New Sony PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800 leverage AI power for simplified 4K video production

Sony has announced two new 4K cameras designed to simplify video production for beginners and budget-conscious creators. Set to launch in September 2024, the PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800 pack advanced features into compact, all-in-one bodies aimed at corporate, educational, and live-streaming applications.

Key features

• 1-inch sensor with 4K 60p recording and 5K oversampling
• 20x optical zoom (24-480mm equivalent) with silent operation
• AI-powered autofocus and framing, including human pose estimation
• Built-in streaming capabilities (RTMP/SRT)
• Dual memory card slots (CFexpress Type A and SD) with relay and backup recording
• Nightshot function for low-light recording
• 4 separate audio channels with MI shoe compatibility
• Built-in ND filter with auto mode
• Active Mode image stabilization
• Professional monitoring tools (waveform, false color, zebra, histogram)
• Creators' Cloud for Enterprise integration
• Direct file transfer to Cloud/FTP servers
• Compatibility with Sony's professional battery series

Pricing

• PXW-Z200: $3999/€3750
• HXR-NX800: $3299/€3000

Post-pandemic pivot 

The COVID-19 pandemic didn't just change how we work and learn—it catapulted live streaming from the realm of gamers and influencers into our everyday lives. Suddenly, schools, churches, and businesses found themselves attempting complex, multi-camera streaming setups on shoestring budgets and facing all the teething problems that come with it.

Enter the PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800: Sony's answer to bringing professional broadcast quality to budget-conscious organizations. 

These cameras are designed for the new world order where teachers and preachers suddenly need to deliver polished, TV-style productions without a network broadcast-sized crew or budget. 

Let's break down the tech to see if they can deliver.

Note: A funny quirk of any ‘professional equipment aimed at the broader market’ release is that it includes a lot of industry-specific terminology the actual target audience may not be familiar with. If that's you, no worries! We've included a handy glossary at the end of the article to help everyone get up to speed.

AI takes center stage

This is a logical application of the AI revolution: when a group lacks expertise in a specific technology, having someone more intelligent in that field to help—even if it's artificial—can be invaluable.

Both cameras leverage artificial intelligence to enhance usability and performance, and at the heart of this AI system is Sony's BIONZ XR image processing engine and a specialized AI-processing unit. These work together to power the Fast Hybrid AF system, which covers 98% of the frame width and 82% of its height.

Using deep learning algorithms, this system offers highly accurate, real-time subject recognition, tracking, and framing. One of the standout features is the advanced pose estimation capability, which keeps subjects in focus even when they turn away from the camera.

Users can also easily initiate 'touch tracking' by simply tapping the LCD screen, allowing the camera to follow a subject autonomously. An automated AI-based framing system adjusts composition to keep subjects centered, which is ideal for single-operator setups in educational or corporate environments where manual adjustments during live shoots may not be possible.

The full suite of AI-powered features includes:

• Fast Hybrid AF with AI-based subject recognition
• Deep learning technology for enhanced human recognition and tracking
• Pose estimation for improved subject tracking
• Touch tracking initiated by tapping the LCD screen
• AI-based Auto Framing to keep subjects centered automatically
• Face detection
• Eye detection
• AI human body detection, including when subjects have their back to the camera
• Ability to recognize and track human subjects even when they're not facing the camera

This comprehensive AI toolkit aims to simplify operation for novice users while providing powerful tools for more experienced operators to enhance their productions.

Zoom with a view

The new PXW-Z200 will support XAVC (MXF) recording next year

Both cameras come equipped with Sony's newly designed G Lens, offering a versatile 20x optical power zoom. This lens covers a large range from 24mm wide-angle to 480mm telephoto (F2.8-F4.5), catering to a wide variety of shooting scenarios. Sony's Clear Image Zoom technology further extends this range to 30x in 4K and 40x in HD, all while maintaining image quality.

This new lens system also boasts exceptionally quiet operation. This silent performance is crucial for capturing high-quality audio while zooming, making these cameras ideal for noise-sensitive environments like houses of worship or lecture halls.

To ensure smooth footage in various shooting conditions, the cameras feature Active Mode image stabilization. This technology combines electronic and optical corrections, providing steady imagery even when shooting on the move.

To complete this Batman's Utility Belt of lens features, both models include a Nightshot function. This night vision mode allows for black-and-white recording in near-total darkness, maintaining autofocus functionality even when the subject is invisible to the naked eye. This feature makes the cameras well-suited for night-time filming, wildlife observation, or other low-light applications.

