IBC 2016: Panasonic, Codex unveil new RAW VariCam system
Panasonic will introduce a new cinema-ready version of the VariCam 35 at IBC 2016, featuring a jointly developed Codex recorder capable of uncompressed, 4K RAW acquisition.
Panasonic VariCam Pure
The “VariCam Pure” is the latest addition to the company’s family of professional cinematography products. A “co-production” between Panasonic and Codex, it couples the existing VariCam 35 camera head with a new Codex V-RAW 2.0 recorder, ideal for episodic television shows and features.
The V-RAW 2.0 recorder attaches directly to the back of the VariCam 35 camera head. As a result, the camera retains the same Super 35 sensor, 14+ stops of latitude and dual native 800/5000 ISO as the original VariCam 35.
“The new VariCam Pure camera system records pure, uncompressed RAW up to 120 fps onto the industry-standard Codex Capture Drive 2.0 media, already widely used by many camera systems, post facilities and studios,” says Panasonic Senior Product Manager Steven Cooperman. “There is significant demand for uncompressed RAW recording in the high-end market. The modular concept of the VariCam has enabled us to meet this demand.
“We’ve also listened to feedback from cinematographers and camera operators and ensured that the VariCam Pure is rugged, compact and lightweight, weighing just 11 pounds.”
Codex will provide the most efficient dailies and archiving workflow available through its Production Suite. In addition, the Codex Virtual File system means users can transfer many file formats including Panasonic VRAW, Apple ProRes, and Avid DNxHR.
Using the Codex Capture Drive means a reliable workflow from digital capture to post production. Along with the original camera negative, frame-accurate metadata (such as lens and CDL data) can also be captured, streamlining production and post-production, and delivering time and cost savings.
The V-RAW 2.0 recorder for VariCam Pure is scheduled for release in December 2016 with a suggested list price of $30,000. The camera will be showcased at IBC 2016 at Stand C45, Hall 11.