Sony is likely working on new products for April's NAB show, but that doesn't mean they aren't still supporting current cameras. This week they announced that the FS7 will get a bunch of new features in firmware 2.0, which will be a free update coming in March (this update was expected sooner than this, so it's possible it could get pushed into April if they run into any issues).

Here's what's new in the firmware:

  1. Expands audio recording to four channels audio at 24-bit, 48 KHz.
  2. Supports DCI compliant 4096 x 2160 XAVC-Intra-frame recording up to 60 fps.
  3. Adds HD Apple ProRes codecs to enable progressive and interlaced HQ and 422 recording.
  4. Eliminates “Magenta Cast” in WB preset mode.
  5. Renames "Color Temp" menu parameter to "Preset White"
  6. Eliminates need to re-enable “Steady Shot” after power ON/OFF cycle.
  7. Retains “Paint Menu” settings after power OFF/ON cycle.

This is a look at the specs of the new 4K XAVC-I codec:

Sony_fs7_firmware_2

In addition they've said that the new ProRes recording options will only work when you're using the XDCA-FS7 expansion module:

Sony_fs7_firmware_2

Audio is also improved in this update:

Enabled two additional audio inputs via the built-in Multi-Interface “MI Shoe” located on the FS7 top handle; for a total of four, 24-bit, 48 KHz digital audio channel recording. The Audio Menu is enhanced to enable management of additional inputs.

Sony_fs7_audio_improvements_in_firmware_2

You can read more about these updates in the PDF here, and the download should be available sometime in March.

Source: Sony

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Cinematography & Cameras