Panasonic Pro AG-HVX200A 3CCD P2/DVCPRO 1080i High Definition Camcorder with 13x Optical Zoom

• True high definition image quality (1080i or 720p) with low-compression DVCPRO HD intraframe .
• Supports HD/SD multi-format and multi-codec capabilities.
• Features the new Leica Dicomar HD lens, developed specifically for HD .
• New progressive CCD and DSP for higher sensitivity and image quality.
• Offering the vast advantages of P2HD solid-state acquisition as well as a mini DV tape mechanism for shooting in SD, the HVX200A is ideal for transitioning from an older standard definition, tape-based infrastructure to a file-based, high definition production..

From the Manufacturer --------------------- From the Manufacturer Panasonic is proud to introduce the AG-HVX200, a handheld DVCPRO HD P2 camera-recorder that's designed to meet emerging needs in HD production. It debuts as Panasonic's first HD video product to use P2, the cutting-edge memory device that has the potential to revolutionize the entire production paradigm. The AG-HVX200 records HD, either 1080i or 720p video acquired by a new optical system and high-performance digital signal processor onto a P2 card using the broadcasting DVCPRO HD codec. This system achieves a level of image quality that conventional handheld HD cameras simply cannot match, while also supporting HD/SD multi-format and multi-codec capabilities. Variable frame rate is just one of the features that makes the AG-HVX200 unique in its class. Using technologies that make the Panasonic VariCam camera-recorder a favorite in movie production, this powerful function allows the overcranking and undercranking techniques used with film cameras to create fast-motion and slow-motion effects. The P2 card offers superior reliability, immediate playback and outstanding cost-performance. It allows direct connection to nonlinear editing systems and streamlines the production work flow, by providing to the editing system data files ready to be edited, rather than a video tape which would require the task of digitizing. On top of all its advanced features and technologies, the AG-HVX200 inherits the refined design and easy operation that distinguishes Panasonic's high-value DVX100 DV camera series. In the AG-HVX200, video professionals of all kinds will find a powerful tool for giving form to their creative visions. Panasonic Pro AG-HVX200 Highlights Newly Designed Leica Dicomar 13x Zoom Lens System for HD Applications The New Leica Dicomar HD Lens Developed specifically for HD , this lens system features a large 82-mm (diameter) filter along with 15 lens elements in 11 groups, including three aspherical lenses. The Leica Dicomar lens incorporates Leica optical technology and know-how throughout. The use of low-dispersion glass reduces color aberration and increases resolution, while a multi-coating process minimizes flare and ghosting. This results in sharp, crisp, beautifully rendered images with delicate nuances and exceptional shading. Wide-Angle, 13x Zoom Lens The Leica Dicomar Lens is a powerful 13x zoom lens designed especially for HD video . Extending all the way to 4.2mm (equivalent to 32.5mm on a 35mm lens), this lens covers the full wideangle range needed in most broadcast and professional shooting. There's no need for a bulky wide-angle conversion lens. With a minimum object distance (MOD) of approximately 1.9 ft (0.6 meter) in telephoto mode, the AG-HVX200 has true handheld maneuverability. And with the same cam-driven zoom ring accled in the DVX100 series, the AG-HVX200 gives you the superior operability and control you need in demanding applications. The lens system features 15 lens elements in 11 groups, including 3 aspherical lenses. OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) Panasonic's advanced OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) dramatically reduces the blurring caused by hand-shake. Optical processing with an automatic correction function helps assure consistently clear, sharp images. New Progressive CCD and DSP Achieve Higher Sensitivity and Image Quality New High-Sensitivity Progressive CCD Each pixel has a large light-receiving area, giving this newly developed 1/3-type progressive Charge Coupled Device (CCD) the kind of high sensitivity not available in previous compact HD cameras. This advanced CCD combines with a newly developed digital signal processor (DSP) in combination with a very sophisticated offset spatial technology acheives a balance of high resolution and high S/N ratio that rivals HD broadcasting cameras. New DSP with 14-bit