Panasonic HC-X2

HCX2 PANASONIC Camcorder

Take your multi-camera video productions, events or mobile sports to the world of 4K with the HC-X2 4K PANASONIC camcorder. With a large 1" 15.03 MP 4K sensor, the HC-X2 can record high-quality, professional-grade video in resolutions up to UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) 10-bit 4:2:2. You can also record 1080p in VFR (variable frame rate) in 10 increments from 2 to 60fps, as well as record HD video in a super slow motion mode at up to 120fps frame rate. The X2 features numerous improvements to its high-speed AF with face detection, 13-stop HLG dynamic range, a brighter monitor, 4K UHD image stabilization, timecode input and output, HDMI and 3G-SDI output, and integrated Ethernet and Wi-Fi.

Whether you're producing event or ENG-style videos or live streaming, the power of the lens' 20x optical zoom starts with a wide field of view equivalent to 24mm for capturing in tight spaces or capturing stunning set shots, and extends to 32x i.Zoom to get tight into distant subjects. The X2 also features built-in Wi-Fi that allows you to stream live via RTMP/RTSP, and you can also connect to a computer using Wi-Fi or USB so you can stream using popular content providers like YouTube or Facebook Live. You can also remotely and wirelessly control the X2 using a tablet or smartphone with a free downloadable PANASONIC app.

While 4K video formats can seem overwhelming, the X2 manages to record them to convenient SD cards (U3-rated or faster cards are required for video bitrates above 100Mb/s) that are small and robust. Two card slots are provided for added flexibility. You can record to both cards simultaneously, either for backup or recording high and low bitrate files, or enable stream recording to capture a single file spanning multiple cards for longer recording times.

Ergonomically, the X2 features a compact handheld camcorder body with many customizable control buttons for quick access to essential functions. When held in the hand, the crisp OLED EVF is within easy reach, and a high-brightness 3.5" touchscreen is offered for monitoring and controlling the menu; and both can be used simultaneously. Waveforms and oscilloscopes can be displayed to aid in exposure control. On the superior side of the grip is a large zoom control for precise zoom control. The lens functions can also be controlled manually using the three lens rings, one for focus, one for zoom, and one for the iris. A 5900mAh battery is included to power the X2, along with a charger. and a power supply for fixed-position operation.

High-definition 4K images with 1" MOS sensor

This effective 1" (15.03 MP) MOS sensor combines ideal depth of field with balanced image quality and sensitivity. It supports HLG/V-log (13 stops) and HDR shooting and provides crop-free images in all modes.

Live streaming

Ideal for medium-scale multi-camera live shots/events, the X2 features an Ethernet and Wi-Fi connection for LAN transmission and wireless camera control. It supports RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol), the protocol used when streaming with Adobe Flash, and supports RTSP/RTP/RTMP/RTMPS using H.264/MPEG-4 AVC/AAC-LC compression. It supports streaming distribution of RTMP-compatible content, such as live video distribution services, and it is also possible to record (with modes below FHD) to SD cards in the camera during streaming.

High Dynamic Range (HLG) recording

HDR is an image display technology that provides a wider brightness range (dynamic range) than conventional SDR. HDR generates more natural and realistic images without compromising gradation in bright image areas or dark image areas.

13 stops V-log/V-Gamut

The X2 performs a wide dynamic range of up to 13 stops and supports V-Log/V-Gamut, which is also equipped in PANASONIC's VARICAM and LUMIX cinema cameras.

USB tethering for webcam control/use

The X2 can operate in USB tethering mode or wired/wireless LAN to use a computer for live streaming to applications such as YouTube or Facebook for live streaming.

Wired and wireless remote control

A 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi module is built-in, so there is no need to purchase a separate wireless LAN module. Wi-Fi connection is possible using only the main unit. A tablet/smartphone with HC ROP (available for free on the Apple App Store or Google Play) can be used for wireless remote control. The app can be used to control up to eight cameras. There's also a built-in Ethernet connection so you can add the camera to a wired LAN.

4-unit lens system

The 4-unit lens system simultaneously and independently controls 4 groups of lenses (group 2, iris, group 3, group 4). The lens size and handling range for each of the 4 groups can be efficiently suppressed to optimize image quality and zoom power, while maintaining a compact body.

5-axis hybrid O.I.S

In both UHD/FHD modes, in addition to optical image stabilization (O.I.S.), Electronic Image Stabilization works to detect and correct handshake in the 5-axis direction, including rotational blur. This provides powerful correction in unstable situations, such as low-angle and high-angle shooting.

There are three modes to choose from:

• NORMAL (standard)
• STABLE (effective for still frame shooting)
• PAN/TILT (effective pan and tilt)

Simultaneous SDI/HDMI output

HDMI outputs up to 3840 x 2160 UHD 4K 4:2:2 10-bit and 3G-SDI 1920 x 1080 FHD 4:2:2 10-bit outputs, high image quality output, compatible with various applications and recorders.

Timecode input/output

The X2 supports timecode input/output, so it can be easily adapted to multi-camera productions.

High-precision 4K AF

By moving the Micro Drive focus unit thoroughly and quickly, high-precision AF performance is also achieved when shooting in 4K or shooting with shallow depth of field.

Focus assist functions

Provided with Face Detection to accurately capture subjects on site without blur and underexposure issues. In addition, by adding color recognition, subject tracking is improved, without interruption, when the face moves to either side.

• Area mode: Autofocus is easily possible with just one tap on the LCD panel. You can also change this to Auto Iris and Brightness Display on the screen
• Y Get: measures brightness in the center and displays numerical data
• Focus Assist: when the Focus Assist button is pressed during manual focus
• Expand: Visibility can be improved by expanding the display of any desired part of the screen
• Peaking: outlines of focused subjects are colored to emphasize visualization
• Expand and Peaking: Expand and Peaking can be used in combination
• One Press AF: This function temporarily activates autofocus when shooting in manual mode