Super-Low-Profile System Targets Broadcasting, Video Production, Live Streaming Applications
Panaasonic has started shipping its new UHD field recorder, the AG-UMR20, which can capture 2160p footage from the companion AG-UCK20 4K camera head when tethered via an optional cable.
The UMR20 has a suggested list price of $2,395, and the UCK20 comes in at $1,995, Panasonic said. Extension cables for connecting the recorder to the camera sell for around $300 (3m) and $600 (20m).
Panasonic AG-UMR20 compact field recorder and AG-UCK20 4K camera head
The lightweight unit captures UHD only from the UCK20, but Panasonic said it can also record HD at up to 59.94p from any camera’s 3D-SDI output. UHD recording takes place to MP4 files with LPCM audio at a variable bit rate of 50 Mbps and frame rates of 23.98p, 25p, and 29.97p. 1080p HD recording maxes out at 25 Mbps recording of footage at up to 59.94p. Recordings are made at 8-bit 4:2:0, but video output is 8-bit 4:2:2.
The UMR20 records to two SD memory card slots that support relay-recording and hot-swapping. It operates on battery or 12v DC power, with an included AC power supply.
The 1.2-pound device has a built-in 3.5-inch color LCD screen with thumbnail display, waveform monitor and vectorscope, with audio features including switchable mic/line-level audio in, a built-in speaker, and headphone mini jack.
It also features IP streaming capabilities for sending video to other devices, similar to (and compatible with) other cameras in Panasonic’s pro PTZ line, the company said, including the ability to monitor, control and configure it via web browser. The device can output HD or UHD via HDMI simultaneously with SDI output and IP streaming, allowing footage to be output to three systems at once.
Size and shape of the AG-UMR20/AG-UCK20GJ combo.
Source: Panasonic [PDF]
The UMR20 camera head has a fixed 20x zoom lens with a field of view Panasonic says compares to a 35mm lens with a focal length of 29.5mm–612mm. The 1/2.3-type MOS sensor has approximately 12.76 megapixels, the company said — more than is strictly required in a 4K frame.
The camera boasts optical image stabilization in both 4K and HD shooting modes, with supplementary five-axis electronic stabilization when shooting HD. Color-correction functions are built in, and a three position optical ND filter is included.
The camera, which weighs well under one pound, also has an infrared shooting mode, auto focus and focus assist, scan-reverse mode (for inverted capture), a built-in mic, and IP-controllable focus, iris and zoom.