Streamlined workflow and connectivity 

Sony has designed these cameras with modern, connected workflows in mind, equipping them with robust network capabilities and versatile connectivity options.

Streaming and remote control

• Built-in streaming via RTMP/SRT protocols enables single-camera live broadcasting without additional hardware.
• Compatibility with Sony's Monitor & Control App allows for wireless monitoring and remote control via smartphones or tablets—ideal for when you need to be in two places at once.
• For enhanced streaming capabilities, these cameras are compatible with Sony's PDT-FP1 portable data transmitter, enabling higher-quality streaming with proprietary QoS technology.

Physical connectivity

Both cameras are equipped with:

• HDMI Type A
• USB Type-C
• LAN
• and REMOTE terminals.

While the PXW-Z200 also supports:

•  SDI (12G, 6G, 3G [Level A/B], HD) input/output
• TC input/output

offering additional flexibility for professional setups.

The SDI connections are obvious on the back of the Z200

Cloud integration and file transfer

• Integration with Sony's Creator's Cloud for Enterprise, a suite of cloud-based workflow solutions, allows for seamless file management and collaboration.
• Both models can automatically upload files directly from the Camera to Cloud or FTP servers, significantly streamlining the post-production process.

It's worth noting that, unlike some competitors, these models do not support Frame.io integration, as Sony opts for its own cloud and file transfer solutions. 

Tethering Options

Both models support USB and Wi-Fi tethering with portable data transmitters for more demanding production environments, ensuring stable streaming even in challenging conditions.

Image quality and formats

At the heart of both cameras lies a 1-inch sensor derived from Sony's high-end FX9 camera. This sensor delivers 4K video with full pixel readout and 5K oversampling, resulting in exceptionally detailed footage with enhanced color reproduction and improved low-light performance.

The sensor's advanced design allows for greater color information capture, producing rich, nuanced images. In challenging lighting conditions, any noise present tends to resemble film grain, adding a pleasing aesthetic quality to the footage.

Both cameras support a wide variety of recording formats to suit different production needs:

• XAVC S-I 10-bit 4:2:2 recording for QFHD 4K
• XAVC HS, XAVC S, XAVC SI, and XAVC HS Proxy (up to 16 Mbps)
• Future support planned for XAVC (.mxf) format

For slow-motion enthusiasts, these cameras offer High Frame Rate (HFR) recording up to 120p in 4K, with Full HD recording available at up to 240p for 5x slow motion effects.

To facilitate seamless integration in mixed-camera environments, both models support easy color matching with Sony's broadcast and Cinema Line cameras. Available color profiles include 709 tone, S-Cinetone, and HLG, ensuring consistency across different camera setups.

Ergonomics and usability 

In keeping with the mission to bring broadcast cameras to non-broadcast industries, Sony has prioritized ease of use. A one-touch switch toggles between full auto and manual modes, while dual independent lens rings provide intuitive control over focus, zoom, and iris. The cameras feature tiltable viewfinders and LCD panels, enhancing their portability.

Both models include a built-in Electronic Variable ND Filter, offering seamless toggling between 1/4 and 1/128 density. This allows for greater exposure control in bright conditions, and an auto-ND feature automatically maintains optimal exposure when moving between different lighting environments.

Professional monitoring tools, including a waveform monitor, false color display, zebra patterns, and histogram, are available to assist with precise exposure adjustments.

For audio, the cameras offer four separate audio channels and are compatible with Sony's MI shoe, enabling connection to specialized audio equipment such as lavalier microphones.

The compact design also ensures that both cameras can be packed easily into a camera bag, making them ideal for on-the-go videographers who require portability without compromising performance.

Storage and power 

The cameras feature dual memory card slots supporting both CFexpress Type A and SD cards. This dual-slot design allows for relay recording (automatically switching to the second card when the first is full) and simultaneous backup recording.

Card slots in the back of the NX800

Battery compatibility extends across Sony's professional lineup, with the cameras using the same BP series batteries as other Sony professional cameras (Z280/Z190/FX9/FX6). This compatibility can simplify power management for users with existing Sony equipment.

Accessibility and sustainability

Sony has made significant strides in accessibility with these new models. They offer voice reading for menu operation, a screen enlargement function, and text-to-speech capabilities with adjustable volume and reading speed. Sony claims these are among the first camcorders to offer such comprehensive on-screen menu read-out features for visually impaired users.

On the sustainability front, Sony has incorporated SORPLAS, a flame-retardant recycled plastic, into the camera bodies. This continues their efforts to minimize environmental impact in their product design and manufacturing processes.

