium battery (NP-F770), microphone (ECM-XM1) and wireless remote
- Fast & slow motion up to 60fps (note: another site claims only 50p) at 1920×1080 HD resolution.
Full details will be available at NAB (or sooner). For now, then, some images:
Link: Hands-on With Sony’s NXCAM Super 35mm Camcorder - Videomaker
It's certainly a new form factor for Sony, veering away from the PD-150/EX-1 camcorder form factor that they've employed for years. With a detachable viewfinder and detachable handgrip, the boxy body seems more akin to a RED "brain" than their traditional video camera. Any thoughts on the NEX-FS100 based on the specs, images, and price?
[via crews.tv]
