Sony’s new HXR-NX5R may be only one letter off from its predecessor, the HXR-NX5U, but the professional camcorder sees a number of new upgrades that aim to eliminate the need for external accessories, including live wireless broadcasting. Sony says the camcorder is also the first to include a built-in video light with adjustable levels.
The camcorder’s built-in Wi-Fi can be used for live broadcasts or file transfers to an FTP site. The NX5R is compatible with the Sony UWP-D series wireless microphones.
In what Sony is calling an industry first, the NX5R utilizes a built-in video light to minimize the need for external equipment. The light is adjustable through a simple dial at the side.
Dials and controls are also an improvement — the camera includes a new joystick that, combined with some direct function buttons, can be used to adjust a number of different settings menu-free.
“The HXR-NX5R’s flexible operations, file transfer options and easy-to-use features are designed for professionals who need to quickly and easily shoot, edit, and deliver high-quality content,” Sebastian Scala, Pro Video marketing manager for Sony’s Professional Solutions Americas group, said in a press release. “It’s ideal for corporate or event/wedding production, news gathering, documentaries, online content creation, nature, sports, and more.”
Compared to the earlier NX5U, the latest version doubles the optical zoom to 40x. The camera still uses a three-sensor system and hasn’t yet ventured into 4K. Multiple HD recording formats are now available, however, including high-bit-rate XAVC S at 50Mbps and AVCHD/DV.
With the new camcorder, Sony also introduced the RM-30BP, a new remote control with a wide array of different shooting settings, including manual focus, zoom, and exposure settings. For videographers using more than one rig, the MCX-500, also announced today, is a new switcher designed for live broadcasts from multiple rigs.
While Sony hasn’t yet included pricing details, the NX5R is expected out next month, with the remote to follow in October and the switcher in January 2017.
