Sony VTK-Z280 Remote Production Package with PXW-Z280 & Network RX Station

Sony’s PXW-Z280 4K 3-CMOS 1/2″ Sensor XDCAM Camcorder continues the fine tradition of the XDCAM series of cameras. It captures 4K at up to 60p relying on three 1/2″ Exmor R sensors that provide improved low-light capability when compared to standard sensors. The camera integrates a 17x optical zoom lens and an electronic variable ND filter. The camera supports modern codecs such as XAVC, as well as legacy codecs such as MPEG HD and DVCAM, allowing you to use one camera to shoot 4K, HD, or SD video.

The camera supports S-Log 3 for improved performance, and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) which allows you to shoot and deliver footage compatible with both HDR (high dynamic range) and SDR (standard dynamic range) without needing laborious post-production work. You can record in both 4K and HD simultaneously, or output 4K 60p via the built-in 12G-SDI output. The camera features built-in 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi.

The Sony BP-U70 is a high-performance 72Wh lithium-ion battery compatible with select Sony professional video cameras, such as the FS7 (see below). It’s designed to communicate status data to the camera, and remaining capacity is displayed on the camera’s viewfinder. This battery is rechargeable in approximately 150 minutes using the optional BC-U1A/U2A charger. A 4-LED gauge displays remaining capacity as 20, 40, 60, and 80%.

The MEAD-SD02 SDHC/SDXC Card Adapter from Sony enables the use of a Class 10 SDHC/SDXC memory card, including UHS-1, in the ExpressCard slot of XDCAM EX equipment, such as camcorders and recording decks. It will also work with other ExpressCard compatible hardware, such as Windows and Mac computers and storage drives.

Although the SxS PRO and SxS-1 cards intended for the memory slots in XDCAM models offer higher performance, SDHC and SDXC cards are more readily available in a pinch when additional memory is required. This adapter, which is the same size as an SxS memory card, provides a viable solution in this type of situation.

Please note that use of the slow motion recording function is not recommended, due to the speed limitations of SD cards. XDCAM EX hardware may require a firmware upgrade in order to support the use of the adapter.

The SMADP3D Multi-Interface Shoe Adapter from Sony is for a camera or a camcorder using a Multi-Interface shoe connection. It can be used for receiving a 2-channel audio signal from a Sony URX-P03D wireless receiver without XLR cables. No need for separate cables. Power is supplied by the camera and can be switched on or off from the camera or camcorder.

WindTech’s 300 Series Windscreens for 1-3/8″ Diameter Microphones (3 Pack, Black) are designed to fit any microphone measuring 1-3/8″ (35mm) in diameter. These Black windscreens offer optimum wind diffusion and will fit select AKG, Audio-Technica, Audix, Beyerdynamic, Telex, Sennheiser and Crown Models.

The Porta Brace Protective Rain Cover for Sony PXW-Z280 features a resilient exterior made of nylon Taslan, while the interior is lined with a soft tricot material that helps prevent unwanted scratches and is more comfortable on your skin than nylon. The nylon exterior is waterproof and breathable so while your camera is covered, it won’t overheat. Clear vinyl windows and strategically placed openings for control access allow for easy operation without letting moisture in.

A quick-change battery back area allows you to swiftly swap out batteries without exposing the camera to the elements. Extra cover material provides extra protection from the rain, and the cover creates a tight fit around the lens hood. Your camera remains tripod-mountable, even with the rain cover on. the cover can be used on the camera when tripod-mounted, shoulder-mounted, or when shooting handheld.

The Sony ECM-MS2 Stereo Electret Condenser Microphone is designed for mounting on professional camcorders equipped with 2 XLR inputs and phantom powering. The microphone also delivers good sound performance in field and studio-production applications. The MS microphone signal of the ECM-MS2 microphone is internally decoded, and provides L and R (stereo) outputs. The MS2 stereo microphone also supports mono operation by simply unplugging the right channel (disabling phantom power from the right channel XLR connector).

