SONY Super 35mm 4K CMOS sensor compact CineAlta camera records HD/2K/4K on SxS memory plus 16-bit RAW 2K/4K output PMW-F55

The Sony PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera features an 8.9MP Super 35mm image sensor capable of capturing 4K, 2K, and HD resolution video in a variety of formats via the camera’s internal recorder. The F55 is among the first digital motion picture cameras with a global shutter, which completely eliminates motion skew and other rolling shutter distortions. Sony has designed the F55 as the foundation of an exceptionally versatile and modular system.

Optional components of the F55 system include bolt-on recording units, a series of digital viewfinders, and camera support rigs, all sold separately. Notably, the AXS-R5 recorder (sold separately) can be mounted onto the rear of the F55, enabling 4K and 2K 16-bit raw recording and high-speed frame rates up to 240 fps in 2K (240 fps 2K and 60 fps 4K/2K will require a free firmware upgrade). In keeping with Sony’s mandate on versatility, the F55 has a native FZ mount which will provide an interface for Sony’s SCL-Z18x140 auto focus servo zoom lens (sold separately) as well as a wide range of lens adapters, such as the included PL mount adapter.

Many digital sensors can match and even surpass traditional motion picture film for resolution and low-light image quality, but with approximately 14.3 stops of dynamic range, film has maintained an advantage over most digital sensors. However, the F55’s exposure latitude is rated at 14 stops of dynamic range, for truly filmlike rendering of highlights and shadows. Moreover, the F55 incorporates the same color filter array technology used in Sony’s flagship F65, for a color gamut that is even wider than motion picture film.

Onboard 4K recording requires high data rate recording media, and the F55 will use Sony’s newly developed SxS PRO+ memory cards. A 128GB card will provide enough space for approximately 40 minutes of 4K video in the XAVC Intra 422 format. SxS PRO+ cards will also allow onboard recording of 2K video at up to 180 frames per second (requires a free firmware upgrade) as well as SStP 4:4:4 at 440 Mb/s when set to RGB.