A/D Conversion and 19-bit Processing The AG-HVX200's newly developed digital signal processor for 1080/60p video signals uses 14-bit A/D conversion and 19-bit inner processing to attain unprecedented accuracy. While the camera does not record 1080/60p, it is from this capture that all other signals are made. The DSP performs a variety of adjustments, including eight types of gamma settings, for each of the R, G and B channels. It also converts the signals to HD or SD format. With a performance equivalent to the processors used in many higher-end HD cameras, this new DSP helps the AG-HVX200 deliver high-quality images in all video formats. High-Resolution Native Progressive 1080/60p Scan Progressive to interlace conversion, cross conversion and down conversion all start with the 1080p/60 scan. The initial 1080p native progressive scan offers the highest level of vertical resolution possible at this level of camera. Keep in mind that the camera does not record this signal but uses it as a basis for all capture. The result is an HD or SD with a level of image quality that electronically processed scans cannot match. HD/SD Multi-Format The AG-HVX200 is the world's first compact camera to offer 1080/24p shooting. It can record onto a P2 card in 1080/60i or 720/60p HD, and it's compatible with the SD (480i) format currently used in TV broadcasting. The multi-codec system lets you record in DVCPRO 50, DVCPRO and DV. DVCPRO HD: The Image and Sound Quality Broadcasters Demand Supports Multi-Codec The Superb Images and Sound of DVCPRO HD Codec Using the DVCPRO HD codec system, the AG-HVX200 records HD video with outstanding image and audio quality onto a P2 card in file format. This codec, thanks to a low compression ratio at a video bit rate of 100 Mbps (1080/59.94i, 720/59.94p) and the easy-to-edit intraframe compression system, is suitable for fast-moving subjects with no motion artifacts other than motion blur. The 4:2:2 sampling rate minimizes jaggies at chroma edges and is advantageous in image and compositing. Sound quality is excellent too, thanks to DVCPRO HD's uncompressed 16-bit, 4-channel digital audio capability. P2: The Next-Generation Media The AG-HVX200 records HD, either 1080i or 720p video acquired by a new optical system and high-performance digital signal processor onto a P2 card using the broadcasting DVCPRO HD codec. P2, which stands for Professional Plug-in, is a compact solid-state memory card designed for professional AV use. Basically, four SD memory cards are packaged together to create a single P2 card. When striped as a RAID 0 array, this gives the P2 four times the transfer speed and four times the capacity of a single SD memory card. A slim, large-capacity 8-GB P2 card (AJ-P2C008HG) can hold 32 minutes of DVCPRO/DV codec yet weighs only about 45 grams. Compliant with PC Card standards (Type II), the P2 card plugs directly into the card slot of a laptop PC. AV data on the card s instantly, with each cut as an MXF file. The data can be used immediately -- no digitizing necessary -- for nonlinear editing, or it can be transferred over a network. The P2 far surpasses all other AV media in transfer speed, too. The P2 cards transfer data at up to 640 Mbps, which can greatly speed up production processes. P2 cards surpass all other AV media in transfer speed. Immediate Startup and Better Data Protection When you press the record button in standby mode, the AG-HVX200 instantly finds a blank area of the P2 card and begins . It can begin immediately even when you're using it to preview video. In normal use, there's no chance of accidentally overwriting a . s will not be erased unless you intentionally delete a file or initialize the card. Hot-Swap and Other Functions that Add Versatility * Hot-swap : Thanks to the AG-HVX200's two card slots, you can hot-swap P2 cards and have continuous non-stop . With multiple cards you can record for hours without interruption. Or, using an AJ-PCS060G, the "P2 Store," external hard drive, you can download recorded files from a P2 card and then initialize it (erasing the files), so it's ready for re-use. * Loop : Using two P2 cards and setting the AG-HVX200 for consecutive overwriting, you can repeatedly re-record during a particular recurring time slot, always maintaining a of the most recent period. Unlike video tape, P2 cards need no rewinding. They minimize wasted time and allow seamless, continuous . This makes them especially useful for unattended monitoring. * Pre-rec: While in standby mode, you can continuously store, and subsequently record, up to 