Panasonic Announces LUMIX S1H: A game changing Full Frame Cine Camera with World’s First 6K/24p

A world First:

The S1H will be the world’s first camera able to record 6K/24p (3:2 aspect ratio), 5.9K/30p (16:19 aspect ratio), and 10bit 60p 4K/C4K – bringing pro-level cine camera capabilities to a far more manageable package. The addition of 6K will provide plenty of latitude for editing and downsampling, which will enable maximum quality 4K output.

Like Panasonic VariCam cinema cameras, the S1H will benefit from the 14+ stop dynamic range and wide colour space of full V-Log/V-Gamut, promising lifelike rendition of every detail, from shadows to highlights, with smooth tonal gradations.

The dazzling array of capabilities offered by the S1H includes:

 6K full-frame capture in 10-bit internally, delivering new flexibility to filmmakers, enabling higher quality 6K output and greater scope to crop, pan or further stabilise in post-production while maintaining the detail of 4K resolution

 Cinema 4K/4K 60p/50p recording in 10-bit internally to satisfy the most discerning purist

 Dual Native ISO for amazing low-light performance

 Dual I.S. (Image Stabilisation) 2 up to 6.5 stops, for powerful stabilisation correction

 V-Log/V-Gamut with 14+ stops of dynamic range, delivering rich gradation and a wide colour space

In addition, HDR (High Dynamic Range) in HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma), and Anamorphic 4:3 modes are available together with a variety of practical tools for film making, such as tally lights, a waveform monitor and a V-Log View Assist function.

The ergonomic design includes unlimited recording time via a new heat dispersion structure, a rugged, reliable body, dual SD Card slots, and a newly-designed high-luminance monitor.

The LUMIX S Series full-frame mirrorless camera system adopts the L-Mount system to provide users with a diverse and future-proof range of products. With a roadmap forecasting more than 46 interchangeable lenses to be available by 2020 (from Panasonic, Leica Camera and Sigma), the L-mount is fast becoming the most versatile camera system on the market.

Scott Mellish, Senior Product Marketing Manager, LUMIX, said: “Panasonic has a long history of developing professional cinema cameras for demanding filmmakers. We are proud to introduce this milestone camera which sets new benchmarks in what cinematographers can achieve from a mirrorless system.

“The S1H offers unlimited recording in all modes, with new heat dispersion technology, while still maintaining the weather sealing and durability that discerning customers have come to expect.”       
Key Capabilities

Video Recording second to none in its class

Newly designed full-frame sensor with Dual Native ISO Technology Whenever professional-level low-light shooting is required, the LUMIX S1H is ready for action.

The newly designed 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor (35.6 mm x 23.8mm) features Dual Native ISO technology, first introduced in the flagship VariCam lineup. The sensor can leverage a dual-base ISO setting, resulting in minimised noise and outstanding image quality

from low to high sensitivity. Dual Native ISO gives cinematographers a greater variety of artistic choices as well as the ability to use less light on the set, saving time. The LUMIX S1H’s Dual Native ISOs are 640 and 4000ii. This feature teams up with the Venus Engine processor to deliver maximum ISO 51200 / Extended ISO 204800iii. In addition, a low-pass filter effectively minimises moiré patterns.

High Resolution up to 6K for multiple formats By maximising the use of the pixels in the full-frame image sensor, the LUMIX S1H has achieved 6K/24p (3:2 aspect ratio) or 5.9K 24p/25p/30p (16:9 aspect ratio) video recording for the first time in the world. It is also the world’s first full-frame digital interchangeable lens system camera to enable 10-bit 60p 4K/C4K HEVC video recording when using the image area equivalent to Super 35mmv. The 4:2:2 10-bit 4K30p is recordable in H.264 at its full area at an impressive 400mbps utilising an All-Intra codec. It accommodates a variety of recording formats, including 4:3 Anamorphic mode, to meet professional needs.

Rich gradation and a wide colour space rivalling those of cinema cameras The LUMIX S1H features V-Log/V-Gamut with a wide dynamic range of 14+ stops, in line with the dynamic range of the Panasonic VariCam, to precisely capture everything from dark to bright areas. Subtle gradations such as skin tones are faithfully reproduced. Designed with consistent colour management in mind, the S1H’s recorded footage is compatible with VLog footage recorded by VariCam, or V-Log L footage recorded by the LUMIX GH5/GH5S, enabling an easier post-production workflow.

