Sony FX30 Digital Cinema Camera with XLR Handle Unit

Utilizing the capabilities of an advanced APS-C sensor, the Sony FX30 offers both everyday content creators and emerging filmmakers a robust yet user-friendly cinema camera, enabling them to elevate their cinematic endeavors. This camera integrates a sophisticated imaging pipeline tailored for cinematic production with an extensive array of features and intuitive controls, forming a comprehensive system suitable for filmmakers at every stage of their journey.

26MP APS-C/Super35 Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor

The FX30 features a sophisticated imaging system that rivals other models within Sony's Cinema Line, enabling it to produce intricate 10-bit UHD 4K visuals at frame rates of up to 120 fps, thereby aligning its specifications with those of a genuine cinema camera. It is equipped with a newly engineered 26MP APS-C Exmor R CMOS sensor and a BIONZ XR processor, which work together to deliver superior 4K imagery utilizing the Super35 (16:9) format. This advanced system can achieve over 14 stops of dynamic range and incorporates Dual Base ISO technology to enhance performance in low-light conditions.

Advanced Capture Options

• High-sensitivity recording up to ISO 32000 and Dual Base ISO (800/2500).
  
  
• When using S-Log3, the FX30 can capture 14+ stops of dynamic range.
  
  
• Record in 10-bit 4:2:2 using advanced XAVC HS and XAVC S-I formats.
  
  
• Full pixel readout from the 6K sensor creates high-quality UHD 4K video at up to 60 fps.
  
  
• High-speed shooting is possible in 4K at up to 120 fps with a 1.6x crop and in Full HD at up to 240 fps.
  
  
• The HDMI output supports 16-bit raw video to select, separately available recorders.
  
  

Professional Picture Control

Filmmakers will have the capability to obtain images that are instantly ready for publication for projects requiring quick turnarounds, or they can choose to prioritize superior quality and adaptability in post-production, facilitated by a diverse range of picture control options.

S-Cinetone provides a cinematic appearance without the need for color grading

The S-Cinetone picture profile delivers a cinematic aesthetic in terms of color, skin tones, and other visual elements directly from the camera, eliminating the necessity for post-production color grading.

The S-Log3 format offers boundless opportunities for creative expression.

The FX30 is equipped to shoot with an S-Log3 gamma curve, enabling precise production color matching and full utilization of the image sensor's capabilities. This feature provides access to the extensive color gamut of the FX30 and offers over 14 stops of dynamic range, ensuring authentic cinematic image quality during the post-production color grading process.

User LUTs provide an accurate image preview

The FX30 allows for the application of customizable LUTs, including both preset and user-generated options, to its LCD monitor display, recorded footage, and HDMI output. This feature enhances your ability to visualize the final image with greater precision. You can configure up to 16 user-defined LUTs along with three preset options for effective monitoring of footage or for previewing a desired aesthetic during shooting. These LUTs can be utilized on the camera's monitor, electronic viewfinder (EVF), and HDMI output.

Operation for All Levels

Professional features will help ensure beginners to professionals can make the most of the FX30. This includes three log shooting modes:

• Flexible ISO uses standard ISO settings for simple operation and the greatest flexibility.
  
  
• Cine EI ensures maximum dynamic range capture by recording at a manually selected base ISO setting and applying adjustments to metadata for monitoring and post-production.
  
  
• Cine EI quick will automatically switch between the two base ISO settings for easier operation and great quality.
  
  

Intuitive Operation and Controls

5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization

Sony has integrated a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system into the FX30, ensuring the production of smooth visuals, even during handheld operation. An Active Mode is provided, which combines optical stabilization with digital enhancements to achieve exceptionally smooth footage. Additionally, the FX30 is capable of recording gyro movement when the optical stabilizers are disabled, allowing for stabilization in post-production to achieve a steady shot.

Fast Hybrid AF

Experience exceptional autofocus performance characterized by high speed and precision across all modes, including 4K at 120 fps, facilitated by a sophisticated Fast Hybrid AF system that incorporates 495 points distributed over 90% of the image sensor.

• Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking will track the eyes of humans and animals.
  
