Sony’s FR7 is a new Cinema Line full-frame camera with remote pan-tilt-zoom control, built-in ND filters, S-Log3, fast hybrid AF, and up to 4K 120fps video capture.
The camera further offers external RAW video output and can be controlled via the new control panel or browser-based web interface.
With the growing popularity of live streaming, the demand for suitable and affordable equipment has also increased significantly. In the last few years, we have seen more companies than ever adding direct live streaming features to their cameras, introducing affordable live switchers, and other products for live productions. One category of useful products, when it comes to live and multi-cam productions, are so-called PTZ cameras. PTZ stands for pan-tilt-zoom and it basically gives away what these cameras can do – they can be controlled remotely– including panning, tilting, and zooming.
Now, the company has announced a new high-end PTZ camera with a full-frame sensor and an impressive list of specs – the Sony ILME-FR7.
Sony defines the new FR7 as a “Cinema Line PTZ”. The camera combines Sony’s Cinema Line aesthetics (full-frame with a Sony E lens mount) with the convenience of remote pan-tilt-zoom operation.The sensor outputs 4096 x 2160 (or 3840 x 2160) video in 59.94p (or 50p in PAL), while in HFR mode it can achieve up to 4K 120fps. Internal recording codecs include the following options:
- XAVC-I – 4:2:2 10-bit in DCI 4K, UHD, or FHD
- XAVC-L – 4:2:0 8-bit in UHD or 4:2:2 10-bit in FHD
According to Sony, the dynamic range of the FR7 should reach 15+ stops. Sony included HLG live and HLG natural gamma curves for HDR output within this camera. There are also S-Log3 and S-Cinetone gamma curves.
Just like the Sony FX6, the FR7 also includes a built-in variable ND filter, which can be controlled from a distance. Its intensity varies from ¼ to 1/128 and an auto ND feature is also available. For internal recording, the camera features dual memory card slots (both combined CFexpress A and SD). Interestingly, the FR7 also offers 16-bit RAW video output for external recording via the 12G-SDI port.
To achieve true PTZ remote control (and not only PT), the Sony FR7 has to be paired with a Power Zoom lens. Sony currently offers three full-frame Power Zoom lenses:
- Sony FE PZ 28-135mm f/4 G OSS lens (SELP28135G) – this will be the kit lens for the FR7 as it offers quite a versatile zoom range with constant f/4 aperture at a reasonable weight
- Sony FE PZ 16-35mm f/4 G lens (SELP1635G) – this lightweight Power Zoom lens will cover ultra-wide-angle applications
- Sony FE C 16-35mm T3.1 lens (SELC1635G) – the FR7 can also handle this heavier “cinema” T3.1 ultra-wide-angle Power Zoom.
When it comes to connectivity and interface, the FR7 offers 12G-SDI, HDMI, Single Mode Fiber, NDI Hx, Genlock, Tally, PoE++, and Sony RCP paint control (via a future firmware update). There is also audio-in (5-pin XLR), timecode-in, and GPI.
Sony introduced the optional RM-IP500 control panel for the camera, too. Connected via Ethernet or GPI, the panel features physical controls for all vital functions of the Sony FR7, including the joystick for PT control, knobs for focus and ND filter, zoom rocker, and so on.
Price and availability
The new Sony FR7 will be available for pre-order from B&H starting September 7th at 10am ET. The official retail price of the camera is $9,699. Also, the company offers a pre-bundled kit with the 28-135mm f/4 lens for $12,199. The new PTZ camera will be on display at IBC. The international exhibition and conference on telecommunications and technologies IBC 2022 will be held on September 9-12 in the Netherlands, Amsterdam, Amsterdam RAI.
The online roundtable «Broadcasting/Pro AV 2022. Main premieres of IBC» will take place on September 27. Organizer – TKT 1957 LLC, Georgia.
Advertising and information cooperation on the online roundtable «Broadcasting/Pro AV 2022. Main premieres of IBC»:
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