Sony Unveils HXR-NX5R Camera Plus New Remote, Switcher

New Products Are Meant to Reduce Crew Requirements for Low-Budget Multi-Camera Shoots

Over the next several months, Sony is rolling out new products — including a lightweight remote control and a multi-camera switcher — aimed at freelancers and small camera crews who want to streamline their multi-camera workflow.

First up is the HXR-NX5R, a compact HD camcorder with three 1/2.8-type full-HD Exmor CMOS sensors and a 20x zoom G Lens. Billed as the successor to the previous HXR-NX5U, launched back in 2010, the NX5R records XAVC-S (50Mbps), AVCHD and DV formats. 1080p60 output is supported via a 3G-SDI output (composite and HDMI out are also included), and many functions are controllable via a built-in joystick, reducing the number of times users must navigate menus to dial in desired settings.\

The NX5R comes with an adustable-brightness LED video light to reduce the need for lighting gear. Wi-Fi and FTP connectivity is built-in, along with an MI Shoe interface — meaning Sony's UWP-D wireless mics can be used without being cabled to the camera. A high-contrast OLED viewfinder is included.

The HXR-NX5R is expected to ship in September at an MSRP of $3,699.

Following one month later in October is the RM-30BP, a lightweight remote controller designed for use handheld or attached to a tripod arm. It can control lens functions including auto/manual focus, iris and zoom; camera functions including recording and display, shutter speed, and white balance.

For now, the RM-30BP works with the new NX5R and the Sony PXW-FS7 (running v4.0 firmware), but more cameras are expected to be added to the compatibility list.

The RM-30BP remote can control up to three cameras, meaning things get really interesting in January 2017, when the new MCX-500 switcher arrives. Aimed at live event coverage and corporate productions, the MCX-500 can be hooked up with the RM-30BP to control three cameras directly from the switcher, including support for tally signals that are displayed on the NX5R's LCD panel and viewfinder.

Sony has not announced pricing for the RM-30BP or the MCX-500, which may mean it's looking to hear feedback from potential users before it sets anything in stone.