SYDNEY—Sony Electronics has announced the next two firmware updates for the BURANO, the newest addition to the CineAlta family of digital cinema cameras. 

The firmware updates, BURANO Version 1.1 and Version 2.0, are planned to be released over the next year and will include additional recording formats, new de-squeeze options and monitoring updates as well as other features and requests from the cinematic community. 

Planned for release in late June 2024, BURANO Version 1.1 includes new features for live event production and the addition of 1.5x de-squeeze display for anamorphic lenses. Version 1.1 will add S700 Protocol over Ethernet which enables remote control of a BURANO using an RCP (remote control panel). Controllable settings include exposure, white balance, paint, and others (depending on the RCP model). Version 1.1 also enables support for Multi Matrix Area Indication. This feature allows users to adjust targeted colors during Multi Matrix operation. 

In addition, BURANO Version 1.1 also allows support for Sony’s Monitor & Control app version 2.0.0 which enables in demand features such as Multi-Camera Monitoring function for iPadOS. This in turn allows feeds for up to four cameras and precise exposure monitoring including waveform, histogram, false color and zebra, Sony reported. 

Some other features include intuitive focus control and frequently used functions' control - a similar operation to Sony's CineAlta cameras using a mobile device such as frame rate, ND filter, sensitivity, look, shutter speed and white balance. Sony’s Monitor & Control app is free and available for iOS and Android devices.

Planned to be released in March 2025 or later, BURANO Version 2.0 offers many new features and improvements requested from the user community, including new recording formats, new 1.8x de-squeeze, and monitoring improvements.

Version 2.0 will include new recording formats including a new 3.8K Full Frame crop that leverages nearly the entire sensor and can shoot up to 120 fps. This new recording mode allows the filmmaker to prioritize faster sensor performance depending on the needs of their application. Other new recording formats include the addition of 24.00 fps to X-OCN 16:9 imager modes and the following:

• Full Frame; 3.8K 16:9 Mode; Up to 120 fps
• Super 35; 4.3K 4:3 Mode (for Anamorphic); Up to 60 fps
• Super 35; 1.9K 16:9 Mode; Up to 240 fps

BURANO Version 2.0 will also add 1.8x de-squeeze setting as well as additional high frame rate (S & Q) modes including 66, 72, 75, 88, 90, 96, 110 fps. 

Version 2.0 also offers monitoring improvements, including standardized SDI video output for monitoring across X-OCN and XAVC and an improved on-screen display which places camera status information outside of the image. Version 2.0 will also include View Finder Gamma Display Assist while using S-Log3 for monitoring. 

BURANO Version 2.0 also includes additional exposure tools (High/Low Key) derived from the flagship VENICE camera system. Version 2.0 will also expand white balance memory presets from 3 to 8 and support Active/High Image Stabilization in Full-Frame 6K and Super 35 1.9K 16:9 imager modes. 

Finally, Version 2.0 will add breathing compensation and image stabilization metadata in X-OCN. 

The new BURANO Version 1.1 will be available in late June 2024. BURANO Version 2.0 will be available in March 2025 or later. Filmmakers can easily download the update directly to their camera using a Mac or PC. For more details click here .

RØDE has announced a major new firmware update for its all-in-one audio production studio and interface RØDECaster Pro II that introduces advanced sub-mixing to all of the RØDECaster Pro II’s outputs and expands on the routing feature introduced in the last major update (1.0.7). 

The advanced sub-mixing feature is especially powerful for streamers who need to send different mixes to different audio destinations, such as stream and chat applications and their headphone mix, the company said and will also be useful for podcasters and other content creators. 

In the prior upgrade, with firmware version 1.0.7, users were able to customize each of the USB and Bluetooth outputs by selecting which channels would be heard on these outputs, RØDE explained. 

The new update takes this functionality to the next level, allowing users to independently adjust the level of each channel for all ten audio outputs (both digital and analog), including the headphone and monitor outputs, the Bluetooth channel, on-board recording mix, and the three USB outputs, the company said. 

From the main mixing screen, users can tap the settings cog in the top-right corner of the screen, navigate to ‘Outputs’ > ‘Routing’, and choose one of the ten outputs to configure. From here, users will notice that every output has a ‘Custom’ option at the top of the screen – tapping this will show users the new sub-mix screen for that output, RØDE said. 

