Panasonic HC-X20

Video camera PANASONIC HCX20

Take your sports video productions, events or mobile documentaries to the world of 4K with the HC-X20 4K PANASONIC mobile camcorder with rich connectivity. With a large 1" 15.03MP 4K sensor, the HC-X20 can record high-quality, professional-grade video in resolutions up to UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) 10-bit 4:2:2. It 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 a frame rate of up to 120fps The X20 also features numerous improvements to its high-speed AF with face detection, a brighter monitor, UHD 4K image stabilization and built-in 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 X20 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 X20 using a tablet or smartphone with a free-to-download PANASONIC app.

While 4K video formats can seem overwhelming, the X20 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 X20 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 X20, 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.

Live streaming

Ideal for news, sports and events, the X20 features a Wi-Fi connection for wireless camera transmission and 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.

USB tethering for webcam control/use

The X20 can operate in USB or wireless LAN connection mode to use a computer for live streaming to applications such as YouTube or Facebook for live streaming.

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.

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)

HDMI output

HDMI outputs up to 3840 x 2160 UHD 4K 4:2:2 10-bit, high image quality output, compatible with various applications.

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