Panasonic comes with new cameras, codecs and cards

Panasonic announced yesterday a new P2 HD camcorder, with 10-bit 4:2:2 recording: AG-HPX600.

The HPX600 will have proxy recording options, variable frames and possible metadata input.

We will be able to see it starting this fall and it is expected to cost less than $16,000.

One of the most peculiar features of the camera is its recording in a series of codecs called AVC Ultra, which according to the company will be what will make it make the definitive leap in the market.

Already at the press conference prior to NAB, Panasonic made it clear that it was not so much interested in immediately releasing a camera with 4K recording, but rather in improving high-resolution workflows by developing a series of new codecs within the AVC-Intra family.

Within the AVC-Intra family, class 50 has been upgraded to support 1080/60p.

You can read all the details about the camera in the press release.

Panasonic is also coming out with a new SD card, called Micro P2, which will have 64GB and 32GB versions. It will support AVC Ultra recording and they will also bring out an adapter to make it compatible with current hardware. However, not all existing P2 equipment will be compatible, and the products that are compatible will require a firmware upgrade (for which there will be a fee).

Here is Panasonic’s press release.

Finally, a software update has been made for the AG-AF100 camera, which will allow 1080/60p and 50p recording in PS mode. It will also be possible to set marks for 2.39:1.

This upgrade is scheduled for May, for $250.You can read more here.