The company also reported that in the sub-mix screen, users can independently set the levels of each channel by tapping the virtual fader of the channel you wish to change and turning the rotary encoder. 

RØDE noted that this feature is especially useful for streamers because it allows them to finetune the audio they hear in your headphones separately to the audio sent to their chat and stream. 

For podcasters, this means that hosts and guests can hear entirely different mixes to what’s being recorded on the RØDECaster Pro II itself or what’s being sent to the computer. This level of customization adds a new flexibility to the RØDECaster Pro II, expanding on its existing immense capabilities as an all-in-one audio production studio and interface.

In addition to the new advanced sub-mixing feature, firmware 1.1.1 introduces a number of system optimizations and workflow improvements, including the routing of voice effects, which are now applied to each individual channel in multitrack mode, allowing users to capture these effects while maintaining the post-production flexibility that multitrack recording offers.

The RØDECaster Pro II’s companion software RØDE Central has also been updated to mirror all of the configuration options now available on the RØDECaster Pro II itself, including setting up the advanced APHEX® audio processing, SMART pads and custom sub-mixes.

The firmware is available for download here.  

WAYNE, N.J.—JVC Professional Video has released new firmware upgrades for its GY-HC900 and GY-HC500 cameras, bringing SRT-focused enhancements to the Connected Cam camcorders, including network adaptive encoding, PCR fast mode and an SRT decoder for return video delivery via the internet, the company announced. The additions position JVC’s Connected Cam camcorders for remote integrated model (REMI) production.

The firmware update also adds a unique portrait mode with cropping to the GY-HC500 Series. The feature, added based on the request of users, is intended for those who stream to social networks like TikTok and Instagram Stories. One of five cropping positions can be selected prior to shooting, JVC said.

“The Connected Cam system provides a truly plug-and-play streaming ecosystem that does not require expensive backpacks,” said Joe D’Amico, vice president of JVC Professional Video.

“Building off the incorporated SRT open-source technology, we are able to continually provide firmware updates, ensuring that JVC cameras are a futureproof solution for an ever-evolving media landscape. With the latest upgrades to the GY-HC900 and GY-HC500 series cameras, our customers are afforded a wide array of functions to enhance their workflows.”

Support for Network Adaptive Encoding/Adaptive Bitrate Streaming enables the encoder to monitor network conditions and reduce bitrate when there’s network congestion or high packet loss. Combined with automatic repeat request (ARQ) and forward error correction, the feature makes SRT transport resilient to network congestion, data loss and high jitter, the company said.

The new PCR Fast Mode ensures glass-to-glass latency of less than one second when streaming to the JVC BR-DE900 decoder and SRT-capable video switchers, it said.

The new support for return video via the internet enables confidence monitoring on the cameras’ LCD electronic viewfinders, teleprompter support and two-way remote guest communication.

The firmware update for the GY-HC500 is available today as a free download. The new GY-HC900 series firmware is scheduled for mid-month.

More information is available on the company’s website.

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J.—A new firmware meant for the UV-1G wireless intercom is now available from Radio Active Designs that will boost users’ audio routing capabilities.

One of the new features for the firmware is Scene Change, which enables every belt pack to communicate with multiple departments during an event or can be used to create a mix of communications channels specific to the user’s needs. With Scene Change, belt packs can roam between studios, theaters and buildings using multiple antenna zones to communicate with multiple base stations in multiple areas. All belt packs may switch to preset parameters with a push of a button.

The firmware update is compatible with all Windows, Apple and Linux-based operating systems. Also, software adds a side tone on all four channels.

The firmware is available for download for free on RAD’s website.

NEWARK, N.J.—A bevy of VariCam cameras from Panasonic are receiving new firmware upgrades, including the VariCam 35, HS, LT and Pure cinema camera. The VariCam 35/HS now offers v7.5 firmware; VariCam LT offers v5.5; and VariCam Pure has v7.5.