The Sony URX-P03D dual-channel camera-mount wireless receiver gives you the ability to simultaneously receive audio from two UWP-D series transmitters. Fast and easy to set up with frequency auto-scan and IR sync functions, the receiver uses digital audio processing to deliver uncompromising sound quality for cameramen, videographers, vloggers, and journalists working in the field.

The compact URX-P03D fits neatly on any size camcorder or DSLR camera using the included shoemount adapter. Sony shooters can take advantage of the SMAD-P3D dual-channel MI (Multi-Interface) Shoe adapter (available separately), which lets you mount the receiver onto select cameras equipped with a Multi Interface Shoe, while providing a clean and direct audio connection without cables.

The URX-P03D features a wide 72 MHz bandwidth with 2772 UHF frequencies to choose from. It employs true-diversity technology for a reliable reception, even under difficult shooting conditions. You can operate up to 16 mics per frequency band in one location.

A 3.5mm external mic input allows you to connect an additional wired microphone, while the integrated 3-channel mixer enables you to control your mic levels as well as assign outputs as needed.

Other features include a large LCD display for easy access to controls, a headphone output, and USB connection for use with a power pack. Two AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH rechargeable type) power the receiver for up to 5 hours.

The URX-P03D is backward-compatible with Sony WL-800 and UWP Series systems.

The 470 to 542 MHz version of the Sony UTX-B03 Bodypack Transmitter with Omni Lavalier Microphone features an all-metal chassis, an easy to read LCD display, a wide switching RF bandwidth, USB power and charging options, infrared synchronization between transmitter and receiver, a Mic/Line switchable input, and digital companding circuitry to improve the transient response of received audio. The package is suitable for a wide range of wireless applications such as ENG (electronic news gathering), documentary work, talk shows, conferences, and more.

The system utilizes UHF Phase Locked Loop (PLL) synthesis to lock the phase of the transmission frequency between transmitter and receiver. The transmitter and receiver can be linked to an available transmission frequency via infrared. An LCD display provides channel and frequency information, battery life, RF level, audio status and accumulated operating time.

For power, the transmitter operates on two AA batteries for up to 8 hours, or on 5 VDC of USB power over a USB micro B cable. The USB connection can also be used to recharge Ni-MH rechargeable batteries within the battery cartridge.

The unit features a mic- and line-level switch for standard wired microphone- or line-level sources with adjustable attenuation. Selectable transmission output power provides a choice between 5mW output, which is suitable for simultaneous multi-channel operation, or 30mW output for long distance transmission.

The transmitter is referred to as integrated digital because it utilizes DSP to compand the transmission signal. Performing the companding and expanding processes in the digital domain improves the accuracy and transient response of the received audio.

The unit comes with an omnidirectional electret condenser lavalier microphone, a windscreen for the microphone, a microphone holder clip, and a belt clip.

The 470 to 542 MHz version of the Sony UTX-P03 Plug-On Transmitter features an all-metal chassis, an easy to read LCD display, a wide switching RF bandwidth, USB power and charging options, automatic channel scanning, infrared synchronization between transmitter and receiver, a Mic/Line switchable input, +48V phantom power, and digital companding circuitry. The transmitter is suitable for a wide range of wireless applications such as ENG (Electronic News Gathering), documentary work, talk shows, conferences, and more.

The transmitter is referred to as integrated digital because it utilizes DSP for digital companding and expanding of the transmission signal. Performing the companding and expanding processes in the digital domain improves the accuracy and transient response of the received audio.

The system utilizes UHF Phase Locked Loop (PLL) synthesis to lock the phase of the transmission frequency between transmitter and receiver. The receiver can automatically search for an available transmission frequency and link the desired frequency to the transmitter via infrared connection. An LCD display provides channel AND frequency information, battery life, RF-input level, audio-output status and accumulated operating time.

For power, the transmitter operates on two AA batteries for up to six hours, or on 5 VDC of USB power over a USB micro B cable. The USB connection can also be used to recharge Ni-MH rechargeable batteries within the battery cartridge.