Robust video expression features (VFR, HFR) The LUMIX S1H is designed to offer outstanding, multifaceted video performance. VFR (variable frame rate) functionality supports both overcranking and undercranking. Users have access to 2.5x slow (24p/60 fps) in C4K/4K and 7.5x super-slow (24p/180 fps) in FHDvi. HFR (high frame rate) recording includes audio and autofocus at 120fps, allowing users to create slow-motion video in post-production, while maintaining a high bit rate and 10-bit internal recording. There are convenient tally lights on the front and rear of the camera.

4:2:2 10-bit internal recording / HDMI output Featuring an incredibly rich colour profile, C4K/4K 24p/25p/30p 4:2:2 10-bit video is recordable in-camera. When set for 10-bit recording, the camera simultaneously delivers 4:2:2 10-bit HDMI output, making possible high-image-quality capture with an external recorder. The 4:2:2 10-bit format has approximately 128 times the information of 4:2:0 8-bit and is capable of expressing over 1 billion colours. This massive volume of colour information is highly valuable in post-production, making it possible to adjust colour dynamically and radically and even turn daylight scenes into nighttime scenes. Leveraging the expressive power of a full-frame camera takes 4K video to exciting new places.

High reliability and expandability to support professional work

5-Axis Dual I.S.

2 supporting up to 6.5 stops Panasonic’s 5-Axis Dual I.S. 2 offers excellent stability in a range of situations. A high precision gyrosensor joins the Dual I.S. system of 5-axis in-body stabilisation and 2-axis optical stabilisation in selected lenses for highly accurate shake detection and compensation. This makes it possible to use up to 6.5 stops slower shutter speed in both photo and video. Incredibly stable performance can be achieved when shooting handheld at much slower shutter speeds and ISO values, reducing the need to carry a tripod, gimbal or Steadicam rig. The electromagnetically-driven shutter system provides quiet, steady shooting.

High product reliability that allows unlimited video recording

Panasonic has focused its expertise in heat management to develop and incorporate a cooling fan in the LUMIX S1H that efficiently disperses heat. This allows the camera to deliver non-stop video in every recording mode, supporting every type of long-form video shooting, including documentaries, interviews and events.

The S1H fan has different settings. For example, AUTO1 starts the fan soon after shooting begins, to keep heat down and facilitate longer shoots. AUTO2 uses the fan only when necessary. Ultra-quiet performance, rugged design, and low vibrations for minimal effect on the image stabilisation system are other features that complement this new structure.
The tough body takes challenging shooting environments in its stride. The magnesium alloy full die-cast frame is highly durable, while sealing protects every seam, dial, and button, as well as the fan. The camera is dust and splash-resistant and designed for use at temperatures down to -10°C. The durable shutter unit will withstand around 400,000 releases.
The LUMIX S1H is equipped with two high-speed SD Memory Card slots, supporting UHS-II SD Cards and Video Speed Class 90. The 7.4-V 3,050 mAh high-capacity battery (with a long recording time of approximately 2 hours in all recording modes) can be quickly charged via USB PD (USB Power Delivery), using the bundled USB3.1 Type-C cable for high-speed data transfer.

Expandability for creative freedom A HDMI Type A terminal is provided, with a cable lock holder for extra security. Time Code IN/OUT synchronisation is available via the flash synchro terminal and the bundled BNC converter cable. This streamlines the non-linear editing of footage shot with multiple cameras.
A variety of accessories can be used in common with the S1R and S1 – including a Microphone Adaptor (DMW-XLR1), Remote Shutter (DMW-RS2), Eyecup (DMW-EC6), Battery Grip (DMW-BGS1) and Battery Charger (DMW-BTC14). MIC, LINE and CONDENSER MICROPHONES are switchable. The DMW-XLR1 allows professional microphones to be connected for the best audio quality. The Battery Charger also complies with USB PD and enables quick power charging in approximately two hours. The camera can be used while charging via the Battery Charger adaptor. The Panasonic External Flash (DMWFL580L / FL360L / FL200L) can also be mounted on LUMIX S Series cameras.
Fieldwork is also streamlined with Bluetooth 4.2 Low Energy connection and secure 5GHz Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11ac) providing convenient remote control and sharing with other devices, and fast data transmission. Lumix Sync for iOS/Android devices enables photo transmission to a smartphone or tablet via easy wireless connection. It also allows remote control of the camera using a smartphone or tablet. Lumix Tether software enables tethered shooting. Users can control the camera by connecting it to a PC via USB. Images can be viewed on a large PC screen while shooting, which is helpful in commercial photoshoots of portraits, products and so on, where continuous confirmation is required.

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