AW recording, Apple ProRes 422 and multi-cam with Sony’s extension unit
To keep the PXW-FS7 II small, light and easily hand-holdable, Sony engineers reserved some functions for an outboard module, the XDCA-FS7 extension unit, sold separately. The unit adds significant capabilities:
- External RAW recording: To preserve the maximum in colour, contrast and resolution, the XDCA-FS7 enables RAW recording when connected to outboard recorders, sold separately. The XDCA-FS7 supports the vivid colour of 12-bit linear RAW at either 4K or 2K resolution. A single BNC cable connects the XDCA-FS7 to compatible RAW recorders including Sony’s HXR-IFR5/AXS-R5 combination and the Convergent Design® Odyssey 7Q+ equipped with the Sony FS RAW option. In addition, the Atomos® Shogun Inferno and Shogun Flame support Apple ProRes and CDNG recording from the XDCA-FS7 output. Even when you record outboard RAW, you can still record time code-synchronised Full HD on-board, a convenient proxy for offline editing
- Apple ProRes 422 recording: Sony understands that some workflows are committed to the Apple ProRes 422 codec. That’s why the XDCA-FS7 supports Apple ProRes 422 and Apple ProRes 422 HQ – 1920 x 1080 recording to an XQD™ card in the camera
- Multi-camera operation: The XDCA-FS7 also provides genlock and timecode In/Out for multi-camera shoots
Built-in electronic variable ND Filters
Originally developed for the PXW-FS5, Sony’s ground-breaking integration of electronic variable ND Filters into the body of a Super 35mm camcorder enables fast, agile shooting. Moving from shadowy interiors to bright sun-lit exteriors is no problem with the FS7 II. Unlike conventional optical ND Filters, the electronic ND Filter on the FS7 II can be controlled from 1/4ND to 1/128ND linearly while ND Filters can be set to fully auto. You can even manually adjust depth of field using the iris lens ring, while relying on the FS7 II to maintain constant exposure without changing gain nor shutter speed.