Model differentiation 

• The PXW-Z200 includes a 12G-SDI BNC connector.
• It supports SDI (12G, 6G, 3G [Level A/B], HD) input/output, and TC input/output.
• The PXW-Z200 will receive a future firmware update (expected summer 2025) to support XAVC (MXF) recording.
• There's a slight weight difference, with the PXW-Z200 being slightly heavier at 1.96 kg compared to the HXR-NX800's 1.93 kg.
  
  

The key takeaway

So, there you have it — Sony's new PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800 cameras, aiming to bring professional-grade live production capabilities to a wider audience. At their respective price points, these cameras seem to offer a solid balance of features and performance.

While they won't replace high-end broadcast equipment, they do seem poised to bridge the gap for organizations looking to upgrade their video production without breaking the bank.

On paper, it’s a strong play for the budget-conscious professional video market, but as always, the proof will be in real-world performance. That's why we will have some hands-on impressions of these cameras coming soon. So, use your touch tracking feature to stay auto-focused on RedShark News. 

TL;DR

• Sony announces two new 4K cameras: 
  • PXW-Z200 ($3999)
  • HXR-NX800 ($3299)

• Designed for budget-conscious organizations needing professional-quality video
• Key features include AI-powered autofocus, 20x silent zoom, and built-in streaming
• Aimed at simplifying complex multi-camera setups for non-video professionals
• Includes advanced features like Nightshot, professional monitoring tools, and cloud integration
• Promises broadcast-level results without requiring extensive video production expertise
• Set to launch in September 2024

Glossary

• 1-inch sensor: The light-sensitive chip inside the camera that captures the image.
• 10-bit 4:2:2: Refers to color depth and quality in video recording.
• 12G-SDI BNC: A type of video output connection, typically used in professional broadcast settings.
• 4K: A high-resolution video format with four times the detail of standard HD.
• 5K oversampling: A technique that captures more information than needed and then scales it down, resulting in higher quality 4K footage.
• 60p recording: Ability to record 60 frames per second, useful for smooth motion or slow-motion effects.
• 709 tone, S-Cinetone, HLG: Different color profiles that affect how colors appear in your footage.
• Active Mode image stabilization: Technology that helps reduce camera shake in videos.
• Auto Framing: An AI-powered feature that automatically adjusts the composition to keep subjects centered in the frame.
• CFexpress Type A/SD: Types of memory cards used to store recorded footage.
• Color profiles: Preset color settings that determine how colors are captured and displayed in your footage.
• Creators' Cloud: Sony's online platform for storing and sharing video files.
• Deep learning: A type of artificial intelligence that allows the camera to improve its performance over time.
• Dual memory card slots: Two slots for memory cards, allowing for more storage or backup options.
• False color display: A feature that assigns different colors to various exposure levels in your image, making it easier to spot over or underexposed areas.
• Fast Hybrid AF: An autofocus system that combines two different methods for quicker, more accurate focusing.
• FTP servers: Online storage spaces for transferring large files.
• Full pixel readout: A method of capturing video that uses information from every pixel on the sensor, resulting in sharper images.
• HDMI: A standard connection for high-definition video and audio.
• HFR: High Frame Rate; used for slow-motion footage.
• Histogram: A graph that displays the distribution of light and dark tones in your image.
• Lavalier microphones: Small, clip-on microphones typically attached to clothing, ideal for capturing clear audio from a speaker.
• MI shoe: A special connection on Sony cameras for attaching accessories like microphones.
• ND filter: "Neutral Density" filter; like sunglasses for your camera, reducing the amount of light entering the lens.
• Nightshot: A feature that allows the camera to record in very low light conditions.
• Optical SteadyShot™: Sony's name for their image stabilization technology.
• Pose estimation: AI technology that can recognize and track human body positions.
• QFHD: Quad Full High Definition, another term for 4K resolution.
• Relay recording: Automatically switching to a second memory card when the first is full.
• RTMP/SRT: Protocols used for streaming video over the internet.
• Tethering: Connecting your camera to another device (like a smartphone) to use its internet connection.
• Touch tracking: A feature that allows you to tap on a subject on the camera's screen to keep it in focus as it moves.
• Waveform monitor: A visual tool that shows the brightness levels in your video, helping ensure proper exposure.
• XAVC S-I, XAVC HS-L, XAVC S-L: Different video file formats used by the cameras.
• XLR: A type of professional audio connection.
• Zebra patterns: Diagonal lines that appear in your viewfinder to indicate areas of the image that might be overexposed.