Some of the new features available through the firmware is a new high speed menu mode available for the VariCam LT. The new menu enables 240p RAW output for 2K or HD. There is also a new software reboot that is completed with the control panel rather than needing to turn off the physical power switch of the camera. A new REC Check function for the 35, HS and LT allows users to check the first five and last five seconds of the latest clip for tail slate marking.

VariCam LT

All models will now have an expanded frame rate range in high speed mode down to one fps, allowing capture from one to 240p for the VariCam HS and LT models; one to 120p for the VariCam 35 and Pure. Anamorphic desqueeze is now available in play back as well as when recording. A horizontal desqueeze of 1.3x or 2x is available for SDI Out or VF SDI. An option to apply grading data recorded with clip on play back. The LT can set play back grading menu from play display on GUI.

Additional features include RDD18 camera metadata on MON output; INFRA mode to support WM50MC and Planex GW-900D; user clip name Type3 on OSD is off as default for the 35, HS and LT models; deleted CPS password system for 35 and HS; fixed card remain time bug of AVCLongG at 23.98 for 35, HS and LT; support for Canon EF 24-105mm F4 L-series USM lens just for LT; and fixed valid frame flag bug on RAW output for LT.

All of the new firmware is available for free download through the Panasonic website.

NEWARK, N.J.—Panasonic is making sure not to leave any of its VariCam cameras out with its new firmware upgrade. The free upgrade, which offers additional ProRes codecs and HD-SDI Monitor output improvements, will be available for the VariCam 35 and LT cinema cameras as well as the VariCam HS high-speed 1080p camera. This is version 7.0 for the VariCam 35 and HS, and version 5.0 for VariCam LT.

VariCam LT

Both versions of the firmware upgrade feature the addition of ProRes 4444 XQ, ProRes 422 and ProRes 422 LT. The bit depth of ProRes 4444 has been increased to 12-bit, with 10-bit file playback only in camera. Specifically for the VariCam LT, AVC-LongG G50/G25 recording (HD only) is now support for nearly all frame rates.

Users can now shorten the delay of the HD-SDI monitor outputs to two frames. Support of 23.98PsF output is also available, providing native frame rate support without introducing 2:3 pulldown artifacts. Support for “Letter Box” output in 4K/2K is also available, in which the image in MON OUT will be automatically set in “Letter Box” mode.

The new firmware also supports a new remote control app for the iPad, the VariCam ROP, which features a user display akin to VariCam’s menu display. A 2.0:1 aspect ratio has been added as a framer marking choice.

Specific features of version 7.0 includes the ability to select image invert and surround view independently in the VariCam 35 and HS cameras, as well as allowing users to select the viewfinder display as EE (camera through) in playback. In version 5.0, the VariCam LT’s audio level meter can be selected to display SDI OUT.

The new firmware upgrades can be downloaded for free on the Panasonic website.

GRASS VALLEY, CALIF.—AJA Video Systems has released v2.0 firmware for its Ki Pro Ultra system. The newly updated software now comes with Avid DNxHD support to the portable file-based 4K/UHD/2K/HD video recorder and playback device, allowing for users to record and playback Avid DNxHD .mov files.

Ki Pro Ultra v2.0 now supports DNxHD codecs HQX, SQ and LB. It also is able to support video frame rates of 1080p 23.98, 24, 25 and 29.97; 1080i 25 and 29.97; 1080PsF 23.98, 24, 25 and 29.97; and 720p 50 and 59.94.

In addition, AJA has announced that Ki Pro Ultra, Ki Pro Rack and Ki Pro Quad now include Ki Protect to help ensure data integrity if a media drive is accidently removed or is shut off during recording.

Ki Pro Ultra v2.0 is now available as a free software download.

WAYNE, N.J.—JVC has announced the release of the Version 1.02 firmware upgrade for its GY-HM660 ProHD mobile news cameras. The upgrade is free for all current GY-HM660 owners.

With the upgrade, users now have two channels of IFB for the camera operator and talent, allowing for communication with the studio when in the field. The camera also offers three upgraded 12-bit CMOS image sensors; a 3.5-inch LCD display for daylight viewing; SMPTE 2022 or Zixi forward error correction, automatic repeat request, and adaptive bit rate control; and integrated support for real time messaging protocol.

Version 1.02 is available for download through the JVC website.