7 seconds in DVCPRO50/DVCPRO or 3 seconds in DVCPRO HD of video and audio. In effect, this lets you record footage of events that occur even before you press the rec start button, giving you a way to "go back" and capture moments you otherwise would have missed. * One- rec: Convenient for producing animation, this mode records for a set time (from 1 frame to 1 second) each time you press the Start button. * Interval rec: one frame at a time at set intervals (from 2 frames to 10 min), this mode is useful for monitoring and special ultra-undercranking effects. Clip Thumbnail/Data Function The AG-HVX200 records each cut as a clip (file) and automatically attaches a thumbnail image and file information to it. To preview a clip on the LCD monitor or to check clip data, simply choose the clip you want from the list of thumbnails. Marker Function If desired, you can add a simple OK/NG marker to each clip either during or after . When a P2 card containing marked clips is inserted in a PC, the PC will display with a M demarkation in the P2 viewer which of the clips is the one with the Marker. Connects Directly to PCs and Macs In PC mode, the AG-HVX200 connects directly via USB 2.0 to a PC running Windows. In IEEE 1394 device mode, it connects directly to a Mac. This lets you use the AG-HVX200 as a P2 card drive, providing easy access to s on the P2 card. Variable Frame Rates from 12 to 60 fps Allows Cinematic Expression -- A First in this Class Variable Frame Rate from 12 to 60 fps Panasonic's VariCam -- named for its ground-breaking variable frame rate capability -- is widely used in the production of movies, TV programs and commercials. Now with the AG-HVX200, the variable frame rate function is available for the first time in a compact camera. In 720p mode, the frame rate can be set from the conventional 24p/30p to any of 11 steps between 12p and 60p. Like the VariCam, the AG-HVX200 allows the undercranking and overcranking used with film cameras to create fast-motion and slow-motion effects. Higher-speed shooting at 26 to 60 fp produces slow-motion effects. Equipped with Native and Over-60p Modes for Previewing Visual Effects New 720p Native Mode In the new Native mode, the AG-HVX200 records images at the frame rate set in the camera. For example, in 24p mode it records 24 frames. Using the AG-HVX200 to play back the at the normal rate, you can preview the speed effect right on the spot, without using a frame rate converter. Native mode also extends the time of a P2 card. 720p over 60p Mode This is a VariCam-compatible mode for 60p-converted video. For example, in 24p mode it records 60 frames by applying a 2:3 pulldown. The time is the same as in 1080i or 720p mode, but the unit can output a DVCPRO HD stream from the IEEE 1394 connector as it records. This lets you produce a backup copy using a connected external hard disk recorder, such as the Panasonic AJ-HD1200A DVCPRO HD recorder or the FOCUS FireStore FS-100 ( http://www..com/FS-100-160-FireStore-FS100-160-CAMCORDERS-Accessories/dp/B0010HELUM/ ) . 1080/480 24p Advance Mode The 1080 and 480 progressive systems convert s to 60i in 24p, 30p, or 24pA (Advance) mode. The 24p Advance mode uses 2:3:3:2 pulldown and performs 60i/24p conversion with minimum image degradation when data is captured via an IEEE 1394 interface to a compatible nonlinear editing system. This lets you maintain superior image quality throughout the production process. Cine-Like Gamma Provides Warmer, Film-Like Color Tones Eight-mode Gamma for richer gradation Eight-Mode Gamma for Richer Gradation Drawing on technologies developed for the VariCam, Panasonic has equipped the AG-HVX200 with advanced gamma functions that address eight different shooting scenarios and expands your creative abilities. Included are the Cine-Like Gamma, which gives s the characteristic warm tone of film s, and a News Gamma that's designed especially for news gathering. Create Slow-/Fast-Motion Effects Using Mini DV Tape In addition to its two P2 card slots, the AG-HVX200 is equipped with a mini DV tape drive. This allows in 60i, 30p, 24p or 24pA (Advance) modes, just like AG-DVX100 series models. It also lets you down-convert an HD source (1080i/720p) recorded on a P2 card and copy it to a mini DV tape. During copying, frame-rate conversion is applied to overcranked and undercranked HD image sources in 720p native mode. This lets you create special speed effects during DV production -- until now, a feat possible only with a complete VariCam system. Manual Zoom, Focus, Iris and Gain Functions for the Professional