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Sony has released an innovative camcorder designed for video professionals who need to confirm the authenticity of their footage. The PXW-Z300 is the first handheld camera to embed digital signatures directly into video files, allowing users to verify their real content.
This high-end 4K camera includes impressive technology. It features three 1/2-type sensors, AI-driven autofocus that can follow subjects even if they turn away, and a flexible 17x optical zoom lens. It operates on Sony’s Bionz XR processor.
However, you’ll need a separate license to access the features and verify content authenticity. These features will only work with MP4 files, and Sony hasn’t announced their availability.
Triple-Sensor Tech Meets Pro Zoom
The Sony PXW-Z300 XDCAM stands out because of its unique triple-sensor setup. Instead of using a single large sensor, Sony has included three smaller 1/2-type Exmor R CMOS sensors — one for each color: red, green, and blue. This design allows the camera to produce vibrant colors and great sensitivity, which cameras with only one sensor often struggle with.
The lens is also quite impressive. It maintains a constant f/1.9 aperture throughout its 17x optical zoom range (equivalent to 30.3-515mm). If you need more zoom, digital extenders can increase magnification to 2x, 3x, or 4x in Full HD, and 1.5x when recording in 4K.
All this imaging capability is powered by Sony’s top-of-the-line Bionz XR chip, the same technology used in their premium Alpha series cameras.
Recording Capabilities and Smart Features
The Sony PXW-Z300 records 4K video at up to 60 frames per second in several formats, including MXF with MPEG HD422, XAVC Intra with 10-bit color, XAVC Long, and proxy MP4 files. Its Picture Cache Record feature continuously saves footage before you press record, ensuring you won’t miss important moments.
The standout feature is Sony’s AI autofocus, which can identify and follow people even when they are small in the frame or facing away. The Auto Tracing White Balance helps maintain natural skin tones as subjects move through different lighting.
Additionally, the camera automatically keeps subjects centered in the frame without needing any adjustments from the operator. It also includes optical image stabilization, support for 3D LUTs, HLG and S-Cinetone presets, and the ability to record four audio channels, making it a powerful tool for production.
Professional Controls and Connectivity
The camera’s physical controls are designed to meet the expectations of professional users. The device has three rings for adjusting focus, zoom, and iris. The focus ring enables fast switching between manual and automatic modes. The electronic variable ND filter can be smoothly adjusted from 1/4 to 1/128 strength, either manually or automatically by the camera.
It includes everything you need for connectivity: SDI, timecode, genlock, HDMI, and USB ports. It also has a side-mounted V-Mount that works with Sony’s PDT-FP1 Portable Data Transmitter for wireless use. Storage options include dual slots that support CFexpress Type A and SDXC UHS-II cards, although CFexpress 4 is not compatible.
Additionally, it has a bright LCD monitor and a design that feels familiar to experienced operators.
Pricing and Availability
Sony keeps us guessing about the price and release date of the Sony PXW-Z300 XDCAM. Last year’s PXW-Z200, which has a single sensor, costs around $4,350, so we expect this new triple-sensor model to be priced higher.
The content authenticity feature is impressive, but there are some conditions. You’ll need to purchase an extra license, which only works with MP4 files. Sony hasn’t announced when this feature will be available.
For now, the camcorder will be showcased at BIRTV 2025 in Beijing. The new video recording technology complies with C2PA standards, enhancing authenticity for journalists and filmmakers. Hopefully, Sony will soon introduce similar authentication features for their Alpha cameras.
[via PR Newswire; Image credits: Sony]
