4 September 2017

Sony launches ruggedised multicamera solution

· High-quality imaging technology in an ultra-compact and tough body - waterproof1, 2, shockproof3, 1 and crushproof4

· Featuring ZEISS Tessar T* 24mm6 F4 Fixed wide-angle lens with maximum shutter speed of up to 1/32,000 second and ability to shoot at up to 16 fps7

· Range of creative video functionality including 40x Super Slow motion8 recording, Picture Profile (S-Log2), and 4K9 Clean HDMI Output


Sony has announced a waterproof1, 2, shockproof3, 1 and crushproof4 camera which it says will enable entirely new imaging possibilities. The DSC-RX0 marries the hallmark image quality of the Sony RX series with advanced photo and video capabilities, all compressed into a robust and ultra-compact body.

The RX0 is equally adept at shooting still images, filming video or as part of a multicamera setup. Weighing just 110g10 and measuring 59mm x 40.5mm x 29.8mm (WxHxD)11, the RX0 redefines how small and light a premium compact camera can be. It can be used as a standalone camera for capturing photos or videos in any shooting conditions including the rain, underwater, or in sandy or dusty environments.
Source: Sony. The RX0.
Source: Sony. The RX0.

In addition to conventional bullet-time and time-slice shooting, the RX0 multicamera shooting solution can be organised in different ways. Sony’s wireless radio commander, the FA-WRC1M can be used to trigger up to 1512 RX0s. The PlayMemories Mobile13 app allows up to five RX0 models to be connected wirelessly and the form factor means that units can easily be secured in tough shooting positions to capture new perspectives. A wireless multicamera shooting solution capable of connecting further RX0 units when an access point is used14 is currently being developed and will be released in January 2018 via a firmware update. For users looking for a more reliable wired connection, a camera control box is also being developed and will be released in January 2018.

RX0 is packed full of advanced Sony technology and features a 1.0-type stacked 15.3 MP6 Exmor RS CMOS image sensor5, BIONZ X processor and a wide-angle ZEISS Tessar T* 24mm F4 fixed lens to deliver high resolution and less distortion results for both RAW and JPEG stills and across all supported video formats. It has an Anti-Distortion Shutter of up to 1/32,000 second and can shoot at up to 16 fps, meaning that even fast moving objects are beautifully and accurately rendered.

The RX0 is waterproof1, 2 at depths of up to 10 metres and when used with the new MPK-HSR1 Housing, can be used down to 100m underwater15. It is shockproof3, 1 when dropped from up to 2 metres and crushproof4, 1 to 200kgf/2,000N, making it durable enough to withstand shooting in situations where traditional cameras cannot go.

The RX0 was conceived as a camera that is just as useful to the videographer as the photographer and this spirit manifests itself with a host of creative video features delivering stunning video results. For those who want to incorporate super slow motion footage8 the RX0 offers the opportunity to shoot at up to 1,000 frames per second.

For production flexibility, users can choose 4K clean HDMI output to record uncompressed video to an external recorder. With both MF Assist and Peaking Functions, the focus can be precisely adjusted to exact specifications and Picture Profile options and S-Log2 offer creative freedom. Time Code/User Bit features provide an essential tool for multicamera shoots in particular, making the editing process a much easier experience, while Preset Focus options more control.

New accessories for the RX0 have also been launched. These include the VCT-CGR1 cage for increased system flexibility, the MPK-HSR1 housing, the CPT-R1 cable protector, VF-SPR1 spare lens protector, VFA-305R1 filter adaptor kit which includes filter adaptor, lens hood and MC protector, NP-BJ1 rechargeable battery pack and ACC-TRDCJ accessory kit.

Interested?

RX0 will be available at all Sony stores, Sony Centres and selected Sony authorised dealers from October 2017. View the technical specificationsGet details of pricing and availability

1 Depending on usage conditions and circumstances, no guarantee is made regarding damage to, malfunction of, or waterproof performance of this camera.

2 Compliant with JIS/IEC protection levels (based on Sony tests). Shooting in depths of up to 10m is possible for up to 60 minutes (JIS: Japan Industrial Standards; IEC: International Electrotechnical Commission).

3 Capable of withstanding a fall of 2m from MIL-STD-810G C1 Method 516.7-Shock compliant 5 cm plywood (based on Sony tests).

4 Capable of withstanding a load of 200kgf /2,000N (based on Sony tests).

5 Approximate effective megapixels.

6 35mm equivalent.

7 In Speed Priority Continuous mode. Focus and exposure settings fixed at first shot.

8 Up to 1,000fps super slow motion can be recorded. Image quality approaches Full HD quality at 250fps in Quality Priority mode. Sound cannot be recorded when shooting slow motion and setting conditions of focus, exposure, focus area, frame rate and other settings are fixed when start shooting. Micro SDHC/ Micro SDXC memory card of Class 10 or higher is required.

9 QFHD:3,840×2,160.

10 Approximate weight with battery and media included.

11 Approximate dimensions.

12 Wireless Radio Receiver FA-WRR1 and Multi Terminal Cable VMC-MM1 are required.

13 For smartphone or tablet. Latest version is required.


14 Depending on the specifications of an access point, smartphone or tablet to be used as well as the radio wave environment of the installation location, the number of devices that can be connected will vary.


15 Under water, the shortest focal distance is increased, causing the angle of field to be narrower.