Cam-Driven Manual Zoom The cam-driven (mechanical) manual zoom ring provides the same fast, precise zooming as cameras with interchangeable lenses. You'll also enjoy the operating feel. When you turn the zoom ring, you experience the same kind of steady resistance as you feel with 35mm lenses. The AG-HVX200's servo-driven zoom also allows slow zooming. Center Zoom function s the center part of the image, making it easier to get the more precise focus needed in HD production. Manual Focus with Center Zoom Enjoy quick, sharp focusing manually or automatically. In manual mode, the focus ring gives you the same kind of operating feel and responsive control as cameras with interchangeable lenses. An HD-compatible focus assist (Center Zoom) function s the center part of the image, making it easier to get the more precise focus needed in HD production. In auto mode, you get quick focusing when shooting at a high or low angle. When set to infinity, the focal distance is immediately prepared for the next manual focus. When in manual mode, pressing the Push Auto button temporarily activates auto focus. Manual Aperture The large aperture dial (direction setting possible) is designed for easy manual operation. You also can add backlight correction or spotlight correction to the auto aperture function. Gain, ND Filter Increases gain up to 18 dB. The selector has three positions: L is fixed at 0 dB; M and H can be set to 0, +3, +6, +9, or +12 dB. +18dB can also be quickly accessed by the use of the USER 1, 2 or 3 switch. Two ND filters (1/8 ND, 1/64 ND) are built-in and easily accessible. Slow, Synchro and High Speed Shutter Used with the variable frame rate functions, this allows you to create a blurring effect or crystal clear stop motion sports action. The AG-HVX200 also features a synchro scan function that's suitable for capturing screen s from a computer monitor. Scene File, User Buttons and Auto Functions for Quicker, Easier Shooting Scene File Dial Set this dial for a set of shooting conditions, and later you can instantly retrieve the settings when needed. Six preset files are provided, and you can change any of the six file names and their settings as desired. You can also transfer the setting files to an SD memory card. Three User Buttons The AG-HVX200 has three user buttons, each of which can be assigned any one of 12 functions (rec check, spotlight, backlight, black fade, white fade, ATW, ATW lock, gain 18dB, focus ring, memo/index, slot sel, mark). The assigned functions can then be accessed at the touch of a button. Auto/Manual Mode Selector Just select the auto position to turn on Auto Aperture, Auto Gain, Auto Tracking White Balance, and Auto Focus -- and you are immediately ready to shoot. You can also customize the auto mode by removing functions and setting the gain to any value desired. White Balance with the Auto Tracking White Function One press of the AWB button is all it takes to adjust the white balance and black balance. There are three white balance values to select from: one that's preset, and two (A, B) that you can set and save in memory. The auto tracking white balance (ATW) function can also be assigned to any of the three positions. The ATW mode supports fast, active shooting by adjusting the white balance in real-time as lighting conditions change. XLR External Microphone Inputs and Manual Adjustment Capability Meets Professional Audio Needs XLR Audio Inputs In addition to the built-in stereo microphones, the AG-HVX200 is equipped with two XLR audio input terminals with a 48-V phantom power supply for professional use. Both input 1 and input 2 can be switched between line and mic, and Audio is locked to the Video, unlike consumer DV camcorders. AG-HVX200 has the same kind of level-adjustment dials as DVCPRO camera-recorders. Audio Dials and Flexible Input Selection The AG-HVX200 has the same kind of level-adjustment dials as DVCPRO camera-recorders. This practical design incorporates professional operating features that have been refined over years of use on location. A switch lets you select built-in mic, input 1, or input 2 for the audio input of both channel-1 and channel-2. Auto level control can be turned on or off. Ergonomic Design Throughout -- Including the Viewfinder, Monitor and Handgrip Large Electronic Viewfinder The large viewfinder makes it easy to view content, even with your eye at a slight distance, and it tilts upward 90 degrees for easy low-angle s. The AG-HVX200 also has a detail (PEAKING) function. 