The transmitter features a mic- and line-level switch for standard wired microphone- or line-level sources. The plug-on transmitter also features selectable +48V of phantom power for connection to a condenser microphone. Selectable transmission output power provides a choice between 5mW output, which is suitable for simultaneous multi-channel operation, or 30mW output for long distance transmission. The transmitter comes with a soft case.

The Sony F112 is a professional, omnidirectional microphone designed for Electronic New Gathering (ENG) applications. The F112’s frequency response and sensitivity are optimized for accurate reproduction of vocals, accentuating the range that enhances clarity while reducing residual noise. The omnidirectional pattern results in minimal noise from wind, with even signal reproduction at the sides and direct sections of the capsule. This is particularly useful while vying for the best possible microphone placement in awkward, crowded environments. The extra-long shaft allows plenty of room for radio and TV flags, and the rugged enclosure is durable enough to withstand frequent use on location.

The EC-1.5BX 3-pole Locking Mini-Plug to XLR Cable (Female) from Sony is ideal for use with your UWP Series Portable Tuner.

The MDR-7506 is a staple within the recording, film and live arenas. Due to its low impedance and closed-ear design, these headphones do an outstanding job of cutting down background noise while providing plenty of volume in the studio or in the field. Additionally, the closed design helps eliminate headphone bleed when overdubbing in the studio.

The MDR-7506 is an over-ear design and is ideal for use with MIDI workstations, camcorders, or other equipment with less than powerful headphone amplification. The headphone has a foldable design, making it convenient to store or transport, and its coiled cable allows it to stretch and spring back into place whenever you need a bit more reach.

The Audio-Technica AT8314 Premium Microphone Cable features professional XLR-male to XLR-female Neutrik connectors and is designed specifically for low-impedance microphone signals. The cable is sure to deliver maximum signal transfer and minimum loss due to a combination of its heavy-duty construction, inner and outer protective RF shielding and heavy-duty 24-gauge stranded copper conductors.

The Sony HVL-LBPC LED Battery Video Light is a high-brightness bicolor on-camera light designed to provide a wide spread for wide-angle shooting. It provides an even intensity across the entire spread. It offers up to an 1800 lux brightness at 3.3′ with low power consumption. You can further increase the brightness to 2100 lux at 3.3′ by setting the Booster switch to “on”, but this will be at a higher power consumption. Color temperature is adjustable between 3200 and 5600K via a dial on the side.

The light features built-in barndoors, a flip-down diffuser, and a condenser lens. It has an L-series battery plate and includes a BP-series battery plate adapter. Batteries are sold separately. An NP-F970 L-series battery provides approximately three hours of runtime. The runtime can be prolonged in Standby mode, which has a power consumption of only 0.1W or less.

This light features the proprietary Sony Multi-Interface shoe. When it’s mounted directly on Multi-Interface shoe mounts available on cameras such as the Sony NXCAM and XDCAM camcorders, it can be set up to power on/off when the camera is powered on/off or when recording is set to start/stop. Either option can be assigned in the camera settings. A standard shoe mount adapter is also included for attaching the light to standard camera shoe mounts. A mini desktop stand is also supplied for off-camera use.

The Sony BP-U30 is a lithium-ion battery designed for professional video shooting in both the field and the studio. This battery is equipped with the INFO function that communicates battery status data to the PMW-EX1 camcorder.

Travel by plane or other methods with larger video bodies and related gear thanks to the well-designed, gray Video Transport 20 Carry-On Case from Think Tank. The case features a spacious main compartment with an ample assortment of movable, padded dividers, bolsters for organizing and protecting your gear, and a separate laptop compartment. A hinged, double-zippered lid speeds access to equipment and keeps the clear mesh, zippered pockets under the lid handy. The light gray interior lining makes finding items in low light easier. And for storing accessories, there’s a large, zippered exterior pocket. A rear pocket and adjustable straps may be used to attach a tripod or other gear.