NEWARK, N.J.—Panasonic is offering new capabilities for its VariCam 35 4K and VariCam HS cameras/recorders, announcing the firmware upgrade to version 6.0. The new firmware expands the cameras recording options and offers operational and workflow improvements.

VariCam 35

Version 6.0 encompasses support for writing data to Panasonic’s B series expressP2 cards for 4K and high frame-rate recording, which feature improved read/write speeds and an increased capacity 512GB in addition to the standard 256GB card. Viewfinder and Viewfinder-SDI outputs can now be displayed in different color settings. Compatibility with Panasonic’s AJ-WM50 wireless module for dual-band connectivity at both 2.4 and 5 GHz is also included.

Additional features with the update include in camera color corrections being able to be applied to footage played back from the camera; ability to save color control files separately on SD cards; a 2.201:1 aspect ratio indicator; audio volume adjusting by the menu dial; a user SW function; a “look around” function; ProRes HQ codec support for 1080/60i/50i; and more.

Panasonic’s new firmware upgrade is available now to download here.

NEWARK, N.J.—Panasonic��s AG-DVX200PJ 4K camcorder has a new firmware upgrade that is available for customers, according to the digital electronics provider. This upgrade is version 1.51 of the professional camcorder that can capture 4K/UHD, HD and SD, including cinematic DCI 4K 4006x2160.

This new firmware changes the default color palette of the camera for a reportedly more natural look. Custom looks that were created using the previous default settings can still be used by reverting to version 1.4’s designated color settings in the camera’s menu.

Firmware version 1.51 can be downloaded for free by DVX200PJ customers here.

NEWARK, N.J.—Now available for download, Panasonic has announced a new firmware upgrade for its AG-DVX200PJ 4K 4/3-inch handheld camcorder.

AG-DVX200PJ

New features for Version 1.25 includes a fast scan mode to the menu options for 4K24p, UHD29.97p, UHD23.98p and UHD25p, as well as color reproduction at higher brightness levels. The upgrade also reduces potential black dot noise in 4K/UHD, corrected the playback image aspect ratio, and improves the ISO gain value display.

Panasonic wasn’t the only company to announce something new for the AG-DVX200. IDX has released two new 7.2V batteries for the AG-DVX200, the SL-VBD64 and SL-VBD96. Both batteries feature a four LED remaining capacity indicator, an X-Tap and a USB power port. Both IDX batteries are now available.

Panasonic is offering the Ver. 1.25 upgrade to AG-DVX200 customers for free. The upgrade can be downloaded here.

WAYNE, N.J. – JVC Professional Video has announced the soon to be released version 2.0 firmware upgrade for the GY-LS300 4KCam camcorder. Among the features in the upgrade is the addition of a JVC Log mode, which duplicates the look for film, new Cinema 4K and Cinema 2K recording modes, a Prime Zoom feature, and histogram.

GY-LS300 4KCam

The JVC Log mode for the GY-LS300 delivers wide latitude and high dynamic range up to 800 percent. Version 2.0 also adds 4096x2180 Cinema 4K and 2048x1080 Cinema 2K recording modes at various frame rates, each with a 17:9 aspect ratio. The camera’s Super 35 CMOS sensor also brings higher contrast ratio and provide details within highlights and shadows.

Using JVC’s Variable Scan Mapping technology, GY-LS300’s Prime Zoom feature provides native support of various lenses when paired with third-party lens adapters. When combined with a Micro Four Thirds prime lens, the image can be adjusted between the maximum and minimum scan area using the zoom rocker. This allows the camera to deliver 2.3x maximum zoom for HD and 1.25x maximum zoom for 4K. The Prime Zoom feature can also be used as a lens extender for zoom lenses.

Other new features in the version 2.0 upgrade include a histogram display, color matrix adjustment, spot meter, black paint setting, and a new 70Mbps recording mode.

The version 2.0 firmware upgrade will be available starting in September.

NEWARK, N.J. – Panasonic has announced that a new, free firmware upgrade for VariCam 35 4K and VariCam HS camera/recorders is now available. Upgrade Version 4.0 expands recording options and enables a variety of post-production workflows.

