Panasonic announces HC-X1 handheld 4K camcorder

Panasonic’s new HC-X1 camcorder, shown with the optional Panasonic AG-MC200G microphone. (Source: Panasonic.)

Featuring a 1-inch MOS sensor and 20x zoom Leica Dicomar lens, the HC-X1 can record in Cinema 4K (4096 x 2160) at 24p, 4K (3840 x 2160) at 50p/60p, dual 4K and FHD (via dual SD cards) and Infrared. It includes a wide array of functions and customisable controls that streamline workflow to increase productivity and simplify operation. The HC-X1’s lens barrel features Triple Manual Rings for quick zoom, focus and iris operation. There are 13 customisable buttons, nine on the body and four on the LCD touch screen, which can be assigned to different functions to improve workflow.
The 3.5-inch monitor built into the camcorder handle can be pulled out and turned vertically 270 degrees for easy high or low-angle shooting, and the tilting approx. 1.77 million dot OLED electronic viewfinder allows precise framing and provides a bright view when shooting in low lighting. A built-in variable ND filter with 1/4, 1/16 or 1/64 settings allows additional exposure control in bright conditions, while Gain and White Balance settings can be changed in camera. Manual focus assist functions include MF Assist, One-Push AF, Expand/Peak, Focus Transition and Focus Area selection.
The HC-X1 is equipped with two XLR audio input channels with switchable +48V phantom power and manual volume controls, allowing the use of professional microphones to record high-quality sound in either 16-bit linear PCM when shooting MOV/MP4 video, or Dolby Digital audio when shooting AVCHD video. With the optional AJ-WM30E wireless module (sold separately), the HC-X1 can be remotely controlled with an iPad and the Panasonic AG-ROP app ““ offering even greater flexibility when shooting solo projects or working in teams. The HC-X1 is designed to support commercial video production, with features including a wired remote terminal, OSD level meter, 1-kHz test tone output and headphone output (3.5mm stereo mini jack). Dual SD card slots allow recordings to be matched to the user’s workflow or project requirements by offering simultaneous or continuous recording, background recording or dual codec recording.

Users can select from seven Gamma settings including two types of CINE-LIKE gamma and the HC-X1 also supports 16-Axis Independent Colour Correction, contour adjustment and six sets of image quality settings. 5-Axis HYBRID O.I.S. + combines electronic image stabilisation with optical image stabilisation to suppress blur, including roll rotation. Slow motion and VFR (variable frame rate) recording are also available, along with LCD/EVF displays to assist shooting. Pricing will be announced closer to the release date. For more information, visit www.panasonic.com.au or call 132 600.