The Sony Cinema Line FX5 Camera with XLR Handle Unit is the latest full-frame cinema camera in the Sony Cinema Line, bringing the latest advancements from Sony onto a compact form factor that is ideal for modern hybrid productions. Featuring a newly developed 16.6MP 5K fully stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor backed by a BIONZ XR2 with an integrated AI processing unit for enhanced AI-based subject recognition, autofocus, and AI-based auto white balance.
In terms of recording, you will find internal recording up to 5K Open Gate (3:2) at 60 fps in X-OCN (LT/C1/C2) and 5K120 (16:9). Triple Base ISO adds a new sensitivity setting that includes a new ISO 4000 option for cleaner low-light performance without increasing image noise, along with a Dual Gain option for 16+ stops of dynamic range
The Sony Cinema Line FX5 Camera adds an enhanced in-body image stabilisation system that offers improved roll correction, while dynamic active mode provides additional electronic stabilisation during handheld movement. At the back of the FX 5, you will find a large 3.5" widescreen (16:9) 4-axis multi-angle touchscreen LCD.
The Sony XLR-H2 XLR Handle Unit enables you to enjoy 32-bit float audio recording. Another first in the Sony FX Cinema Line Series. It takes the worry out of audio recording by eliminating clipping and offering an exceptional dynamic range. This handle also improves the ergonomics and connectivity of the camera by adding two XLR inputs, a mic mount, along with some physical controls to dial in audio settings.
A New Place in the Cinema Line
The Sony Cinema Line FX5 Camera is neatly situated between the FX3 and FX6. The FX 5 borrows features from the 3 and 6 as each is well suited for different types of video production.
The biggest change to take note of is the introduction of the next-gen sensor with a 16.6MP 5K fully stacked CMOS design.
The Sony FX5 mainly borrows the compact form factor of the FX3. From the FX6, the menu, features, and operation are closer.
AI Processing and Autofocus
Being powered by the newly developed BIONZ XR2 processor along with an integrated AI processing unit introduces Sony's latest intelligent autofocus technologies to the Cinema Line.
Subject recognition identifies people, birds, and animals while maintaining accurate focus throughout continuously changing scenes. Even in low-light conditions, the autofocus system remains responsive, even in challenging environments.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Sony Cinema Line FX5 Camera features a newly developed 16.6MP full-frame stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor for notably fast readout speeds, dynamic range and low-light performance. The fully stacked architecture of the sensor allows for fast data processing while reducing the appearance of rolling shutter. This makes it ideal for fast-moving subjects and handheld use. The above, combined with Sony's advanced colour science, you will find natural tonal transitions, refined highlight retention, and cinematic colour reproduction.
Open Gate and X-OCN Workflow
Extended flexibility is added with Open Gate recording in a 3:2 aspect ratio. Shooting with the Sony FX 5, you can use the full sensor area while providing additional flexibility for reframing, multiple aspect ratio deliveries, and visual effects work. Internal X-OCN recording further enhances professional workflows by preserving tonal information and colour precision within a raw-based format.
These recording options in combination provide the latitude needed for demanding commercial, cinematic and post-production workflows.
Multiple flavours of X-OCN are available across Sony's CineAlta lineup, including the maximum quality X-OCN XT (Extreme) and balanced X-OCN ST (Standard). The FX5, owing to its more compact and more accessible design, is equipped with a handful of more compressed variants of X-OCN, including a pair of newly developed options:
- X-OCN LT (Light): Indie features, TV, commercials, documentaries, and live events-preserves editing flexibility and 16-bit linear encoding. (5K24 OG: 712 Mb/s)
- X-OCN C1: Content creation, online distribution, live events, documentaries-additional compression for longer runtimes and less discerning productions. (5K24 OG: 536 Mb/s)
- X-OCN C2: Prioritises media storage and long runtimes. (5K24 OG: 429 Mb/s)
Ergonomics and Control
A new button layout offers six assignable custom buttons, and a new multifunction control dial places frequently used buttons in close proximity.
You will find an updated menu navigation along with thoughtfully positioned controls for a familiar shooting experience for existing Cinema Line users, yet easy to transition to from the Sony Alpha lines.
Stabilisation and Handheld Shooting
The Sony Cinema Line FX5 Camera features a compact form factor, ideal for productions demanding flexibility without compromising image stability. Enhanced in-body image stabilisation systems offer improved roll correction, and dynamic active mode provides additional electronic stabilisation during handheld movement.
Comprehensive Monitoring Solutions
You will find a redesigned 3.5" 4-axis multi-angle touchscreen that allows for more flexibility, composing high, low, or unconventional shooting positions. The screen features a wide 16:9 display offering an optimised viewing experience for modern cinema formats. Sony's updated cinema-focused BIG 6 user interface streamlines access to critical camera settings.
