Sony Unveils Latest 4K PTZ Camera Offering At NAB

Sony has unveiled its latest 4K pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera offering at the 2019 NAB Show.

The IP-based BRC-X400 camera, the first in Sony's PTZ range to feature NDI®|HX capability, is well-suited for a range of broadcast applications from studio to reality TV shows as well as for shooting within large venues, including event halls and houses of worships (HoW).

The option for NDI|HX enables unprecedented flexibility for IP-based live production systems when combined with other NDI-compatible hardware or software, anywhere on a network. An efficient live production set-up is made even more possible with connection allowed via a single IP cable including power supply, image output as well as camera controls. Additionally, Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) and Real Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP) are also supported.

"Sony has nearly two decades of experience in developing IP solutions for the broadcast industry and we remain committed to enabling leading IP-based premium live production with support for SMPTE ST 2110 standard both in HD and 4K," commented Norbert Paquet, Head of Product Management at Sony Professional Solutions Europe. "The BRC series continues to lay the foundation for practical and cost-effective 4K robotic PTZ applications. Responding to our customers' requests, the BRC-X400 will support NDI|HX for the first time in this range and aims to expand our IP footprint to enable cost-efficient productions. We look forward to working closely with NewTek to further add value to our customers."

"This collaboration with Sony symbolises a significant step for the industry," said Dr. Andrew Cross, president and CTO for NewTek. "Sony is a clear leader in the global transition to IP-based technologies with a long history of building revolutionary broadcast systems. The world has moved to IP video and we are proud to be working with Sony to help make their latest PTZ camera BRC-X400 connect with the millions of NDI systems around the world. We believe that Sony can empower users to build more agile, flexible and affordable systems that provide live productions with more freedom with its simpler connectivity and hassle-free operation."

The BRC-X400 effortlessly achieves high picture quality, natural colour reproduction and delivers 4K30p with minimum noise, thanks to its newly-developed highly sensitive Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor. The camera's built-in high resolution 4K lens accommodates wide-angle shots of up to 70 degrees and is equipped with 30x powerful zoom capability in 4K thanks to Sony's unique Clear Image Zoom feature. Further enhancing its offering, users can utilise the 80x zoom capability in Full High Definition (FHD) with Tele Convert Mode. Additionally, horizontal resolution 1700 TV line (Centre) in 4K and 1000 or higher TV line in FHD (Centre) captures details of the image.

Allowing seamless switching during live events and reality shows, the BRC-X400 comes with broadcast-friendly features such as tally lamps and support for genlock. The PTZ camera is also equipped with a newly available function, Scene File, which enables fast and easy set-up by allowing users to apply the same operating menu from one camera to another.

The latest addition to the BRC series can be seamlessly integrated into existing broadcast system workflows thanks to its vast support of a range of camera control protocols (including the 700 protocol for Sony's broadcast cameras, CGI as well as VISCA / VISCA over IP). It is also future-proofed for future expansion or upgrades, giving customers ease of mind. Furthermore, the BRC-X400 can be used with Sony's other cutting-edge solutions such as its first AI-based video analytic solution, the REA-C1000. A simple, cost-effective chroma key solution in 4K high picture quality can also be achieved using its chroma keyless CG overlay feature which extracts the presenter and overlays them onto any background without the need for a dedicated backscreen or specialist training.

The BRC-X400 will be available by the end of 2019 in both black and white.

Sony will be exhibiting at NAB 2019 on stand C11001 Central Hall, C-5, Las Vegas Convention Centre from 08-11 April.