Unlocking Cinematic Potential: The Next Generation of Compact Cinema Cameras
Revolutionary Sensor and Open Gate Recording Capabilities
The FX5 features a brand-new 16.6-megapixel stacked full-frame sensor, a notable increase from its predecessor's 12-megapixel sensor. For the first time in a camera of this type, Sony has integrated open-gate video recording, allowing users to fully utilize the sensor's 3:2 aspect ratio. This innovative feature expands video resolution from 4K to 5K, providing filmmakers with a wider canvas and greater flexibility for reframing and creative compositions.
Enhanced Performance and Advanced Processing Power
Beyond resolution, the FX5 delivers impressive frame rate improvements, supporting 120 frames per second in 5K and up to 240 frames per second in 4K, ideal for stunning slow-motion sequences. The camera now offers internal 16-bit RAW recording, eliminating the need for external monitors for high-quality capture. It also boasts a triple-base ISO and features the same Bionz XR2 twin processor and AI chip found in the latest Sony A7R VI. This powerful combination enhances subject-tracking autofocus and significantly improves low-light performance, ensuring crisp and clear footage in challenging conditions.
Ergonomics and Power: Designed for Extended Shoots
Maintaining a similar form factor to the FX3, the FX5 weighs only slightly more at 750g. It retains multiple on-body mounting points and customizable buttons, crucial for versatile filmmaking setups. A key ergonomic upgrade is a more robust handgrip, which now accommodates Sony's new high-capacity NP-SA100 battery. This battery, also introduced with the A7R VI, extends recording time by approximately 30%, allowing for about 170 minutes of continuous 5K recording.
Refined User Interface and Monitoring Tools
The FX5 adopts a video-centric user interface, mirroring Sony's high-end cinema cameras like the Venice, Burano, and FX6. Design improvements include a multi-function dial, a multi-selector joystick, and a tally lamp for improved usability. For precise monitoring, the camera integrates professional tools such as false color, waveform, vector, and focus map, alongside existing features like histogram, zebra, and peaking tools.
Pricing, Availability, and Future Upgrades
The FX5 is priced starting at ﾣ4,700 for the body only, with a bundle including a new top handle available for ﾣ5,200. While the dual card slots support both SD and Sony's CFexpress Type A cards, users should note the premium cost of Type A cards. The camera and accessories are slated for release in August. Some advanced features, including 4K240p, 5K120p, vertical UI, screen-grab, and Open Gate in XAVC codec, will be rolled out via a V2 firmware update, with timing to be announced. Despite these staggered releases, the FX5 is anticipated to become a staple in low-budget productions, offering a comprehensive suite of upgrades that filmmakers have long desired.