VariCam 35

Elements of the firmware upgrade include the addition of Codex V-RAW recorder, which adds uncompressed RAW capture to the VariCam 35 platform by enabling the recording of 4K RAW up to 120fps and can connect directly to the VariCam 35. In addition, support for HD recordings in Apple ProRes 4444 is also part of the upgrade, enhancing workflow options and premium HD image capture. Anamorphic lens support for 1.33:1 and 2.0:1 lenses offers simultaneous recordings of squeezed and de-squeezed images, as well as on set monitoring with de-squeezed images in the viewfinder and HD monitors.

Version 4.0 of VariCam 35 4K and VariCam HS firmware upgrade can be downloaded here.

WAYNE, N.J. – JVC Professional Video has announced that a new firmware upgrade for ProHD streaming camcorders is now available. Version 4.0 is available for the GY-HM650 and Version 2.0 is available for GY-HM850 and GY-HM890 models.

JVC ProHD camcorder

The new updates include adaptive bit rate technology, which automatically adjusts video quality by taking advantage of available bandwidth and increases streaming reliability from the field. High quality 12 Mbps mode is available for streaming within closed networks for quality wireless signals and iamges. Real Time Messaging Protocol support allows for CDN connectivity without a computer or video infrastructure. Live webcasts can be initiated by pressing a single button on the camera thanks to a recent partnership with Ustream.

The GY-HM600 ProHD camcorder has also received a new upgrade, Version 4.0, that adds zebra function to the LCD, color change for simultaneous use of zebra and focus assist, and improved preset zoom control.

Updates are available for free for all current ProHD camcorder owners on the JVC website.

Sound Devices presented expanded recording capabilities, along with greater flexibility and ease-of-use outdoors for the company’s flagship 664 Production Mixer. Sound Devices showcased the benefits of the 664’s latest firmware update, Version 1.05, at the 135th International AES Convention (Gotham Sound and Communications, Booth 2738).

Sound Devices 664 features six ultra-low-noise, high-dynamic-range preamps that accept mic- or line-level signals and include analog peak limiters, high-pass filters, input trim control and direct outputs per channel. Featuring full analog audio paths for high-performance audio and superb power efficiency, the 664 also has numerous digital capabilities. Inputs 1 and 6 can be selected as AES3 or AES42 inputs for digital microphones, each with its own SRC for simplicity in system clocking. The 664’s analog output compliment includes four output buses. The L and R buses are on balanced XLR, 10-Pin and TA-3M connectors and on unbalanced TA-3M or 3.5mm connectors. Secondary output buses X1 and X2 are available on balanced TA-3M connectors. Users can route inputs and buses to four AES3 connections for eight digital outputs on the XLR and 10-pin connectors.

Firmware version 1.05 brings additional features to the mixer, including greater flexibility and ease-of-use outdoors. The “LCD Daylight Display” mode incorporates a daylight-specific color scheme and solid bar metering option for improved readability in direct sunlight. Sound Devices has also incorporated additional front-panel button shortcuts, including “LCD Daylight Display” mode (HP + SELECT encoders) and Phrase list (HP + RTN B/C) for fast entry of metadata notes. Version 1.05 also incorporates the shortcut for activating different setup tone modes. Users also have new “Track Names in Meters” options (without color gradient/ramp) that are selectable for either right- or left-side display.

With version 1.05, 664 now offers users Monophonic Broadcast WAV file support, with the ability to record up to 10 tracks to two cards, with up to three seconds of record pre-roll. If a card not optimized for multichannel monophonic file recording is used, or if the monophonic 10-track limit is exceeded, a warning message is displayed on the LCD when starting a recording. Polyphonic mode or reducing track count is recommended. In addition, when formatted in the 664, SD cards 64GB and larger are now automatically formatted as ExFAT (in accordance with the SD Association’s recommendation). All CF cards and lower-capacity SD cards remain FAT32. Version 1.05 also enables a Headphone Volume or Headphone Preset default option, which sets the HP encoder to operate as headphone level or to select HP presets when rotated. Pressing the headphone encoder momentarily activates the alternative function.

Existing 664 users can download version 1.05 for free by visiting http://www.sounddevices.com/download/664-firmware/.