Just recently on Shotecamera.com, it was reported that Panasonic is preparing to present its new modular full-frame L-mount movie camera – Lumix BS1H, and today the camera has already been presented.
The new Lumix BS1H modular cinema camera features a 24-megapixel sensor and measures only 36 x 24 mm. The novelty has received a dual base (Native) ISO and allows you to record video in 6K format using the entire area of the full-frame sensor.
Compared to the BG1H Modular Cinema Camera (previously introduced by Panasonic), the new Panasonic Lumix BS1H Cinema Camera looks like this.
The new camera from Panasonic is based on the already famous camera with advanced video capabilities – Lumix S1H, which implies high image quality in low light levels and a wide dynamic range of more than 14 stops, which this camera possessed.
Like the “younger” model Lumix BGH1 with an MFT sensor, the new Lumix BS1H is designed for specialized tasks: video streaming, remote and multi-camera shooting, as well as for filming, while the new product has all the advantages of a compact camera.
The new Panasonic Lumix BS1H is capable of capturing video at up to 6K resolution, has the ability to record RAW video through a Blackmagic recorder and supports high-speed video recording at up to 120 fps.
Lumix BS1H has no matrix stabilization system (unlike Panasonic S1H). However, it is possible to use electronic stabilization.
With regards to video capabilities, the new Panasonic Lumix BS1H received a maximum video resolution of 6K. Video is recorded at a frequency not exceeding 24 fps and uses the entire camera sensor. This is why we get a frame with an aspect ratio of 3: 2 at the output. And when recording video at a frame rate of 30 fps, the resolution drops slightly to 5.4K, and when the aspect ratio is changed to 16: 9, the output resolution will already be 5.9K at a frame rate of 30 fps.
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In addition, the manufacturer made it possible to record different video formats in 4K and. FullHD: DCI 4K, UHD 4K, 4: 2: 2 10-bit 60 fps, however, at such a frame rate, not the entire sensor area (only Super35) is used. The full 4K frame width is only available at 30fps or less.
It is also possible to use anamorphic mode when shooting in 4K, and in FullHD mode, the maximum frequency can be reached up to 180 fps. Shooting at a high frequency of up to 120 fps is possible with sound and continuous autofocus, which, according to the manufacturer, will also be highly appreciated by operators.
The new Lumix BS1H offers high-definition video recording and RAW video capture, but only via the HDMI output. In this variant, the camera records 4K 60fps 4: 2: 2 10-bit via HDMI. As well as 5.9K, 4K, and 3.5K anamorphic (4: 3) 12-bit RAW video using Atomos Ninja V (Apple ProRes ) or Blackmagic recorder (BRAW).
As previously stated, the new Lumix BS1H cine camera offers over 14 stops of dynamic range when using V-Log or V-Gamut profile. But the design and dimensions are almost identical to the BGH1 with a Micro 4/3 mount. Both cameras have almost identical physical dimensions, although the weight of the new item is slightly higher: 585 grams versus 545 for the version with a micro M4 / 3 sensor.
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It is also reported that the new Lumix BS1H has received an active cooling system. This function provides ample opportunities for video recording without time limitation due to possible limitations from overheating.
The new Lumix BS1H has many interface ports and connectivity options that the S1H lacks, including the popular 3G-SDI connector for film and TV and an integrated Ethernet (RJ-45) port with PoE (Power over Ethernet) support.
In addition, the Lumix BS1H also has an HDMI Type-A port. And a USB Type-C 3.1 port, although it does not allow you to charge the camera.
But for sound recording, a 3.5 mm stereo input jack is used. However, you can also attach an optional DMW-XLR adapter for use with XLR mic. It is also reported that the camera provides two SD UHS-II ports for storing footage.
If we talk about multi-camera video recording in BS1H, then this possibility is easily realized thanks to the Genlock In and Timecode In / Out ports. This makes it easy to sync footage from multiple cameras. At the same time, using the LUMIX Tether for Mutlicam mobile application, you can control twelve cameras at once. For streaming data (RTS / RTSP), a LAN port is used, the maximum video quality through it is 4K 60fps H.265. The camera also has the usual 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE 4.2 wireless modules.
The new Panasonic Lumix BS1H can be purchased by pre-order. The company’s online store or from authorized dealers, and its price in the US is about $ 3500 In USA. The price tag has not yet been announced. The Panasonic Lumix BS1H is expected to begin shipping to first customers this November 2021.
Key features of the new Panasonic Lumix BS1H cinema camera:
- Full frame mirrorless camera.
- Bayonet mount: Leica L (Sigma, Leica, Panasonic).
- The “B” in the name “BS1H” probably means Box-Style S1H, which makes sense.
- 24-megapixel full-frame sensor.
- ISO 100-51200 expandable to 50-204.800.
- Dual Native ISO (two basic ISO). Which at different ISO values different electrical circuits for reading and processing data work.
- 10-bit C4K / 4K 59.94 / 50 (35mm).
- 6K / 24p, 5.4K / 30p, 5.9K / 30p.
- 4: 2: 2 10-bit to internal storage.
- VFR C4K / 4K, 2-60 fps, FHD 2-180 fps.
- RAW and ProRes RAW 12-Bit over HDMI (also available for 5.9K / 30p).
- V-Log and V-Gamut, 14+ stops of dynamic range.
- Two slots for SD memory cards supporting UHS-II.
- Simultaneous output of RAW and ProRes RAW via HDMI and 4K recording to memory cards is possible.
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
- Weight 585 grams.
- Price about 3500 US dollars