Sony FX5 Cinema Camera Debuts With 5K Recording and Advanced AI Features

​Sony has introduced the FX5, the latest model in its compact cinema camera lineup. The FX5 arrives at a higher price point than previous models, while the FX3 remains available. The FX5 brings several new features that may appeal to both current and potential FX3 users.

Key Highlights

• Sony FX5 features a 16.6MP full-frame Exmor RS CMOS sensor and BIONZ XR2 processor.
• Supports up to 5K 60fps and 4K 120fps recording with higher frame rates via firmware update.
• Includes open gate recording, internal 16-bit RAW, and Dual Gain Shooting for dynamic range.
• Offers three base ISOs, AI-based autofocus, and a fully articulating 3.5-inch touchscreen.
• Priced at $4900 body-only and $5500 with XLR-H2 handle, available mid-August.

Key Features and Specifications

The Sony FX5 features a new 16.6MP full-frame fully-stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor. It is powered by the BIONZ XR2 processor, which includes built-in AI processing capabilities. The camera can record video at up to 5K 60fps and 4K 120fps. A future firmware update will enable 5K 120fps and 4K 240fps recording.

The FX5's main highlight is open gate recording, which uses the entire width and height of the sensor for 3:2 video. This feature allows filmmakers to utilize all available pixels, making it useful for vertical crops and maximizing image quality. The camera also supports 16-bit linear RAW recording internally, eliminating the need for an external recorder. Users can capture full 3:2 output at 5K 60fps in RAW, with 120fps support coming later.

Sony has equipped the FX5 with its professional X-OCN format, offering LT, C1, and C2 codec options for different compression ratios. The FX5 is the first in the FX series to feature Dual Gain Shooting, which combines low and high gain outputs for better dynamic range and reduced noise. The camera offers three base ISOs: ISO 800, ISO 4000, and ISO 12800, enhancing low light performance. Sony claims the FX5 delivers over 15 stops of dynamic range.

Additional Enhancements and Accessories

The FX5 includes AI-based human pose estimation for improved autofocus accuracy. It also features Auto Tracing White Balance, which uses both visible and infrared sensor data. Users can disable in-camera noise reduction if desired. The camera offers a de-squeeze function for anamorphic lenses, though this disables autofocus.

The FX5 has a larger 3.5-inch touchscreen with 2.76 million dots and full articulation, an upgrade over the FX3. It comes with a built-in cooling fan and uses the larger NP-SA100 battery for extended operation. Connectivity options include dual-USB ports for power and data, as well as a wired LAN port. The camera adopts a new menu system from Sony's CineAlta series.

The FX5 does not have a built-in viewfinder. However, Sony has announced the DVF-EL1 detachable viewfinder as an accessory. There is also an XLR-H2 handle available for audio input. The FX5 is priced at $4,900 for the body only and $5,500 with the XLR-H2 handle. Sales are set to begin in mid-August.