New Panasonic AG-AF100A

Panasonic has announced the new AG-AF100A, a camcorder that includes considerable improvements over its predecessor, the AG-AF100.

This revamped version is a Micro-4/3 camera that adds 10-bit 4:2:2 output, improving on the 8-bit output of the previous version. Panasonic wanted to offer this possibility for those users who need a wider range when correcting color, so now you can get this output via HD-SDI when recording with external devices, such as a P2 HD recorder.

The HD-SDI signal is also capable of carrying a synchronization signal for recording start and stop. Other connections include USB 2.0 and HDMI.

The new AG-AF100A is equipped with the focus assist function, which enlarges the center of the image for easier focusing; and a safety mark indicator for 2.39:1 has been added.

In addition to the high quality PH recording mode (averaging 21Mbps and a maximum of 24Mbps), the AF100 also features the new PS mode (averaging 25Mbps and a maximum of 28Mbps). This is fully compatible with AVCHD v2.0 for recording, playback and output (though only via HDMI) of 1080 images at 59.94p and 50p.

Both PH and PS modes support the recording of two channels of uncompressed, 16 bit LPCM audio. Two-channel XLR audio input is also possible for full uncompressed recording.

The AF-100A records SMPTE time code and includes an internal down-converter to facilitate the output of SD signals (480/576).

This new camcorder is now available for a price of $4,595. If you want more information, here you can see all its detailed features.