Professional monitoring tools, including waveform, vector scope, false colour, histogram, zebra, peaking, and focus map, are built directly into the camera. This gives filmmakers precise exposure and focus control without requiring external monitoring solutions.
Dynamic Range and Three Base ISO
The Sony Cinema Line FX5 Camera is designed to excel over a wide range of lighting conditions by incorporating dual-gain architecture. This provides you with more than 16 stops of dynamic range, this is to preserve highlight detail while maintaining clean shadow information.
The introduction of Three Base ISO adds an additional sensitivity setting, including the new ISO 4000 option, delivering cleaner low-light performance without increasing image noise. This produces greater flexibility working in uncontrolled environments, still maintaining image quality throughout the exposure range.
XLR Handle Unit
The Sony XLR-H2 XLR Handle Unit enables you to enjoy 32-bit float audio recording. Another first in the Sony FX Cinema Line Series.
It takes the worry out of audio recording by eliminating clipping and offering an exceptional dynamic range. This handle also improves the ergonomics and connectivity of the camera by adding two XLR inputs, a mic mount, along with some physical controls to dial in audio settings.
DVF-EL1 EVF: High-Quality Monitoring in All Conditions (NOT INCLUDED)
The Sony DVF-EL1 Electronic Viewfinder is a removable and tiltable (up to 90°) electronic viewfinder that is separately available. It attaches to a proprietary connection on the top of the FX 5 body.
The display itself is an OLED with high refresh rate options, a wide colour gamut, and high brightness.
Timecode Adapter Cable: Unlock Proper TC Support (NOT INCLUDED)
Due to the high-end pro cinema specs found in the Sony Cinema Line FX5 Camera, you can use the Sony VMC-BNCU1 Timecode Adapter Cable (USB-C to BNC) for maximum compatibility and proper sync and coordination between different departments.
Note: Due to the location of the connector for the EVF and XLR Handle Unit, the Multi Function Shoe cannot be used along with the EVF and XLR Unit.
Essential Information—What You Need to Know at a Glance
Sitting between the FX3 and FX6—and borrowing technology from the premier CineAlta system—the FX5 has a lot of new and repurposed features that make it special.
- Newly developed 16.6MP (5K) full-frame fully stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor
- BIONZ XR2 with integrated AI processing unit for improved AI-based subject recognition autofocus and AI-based auto white balance
- Internal recording up to 5K Open Gate (3:2) at 60 fps in X-OCN (LT/C1/C2)
- Three Base ISO (800/4000/12800) and Dual Gain option for 16+ stops of dynamic range
- Revamped user interface and BIG 6 menu with optimised control scheme and multifunction dial
- Large 3.5" widescreen (16:9) 4-axis multi-angle touchscreen LCD and optional dedicated electronic viewfinder
- Additional monitoring tools: false colour, waveform, vectorscope, focus map, and built-in anamorphic de-squeeze options
- Enhanced connectivity with two USB-C ports, Ethernet, full-size HDMI, and headphone and mic jacks
- Dual CFexpress Type A/SD memory card slots
- High-capacity NP-SA100 battery pack with over two hours of recording time
- Sony Cinema Line FX5 Camera with XLR Handle Unit
- Sony XLR-H2 XLR Handle Unit
- Sony NP-SA100 Battery (2670 mAh)
- Sony BC-SAD1 Battery Charger
- Sony Multi Interface Shoe Cap
- Sony ALC-B1EM Body Cap (Sony E)
- Sony Viewfinder Terminal Protection Cap
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| Lens Communication | |
| Image Sensor | |
| Effective Sensor Resolution | |
| Image Stabilization | |
| Built-In ND Filter | |
| Built-In CC Filter | |
| Internal Filter Holder | |
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| Shutter Angle | |
| ISO/Gain Sensitivity | |
| Advertised Dynamic Range | |
| White Balance | |
| Exposure Modes |
| Focus Mode |
| Internal Recording | |
| Video Output | |
| Fast-/Slow-Motion Support | |
| Gamma Curve | |
| Built-In Microphone | |
| Audio Recording | |
| IP Streaming |
| Media/Memory Card Slot | |
| Internal Storage | |
| Video I/O | |
| Audio I/O | |
| Power I/O | |
| Other I/O | |
| Wireless | |
| Mobile App Compatible | |
| Global Positioning (GPS, GLONASS, etc.) |
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| Battery |
| Shoe Mount | |
| Tripod Mount | |
| Accessory Mounting Thread | |
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