3.5-inch Color LCD Monitor The large, bright LCD monitor opens all the way to 120 degrees and swivels freely within a range of 270 degrees. This makes it easy to shoot from a variety of angles and view the image comfortably. In 16:9 wide-screen mode, the AG-HVX200 can display images in letterbox format. Trigger and Zoom Control on Upper Handle Grip In addition to the lens grip, the upper part of the handle grip contains both the Rec Start/Stop button and a lens zoom control. This design assures easy shooting even at low angles or when using a tripod. The zoom speed can be set to any of three speed levels or off. Magnesium Alloy Chassis The AG-HVX200 has the same magnesium alloy diecast chassis as the Panasonic DVCPRO broadcast models. This ultra-tough, ruggedly built camera-recorder protects the precision parts within, giving the AG-HVX200 outstanding reliability and durability. Built for professionals, the AG-HVX200 stands up to the bumps and jolts that may occur in the field. Support Functions for Greater Convenience* Mode check: Displays a list of the camera settings on the viewfinder and monitor. * Zebra: Select any two levels from among 50-percent to 105-percent, in 5-percent steps. * Tally lamps: Provided on the unit's front and rear, and menu switchable. * Center Marker: Provides an accurate numeric display of the brightness at screen center. * Remote: Controls zoom, rec, focus and iris. Advanced Image Adjustments Built-In* Matrix setting including "Cine-like" mode. * Adjustable V detail level, detail coring and skin detail. * Adjustable chroma phase, color temp and master pedestal. * Knee point settings: Auto, low, mid and high. System Interfaces Compatible with Mac and Windows Nonlinear Editing With its IEEE 1394 (4-pin) and USB 2.0 interfaces, the AG-HVX200 connects directly to Mac and PC. The IEEE 1394 port supports SBP2 (Serial Bus Protocol 2) and allows direct connection to a Mac, making it easy to transfer P2 files for use with Final Cut Pro nonlinear editing software. When you've recorded on mini DV tape, the AG-HVX200 can stream to a conventional DV-compatible nonlinear editing system. The USB 2.0 interface lets you transfer P2 files to a Windows PC for use with a nonlinear editing system (such as an Avid or Canopus product). These two interfaces provide you the best performance for Mac and Windows nonlinear editing systems. External with IEEE 1394 Streaming The IEEE 1394 interface can be used to control an external device synched with the camera's Start/Stop operation, making it easy to create backup s. Compatible devices include the AJ-HD1200A (for DVCPRO HD ), the AJ-SD93 (DVCPRO 50/DVCPRO), and the AG-DV2500 (DV). Also, when used with the FOCUS FireStore FS-100, the AG-HVX200 can provide extendedtime in all codec formats, including DVCPRO HD (except in native mode). Transferring Files to an External HDD The AG-HVX200 offers a host function. Insert a P2 card in the card slot, and data can be transferred to an external hard disk drive (AC power supply needed) via the IEEE 1394 port. Analog Component Signal Output The AG-HVX200 is equipped with analog component signal (Y, Pb, Pr) terminals for outputting 1080i, 720p and 480i (each 59.94 Hz) camera video signals. This lets you preview recorded clips on an ordinary HD/SD TV monitor. 16:9 Squeeze and Letterbox Modes The AG-HVX200 can record in SD with a 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratio. When 16:9 is selected, the AG-HVX200 can record in native 16:9 or can be switched to a letterboxed 4:3 image. Time-code-matched editing with multiple camera-recorders enabled. TC Set and User File Copy with Multi-Cameras Connecting two AG-HVX200 units together with an IEEE 1394 cable allows set initial time-code, which then enables time-code-matched editing with multiple camera-recorders. The built-in SMPTE time-code generator/reader lets you select the Drop Frame/Non-Drop Frame and Free Run/Rec Run modes, preset and regenerate*. User bits are also provided. User files (with sets of camera settings) can be transferred to an SD Memory Card. This makes it easy to synchronize images recorded simultaneously using multiple cameras. Compatibility with Nonlinear Editing Systems In developing DVCPRO and P2 products, Panasonic has been working in collaboration with a number of strategic P2 partners. The results are products that offer maximum compatibility with existing hardware and software, including IT-based system platforms and nonlinear editors and network servers. Apple, Avid and Canopus have announced support of the DVCPRO HD P2 file recorded by the AG-HVX200. Using nonlinear editing systems