The new camera features a 10.2 MP full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor that delivers a 15+ stop wide dynamic range with high sensitivity and low noise.
Sony has launched the FX6 (model ILME-FX6V) full-frame professional camera, the latest addition to Sony’s Cinema Line, a series of products that brings the company’s expertise in imaging technology to a broad range of filmmakers and content creators.
As part of the Cinema Line, the FX6 incorporates Sony’s core technologies of an image sensor, processing engine, and AF (autofocus) performance. FX6 is also compatible with the wide range of Sony E-mount lenses which promise creative flexibility.
The new camera features a 10.2 MP full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor that delivers a 15+ stop wide dynamic range with high sensitivity and low noise. FX6’s base sensitivity is ISO 800 with an enhanced sensitivity setting of ISO 12,800 – expandable to 409,600 – for shooting in low and very low light conditions.
It is capable of recording in XAVC All Intra 4:2:2 10-bit depth with in DCI 4K (4096 x 2160 – up to 60p), QFHD 4K (3840 x 2160 – up to 120p) and FHD (1920×1080 – up to 240p) for detailed slow motion.
When more convenient file sizes are needed, FX6 can record in XAVC Long GOP 4:2:0 8-bit QFHD 4K (3840 x 2160 – up to 120p6) and 4:2:2 10-bit FHD (1920×1080 – up to 240p). FX6 also includes a BIONZ XR image processing engine, first used in the new Sony Alpha 7S III camera, providing up to four times faster processing performance compared to the FS5 II.
Developed with the same expertise as Sony’s Venice cinema camera, FX6 aims to offer advanced cinematic colour science including S-CinetoneTM for richer tonal reproduction right out of the box as well as SLog3, S-Gamut3 and S-Gamut3.
FX6’s cinematic colour science is optimised for premium applications by capturing the maximum dynamic range from the sensor and providing creative freedom. Leveraging the colour science of Venice, FX6 also allows productions to easily match footage with other cameras in the cinema line.
Pulling from Sony Alpha’s AF features, FX6 offers Fast Hybrid AF by combining 627-point focal-plane phase-detection AF with advanced Face Detection and Real-time Eye AF in high frame rates with continuous AF, allowing camera operators to track fast-moving subjects in slow motion without losing focus.
Fast Hybrid AF works with over 50 native E-mount lenses and at even 4K 120p. The camera can also capture up to five times slow-motion with 4K (QFHD) 120fps. The new FX6 also offers internal electronic variable ND filters for easy and seamless control of the camera’s filter density.
Users can set variable ND to auto or adjust the filter density manually in smooth increments from 1/4 to 1/128 for exposed images without affecting the depth of field or shutter angle, even during changing lighting conditions.
Built with a durable magnesium alloy chassis, measuring just 4.6 inches x 6 inches x 4.5 inches (116mm x 153mm x 114mm) and weighing just 1.96 pounds (0.89kg), FX6 has a compact and lightweight design making it easy for users to grab and shoot at any time.
The new camera includes a heat-dissipating structure to keep the camera’s components within their normal operating ranges to prevent overheating, even during extended recording times. FX6 also features a modular design allowing users to easily pair accessories, such as grips and viewfinders, or attach the camera to other mechanisms, such as gimbals and drones.
FX6’s 3.5-inch LCD Viewfinder can be attached to multiple locations of the camera body which aims for added freedom and easy menu control with touch operation. Using a quick-access control menu for commonly accessed features, camera operators can change key settings with a single touch – including codec, imager scan mode, picture size and frequency, base ISO and sensitivity, shooting mode and audio levels.
FX6 includes a 12G-SDI output that also supports 16-bit RAW, HDMI output, timecode in/out, built-in Wi-Fi and four-channel audio recording (via XLR Interface, Multi-Interface Shoe and builtin Stereo Mic). The new camera also features two media slots compatible with CFexpress Type A cards for higher overall capacity and faster read and write speeds in addition to SDXC UHS-II/UHS-I cards.
Additionally, Sony’s Catalyst Browse/Prepare software facilitates fast and easy editing. Users can import FX6’s image stabilisation metadata into Catalyst Browse/Prepare to transform handheld footage into incredibly smooth and stable visuals.
FX6 also has a Clip Flag button to easily filter and locate preferred takes using Catalyst Browse/Prepare. This software also reflects metadata indicating when FX6 is rotated or in its normal position, eliminating the need to rotate footage beforehand. FX6 is also compatible with Sony’s content browser mobile app to monitor and control focus, iris, and zoom remotely.
“The new FX6 is the latest example of Sony’s drive to continuously push the boundaries of imaging technology based on the needs of our customers,” said Ryo Ochi, General Manager, Digital Imaging Division, Sony Electronics Asia Pacific. “With the advancement of our Cinema Line, we are dedicated to enabling the extraordinary skills and talent of today’s content creators and cinematographers. The FX6 leverages technology from Sony’s industry-leading Venice cinema camera and marries it with the best of Sony’s innovative Alpha mirrorless camera technology.”
