Sony unveils HXR-NX5U solid-state AVCHD-recording camcorder

Sony has introduced the HXR-NX5U, its first professional solid-state camcorder to use the AVCHD format.

The camcorder, part of Sony’s NXCAM family of video products, features the company’s Exmor CMOS sensor with ClearVid array to deliver full HD resolution and low-light sensitivity with low noise. The HXR-NX5U will record AVCHD up to 24Mb/s, delivering 1920 x 1080 HD in both interlace and progressive modes as well as native 1080/24p, 720/60p and MPEG-2 SD formats.

Sony also has introduced a “prosumer” camcorder, the HDR-AX2000 Handycam camcorder. However, only the professional NX5U camcorder includes HD-SDI and HDMI outputs as well as two-channel linear PCM audio capabilities. Other features unique to the NX5U include 720/60p recording, built-in GPS function, SMPTE time code I/O and an upgrade option making it possible to switch between 60i/50i.