from these three leading companies, you can produce HD videos from DVCPRO HD native files. Optional Features and Products to go with the AG-HVX200 P2 Cards Panasonic AJ-P2CO16RG 16GB P2 High Performance Memory Card for the AG-HVX200 Camcorder ( http://www..com/Panasonic-AJ-P2CO16RG-Performance-AG-HVX200-Camcorder/dp/B00144JTMG/ ) and Panasonic AJ-P2C032RG 32GB The P2 High Performance Memory Card for the AG-HVX200 Camcorder ( http://www..com/Panasonic-AJ-P2C032RG-Performance-AG-HVX200-Camcorder/dp/B00144GDIO/ ) P2, which stands for Professional Plug-in, is a compact solid-state memory card designed for professional AV use. Basically, four SD Memory Cards are packaged together to create a single P2 card. When striped as a RAID 0 array, this gives the P2 four times the transfer speed and four times the capacity of a single SD Memory Card. A slim, large-capacity 8-GB P2 card (AJ-P2C008HG) can hold 32 minutes of DVCPRO/DV codec yet weighs only about 45 grams. Compliant with PC Card standards (Type II), the P2 card plugs directly into the card slot of a laptop PC. AV data on the card s instantly, with each cut as an MXF file. The data can be used immediately -- no digitizing necessary -- for nonlinear editing, or it can be transferred over a network. The P2 far surpasses all other AV media in transfer speed, too. The P2 cards transfer data at up to 640 Mbps, which can greatly speed up production processes. P2 high performance memory cards for the AG-HVX200 Camcorder. P2 cards withstand shock up to 1,500 G and vibration up to 15 G, operate in temperatures from -4 to 140°F (-20 to 60°C), and can be stored in temperatures from -40 to 176°F (-40 to 80°C). In durability too, the P2 card goes well beyond ordinary PC cards. Its connector portion, for example, is specially designed for professional use and has passed insertion/removal tests of more than 30,000 cycles. P2 cards also have a write protect switch that helps prevent accidental data deletion. Solid state memory has the unique advantage of being rewritable, over and over again, in part because it is a non-contact media and requires no rotation. You can use the same P2 card again and again for years -- slashing media expenses while also minimizing impact on the environment. Portable Hard Disk Drive AJ-PCS060G portable hard disk drive ( http://www..com/AJ-PCS060G-CAMCORDERS-ACC-Other-Camcorder-Accessories/dp/B00138TV0S/ ) The battery-powered AJ-PCS060G portable hard disk drive -- or P2 Store -- gives the AG-HVX200 the added versatility needed in the field. Equipped with a card slot, the P2 Store makes it easy to download files and initialize a card so it can be reused right away. In the editing booth, the P2 Store can connect to a PC via its USB 2.0 port and serve as an external hard disk drive. Professional full-size DV and mini-DV video tape recorder Panasonic AG-DV2500 MiniDV/Full-Size DV Proline Video Tape Recorder ( http://www..com/Panasonic-AG-DV2500-Full-Size-Proline-Recorder/dp/B0002K6RIM/ ) The AG-DV2500 records and plays both standard DV and Mini-DV cassettes in SP mode, and plays both large and small DVCAM tape cassettes. It can record for up to 276 minutes on a standard DV cassette (AY-DV276MQ).The AG-DV2500 is equipped with an IEEE1394-compliant 4-pin DV terminal. This makes a host of operations possible, including synchronized with a DV camera-recorder, digital dubbing with a DV recorder, uploading to the PC in a nonlinear editing system, and downloading after editing.Two audio modes are provided: 2-channel (16-bit, 48-kHz sampling) and 4-channel (12-bit, 32-kHz sampling). In 4-channel mode, open channels can be used later to dub in narration or other audio.The AG-DV2500 automatically detects and plays DV footage recorded in NTSC or PAL, making it easy to upload footage to a nonlinear editing system. The AG-DV2500 can also record in either NTSC or PAL mode; simply set the switch on the rear panel to the mode desired. onto standard DV and Mini-DV cassettes is possible in both formats. FOCUS FireStore FS-100 Panasonic FS-100-160 FireStore for Panasonic AG-HVX200 ( http://www..com/FS-100-160-FireStore-FS100-160-CAMCORDERS-Accessories/dp/B0010HELUM// ) The AG-HVX200 includes a VariCam-compatible mode for 60p-converted video. For example, in 24p mode it records 60 frames by applying a 2:3 pulldown. The time is the same as in 1080i or 720p mode, but the unit can output a DVCPRO HD stream from the IEEE 1394 connector as it records. This lets you produce a backup copy using a connected external hard disk recorder, such as the 160 GB FOCUS FireStore FS-100.