Sony's Latest Offering, the FX2, Marks a New Milestone as the Least Expensive Full-Frame Cine Camera from Sony.
The Sony FX2, a new addition to Sony's lineup of compact cine cameras, is now available for preorder, with shipping expected in July. This full-frame digital cinema camera is designed to cater to hybrid shooters, offering both high-quality video and still photography capabilities.
Key Specifications and Features
At its heart, the Sony FX2 boasts a 33MP Full-Frame CMOS Exmor R sensor, capable of shooting 4K video up to 60 fps and 1080p up to 120 fps. It offers an impressive 15 stops of dynamic range and supports S-Log3 for high-end color grading workflows.
Advanced video capabilities include 4:2:2 10-bit codecs, 16-bit RAW output, and AI-powered autofocus technology, which includes animal detection optimized for video (effective on birds and cats). The camera’s autofocus system is renowned for being one of the best available in video cameras.
The FX2 comes equipped with a tilting electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a tilting monitor, enhancing flexibility on set and improving usability in various shooting positions. It also features a user interface inspired by Sony’s CineAlta line, with a "big six" menu screen for quick access to crucial settings.
In terms of accessories, the FX2 supports a broad range of professional add-ons, including cage support, an optional removable XLR handle for pro audio inputs, built-in cooling fan for extended recording sessions, and compatibility with the Sony System Advantage ecosystem.
Unique Features
The Sony FX2 incorporates UI elements from Sony’s Venice cameras, including the 'BIG6' home screen design. It also features Sony’s first tilting EVF, which tilts between 0-90°, providing a comfortable eye-level monitoring experience from various shooting angles.
The FX2 utilizes the internals from Sony's A7IV and A7C II, including a 33MP full-frame sensor. It can record up to 13 hours continuously with a built-in fan, provided power and a large enough card/SSD are used. However, it does have some criticisms, such as poor rolling shutter performance and a 1.5x crop applied during 4K 50p/60p video capture.
The FX2 supports other Picture Profiles and Creative Looks, and can import up to 16 user-made LUTs. It does not provide 32-bit float audio. The FX2 bundled with the Sony XLR handle costs $3,098/£3,149, while the camera-only version costs $2,699/£2,699.
In conclusion, the Sony FX2 serves as a versatile cinema camera with strong hybrid stills and video performance, supported by professional-grade features and accessory compatibility. It is a video-first camera that also shoots high-resolution stills, making it an attractive option for hybrid shooters.
- The Sony FX2, a hybrid camera, is now available for preorder, equipping a 33MP Full-Frame CMOS Exmor R sensor for both high-quality video and still photography.
- This new camera offers 4K video up to 60 fps and 1080p up to 120 fps, along with 15 stops of dynamic range and S-Log3 for color grading.
- The advanced video capabilities include 4:2:2 10-bit codecs, 16-bit RAW output, and AI-powered autofocus with animal detection for video.
- The camera features a tilting electronic viewfinder and monitor, enhancing flexibility on set and improve usability in various shooting positions.
- The Sony FX2 is inspired by Sony’s CineAlta line, featuring a "big six" menu screen and a UI design similar to Venice cameras.
- It supports a broad range of professional accessories, such as a cage support, an optional removable XLR handle, built-in cooling fan, and Sony System Advantage ecosystem.
- With its video-first design and hybrid stills photography capabilities, the Sony FX2 serves as an attractive option for hybrid shooters in the world of gadgets and technology.
