Sony will release the new flagship model BRC-AM7 PTZ Camera. This is a lens-integrated 4K swivel camera, and will be released in early 2025. The advanced recognition function using AI technology enables accurate and natural automatic tracking shooting, and realizes high-quality video production such as shooting in 4K60P. The suggested retail price is to be announced. Reportedly, the market estimated price will be around 1,540,000 yen including tax, which is roughly $10,000.
High image quality performance
By combining the 1.0-inch 4K-compatible stacked CMOS image sensor Exmor RS with the latest image processing engine BIONZ XR, it is possible to shoot 4K60P high-resolution, low-noise images. 5K oversampling not only allows users to shoot high-resolution 4K images, but also supports 4K HDR shooting. It can clearly depict a wide range of scenes, from bright to dark.
The newly developed integrated lens is equipped with a 20x optical zoom, and a full-pixel super-resolution zoom that enables high-magnification zoom while maintaining resolution, enabling telephoto shooting of up to 30x in 4K.
It also has a unique electronic variable ND filter built in, which allows the filter transmittance to be seamlessly adjusted from 1/4 to 1/128. In addition to being able to adjust the exposure without changing the depth of field, the auto setting also allows the camera to automatically adjust the light output to the level set by the camera at all times. This makes it suitable for shooting in a variety of environments, such as in environments where the brightness changes due to external light, or for shooting on stage with lighting effects.
Improved “PTZ auto-framing function”
The Sony BRC-AM7 uses AI-based “PTZ autoframing function.” This is a shooting function that automatically tracks the subject based on detailed information such as the person’s skeleton, head, face, and clothing through advanced recognition. The “PTZ autoframing function” installed in this unit has a new autofocus linking function added. The Exmor RS image sensor and the high image processing capabilities of the BIONZ XR enable automatic tracking shooting with the “PTZ autoframing function” while maintaining focus over a wide range and with high precision.
In addition, the Sony BRC-AM7 is equipped with a newly developed pan/tilt rotation mechanism that realizes movements from an ultra-low speed of 0.004 degrees per second to a high speed of 180 degrees per second with a quiet operation of less than NC25, enabling quieter and smoother tracking. In addition to being able to capture scenes such as performers moving continuously on stage or shooting sporting events with detailed framing that matches their movements, it can also be used in situations where quietness is important, such as shooting classical concerts, expanding the range of shooting scenes. It also has a preset function that allows users to register and recall camera compositions in advance. It also contributes to more efficient shooting, such as being able to reproduce camera work with the same composition even when the photographer changes.
Sony BRC-AM7 system configurability
This unit is equipped with a variety of functions that work with Sony’s video production system. In addition to being equipped with looks such as “ITU709”, “709tone”, “S-Cinetone”, and “S-Log3” that make it easy to match colors between cameras, it is also compatible with the GENLOCK terminal, master setup units “MSU-3000” and “MSU-3500”, and remote control panel “RCP-3501,” making it possible to operate with multiple cameras. It can also be linked with the software switcher “M2L-X” and cloud switcher “M2 Live”.
The compact and lightweight body also supports shooting in places where it is difficult to set up a camera. In addition to supporting large-capacity internal recording, it can also be installed on the ceiling, a crane, or a stage baton, and the 3/8-16 UNC and 1/4-20 UNC screw holes on the bottom allow for shooting from a tripod, making it possible to shoot in places where it is difficult for people to reach and from a variety of angles.
In addition to the versatile XLR 4-pin power connector, it also supports PoE++ (Power over Ethernet Plus Plus). By connecting to network equipment that supports this standard, it can also be powered from a LAN cable, so it can be powered without the need for construction work even in places without a power source.
In addition to 12G-SDI and HDMI video outputs, it also supports 3G-SDI for monitor output. The audio input is equipped with two XLR 3-pin terminal channels and a Φ3.5mm stereo input. With a wide range of video output interfaces and audio inputs, it is possible to add it to an existing filming system or build a system that suits the filming site.
IP and free-d support enable new video production
The Sony BRC-AM7 supports SRT, RTMP, RTSP, and NDI optical fiber, enabling remote production via IP networks. It also supports VISCA over IP, S700PTP protocol, and CGI, enabling remote camera control using external commands, and also supports IP Tally, providing wide support for remote production.
Additionally, the Sony BRC-AM7 also supports the free-d protocol, which is used in virtual production such as AR and VR. It can accurately output camera tracking information (pan/tilt/zoom/focus/iris) into 3D space, making it possible to seamlessly combine footage of real people with 3DCG backgrounds and characters.