  
• AF Assist function will automatically switch to manual focus with a turn of the lens' focus ring.
  
  
• Focus Map makes it easier to visualize the region of focus in your scene
  
  

Comprehensive Feature Set

Plenty of Sony's cinema features have found their way into the FX30:

• Breathing compensation works with select lenses in 4K up to 60p in camera or up to 120p using Catalyst software after recording.
  
  
• Timecode sync input with optional VMC-BNCM1 Timecode Adapter Cable
  
  
• Tally lights for an easy indication that the camera is recording.
  
  

Media Options

The FX30 is equipped with a sophisticated and adaptable array of media slots designed for capturing high-bitrate footage at elevated frame rates. This camera includes dual slots for CFexpress Type A and SD cards, enabling users to choose between various media formats based on their specific needs. CFexpress Type A offers exceptionally high speeds suitable for the FX30's most advanced recording capabilities, while SD cards, being more widely used, still provide commendable speed and substantial storage capacities.

Catalyst Browse and Prepare Integration

The FX30 records a comprehensive array of metadata that can be read and used for advanced post-production work using Sony's Catalyst Browse and Prepare software.

Metadata recorded includes:

• Embedded LUT and Exposure Index (EI) data.
  
  
• Gyro and lens stabilization metadata to further reduce camera shake.
  
  
• Breathing compensation can be manually controlled and adjusted.
  
  
• Camera rotation metadata will ensure the footage is displayed as intended.
  
  
• Shot marks can be added to clips during or after recording for reference
  
  

Ergonomic Form for Solo Operation

The FX30, designed to complement the FX3, is both lightweight and compact, allowing users to shoot without the necessity of a cage. It also provides the advantage of capturing smooth handheld footage, thanks to its 5-axis in-body image stabilization system.

The camera body is equipped with several threaded mounting points, making it suitable for various accessories, and includes a Multi Interface Shoe that accommodates advanced attachments. Furthermore, an integrated fan guarantees consistent performance during prolonged recording sessions.

• Lightweight body weighs just 1.2 lb.
  
  
• Dedicated zoom rocker.
  
  
• Fully customizable button layout.
  
  
• Five 1/4"-20 threaded mounting points for accessories.
  
  
• Multi Interface Shoe supports advanced accessories.
  
  
• Active cooling fan permits uninterrupted shooting during extended takes.
  
  
• Sporting a matching design to the FX3, the FX30 can use many of the same accessories, such as cages, without any modifications required.
  
  

Updated Menu System

The FX30 benefits from a tweaked control menu that makes it more intuitive to operate:

• The main menu provides a quick view of all your most important video settings, including Picture Profile, recording format, white balance, aperture, ISO, and more.
  
  
• The shooting screen relocates the information on settings and status icons to the edges of the screen so that the image remains clear.
  
  

A Plethora of Connectivity Options

The FX30 is equipped with a wide array of connections to ensure maximum customization and flexibility on set:

• Full-size HDMI output features clean output up to 4K 60p as well as 16-bit raw video.
  
  
• Audio is supported on the body with a 3.5mm headphone output and a 3.5mm microphone input.
  
  
• USB-C connection can be used for high-speed data transfer or for powering the camera.
  
  
• Multi-Terminal (Micro-USB) supports various accessories, such as remotes, for expanded functionality.
  
  
• Timecode sync is available through the use of the separately available VMC-BNCM1 Timecode Adapter Cable.
  
  
• Multi Interface Shoe supports advanced accessories, including the optional XLR Handle Unit.
  
  

Sony XLR-H1 XLR Handle Unit

Enhance your FX3 or FX30 experience with the Sony XLR-H1 XLR Handle Unit, which provides two full XLR inputs for improved ergonomic handling. This unit features two XLR/TRS combo inputs and a 3.5mm microphone input. For streamlined operation, the handle is equipped with physical controls and dials positioned on the side, complete with protective covers to prevent unintentional adjustments during recording.

Furthermore, the unit includes a microphone holder designed for securely attaching a shotgun microphone to your setup. This holder fastens to the camera's Multi Interface Shoe using two screws. Additionally, there are three 1/4"-20 accessory mounting threads available for further customization.