Users will appreciate the built-in TSA-accepted security lock and the padded grab handles on the top and side of the case. There’s also a business card holder on top and a security tag that can be registered should your case be lost. High-performance 80mm super quiet wheels with ABEC5 rated sealed bearings and a retractable trolley handle enable fast travel over smooth ground. For strength and durability, the Video Transport 20 is constructed of water-repellant 1680D ballistic nylon and other fine materials. Tall skid plates and Hypalon reinforced corners help protect the back and bottom of the case from damage. And for added security, the case features a plastic-wrapped metal cord for attaching to stationary objects, such as a fence or pole.

Featuring the lightweight 75mm Focus 8 Fluid Head with a Sliding Plate System, this Cartoni Kit is designed for entry-level users who shoot with up to 17.7 lb of load. The Focus 8 provides perfect balance along its entire +/-90° tilt range, and features continuous counterbalance adjustment.

The kit also includes the APTP2 Aluminum Dual-Stage Tripod Legs, which feature 27-60.6″ height adjustment and non-slip flip clamps, a mid-level spreader, rubber tripod feet, and a soft carry case with foam interior, leather handles, shoulder strap, and exterior pockets. Everything is designed, manufactured, and assembled at the Cartoni factory in Rome, Italy. The Focus 8 Fluid Head comes with the peace of mind of a five-year warranty, and all the other items retain their standard one-year warranty.

The Focus 8 consists of 127 parts, machined or cast to micrometric precision and hand-assembled and adjusted to precision by one engineer at a time. A follow-up to the Cartoni Focus HD head and an evolution of the original Focus head, this Focus 8 incorporates the same quick release plate system as on the Sachtler Ace and Manfrotto video heads, and integrates a new composite material in many parts that allows for a solid build while keeping the weight down. Of course, it also features Cartoni’s renowned counterbalance and very smooth, “true” fluid drag. The Focus 8 uses the same patented spring-loaded counterbalance system used in the original Focus head.

The new composite material that’s used is a sophisticated non-metal that’s much stronger than aluminum, and yet lighter. It is used in the tilt fluid knobs, pan fluid gears, and other parts throughout the body. This composite is also highly resistant to the stress of weight, bending, rubbing, and extreme temperatures, so where it’s used in the mechanisms of the head it actually provides for more stress endurance, in addition to saving weight. This composite is the result of a collaboration between Cartoni and the Department of Physics and Engineering at Sapienza University of Rome.

The Focus 8 features a Cartoni-patented labyrinth modular fluid drag system, which consists of individual pan and tilt modules. Each module contains two main sections that have thin concentric rings inside them. The rings in one section interact with the rings in the other, with aerospace industry silicon paste fluid between them that provides resistance. The two sections are never fully disengaged from one another, so movement is always smooth and with no play. With there being separate pan and tilt modules, pan drag and tilt drag are accordingly independent, yet work together to allow smooth, uninterrupted motion in any direction. Cartoni performs a laser-assisted, diagonal movement test on every head to ensure that there isn’t even the slightest digression from a straight-line movement.

The pan drag control is a large ring in the center of the head that’s easy to use even without looking. This and all other controls are designed with ergonomic grips that will feel secure between your fingers. A pan bar is included that can be attached to a rosette adapter on either side of the head, and additional pan bars are available and sold separately.

The Network RX Station from Sony is an advanced system for live streaming video and audio directly from select XDCAM camcorders using 4G/LTE and Wi-Fi networks at up to 5 Mb/s. The station uses QoS (quality of service) technology or MPEG2-TS to maintain video and audio integrity during transmission. It can simultaneously control two SDI outputs for live stream from two locations at the same time. Multiple systems can be added for greater input and output loads.
The unit includes reference and timecode input connectors which enable synchronized operation with broadcast systems. In addition, it can output in a variety of broadcast formats including 1080i. The system comes with the preinstalled Connection Control Manager software that enables easy connection to camcorders and delivers efficient handling of the live streams.