Sony PMW-F55 4K LIVE PACKAGE

The Sony PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera features an 8.9MP Super 35mm image sensor capable of capturing 4K, 2K, and HD resolution video in a variety of formats via the camera’s internal recorder. The F55 is among the first digital motion picture cameras with a global shutter, which completely eliminates motion skew and other rolling shutter distortions. Sony has designed the F55 as the foundation of an exceptionally versatile and modular system.

Optional components of the F55 system include bolt-on recording units, a series of digital viewfinders, and camera support rigs, all sold separately. Notably, the AXS-R5 recorder (sold separately) can be mounted onto the rear of the F55, enabling 4K and 2K 16-bit raw recording and high-speed frame rates up to 240 fps in 2K (240 fps 2K and 60 fps 4K/2K will require a free firmware upgrade). In keeping with Sony’s mandate on versatility, the F55 has a native FZ mount which will provide an interface for Sony’s SCL-Z18x140 auto focus servo zoom lens (sold separately) as well as a wide range of lens adapters, such as the included PL mount adapter.

Many digital sensors can match and even surpass traditional motion picture film for resolution and low-light image quality, but with approximately 14.3 stops of dynamic range, film has maintained an advantage over most digital sensors. However, the F55’s exposure latitude is rated at 14 stops of dynamic range, for truly filmlike rendering of highlights and shadows. Moreover, the F55 incorporates the same color filter array technology used in Sony’s flagship F65, for a color gamut that is even wider than motion picture film.

Onboard 4K recording requires high data rate recording media, and the F55 will use Sony’s newly developed SxS PRO+ memory cards. A 128GB card will provide enough space for approximately 40 minutes of 4K video in the XAVC Intra 422 format. SxS PRO+ cards will also allow onboard recording of 2K video at up to 180 frames per second (requires a free firmware upgrade) as well as SStP 4:4:4 at 440 Mb/s when set to RGB.

Sony PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera
The Sony PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera features an 8.9MP Super 35mm image sensor capable of capturing 4K, 2K, and HD resolution video in a variety of formats via the camera’s internal recorder. The F55 is among the first digital motion picture cameras with a global shutter, which completely eliminates motion skew and other rolling shutter distortions. Sony has designed the F55 as the foundation of an exceptionally versatile and modular system.

Optional components of the F55 system include bolt-on recording units, a series of digital viewfinders, and camera support rigs, all sold separately. Notably, the AXS-R5 recorder (sold separately) can be mounted onto the rear of the F55, enabling 4K and 2K 16-bit raw recording and high-speed frame rates up to 240 fps in 2K (240 fps 2K and 60 fps 4K/2K will require a free firmware upgrade). In keeping with Sony’s mandate on versatility, the F55 has a native FZ mount which will provide an interface for Sony’s SCL-Z18x140 auto focus servo zoom lens (sold separately) as well as a wide range of lens adapters, such as the included PL mount adapter.

Many digital sensors can match and even surpass traditional motion picture film for resolution and low-light image quality, but with approximately 14.3 stops of dynamic range, film has maintained an advantage over most digital sensors. However, the F55’s exposure latitude is rated at 14 stops of dynamic range, for truly filmlike rendering of highlights and shadows. Moreover, the F55 incorporates the same color filter array technology used in Sony’s flagship F65, for a color gamut that is even wider than motion picture film.

Onboard 4K recording requires high data rate recording media, and the F55 will use Sony’s newly developed SxS PRO+ memory cards. A 128GB card will provide enough space for approximately 40 minutes of 4K video in the XAVC Intra 422 format. SxS PRO+ cards will also allow onboard recording of 2K video at up to 180 frames per second (requires a free firmware upgrade) as well as SStP 4:4:4 at 440 Mb/s when set to RGB.

8.9MP Super 35mm CMOS Image Sensor
With 8.9 effective megapixels (11.6 total MP), the Sony 4K CMOS sensor captures a true 4K 4096 x 2160 DCI-standard cinema image. The sensor approximates the size of traditional 2-perf, Super 35mm motion picture film, allowing cinematographers to use their favorite lenses on the F55 without a significant disparity in apparent angle of view.
Internal 4K/2K/HD Recording
The F55 CineAlta camera incorporates high-speed SxS PRO+ memory card recording that allows the choice of 8-bit MPEG-2 HD422 at 50 Mb/s, 10-bit XAVC 2K/HD at 100 Mb/s, SR Codec 10-bit MPEG4 SStP at 220/440/880 Mb/s, and XAVC 4K/QFHD at 300 Mb/s. All formats can be recorded at a range of interlace and progressive frame rates. Some recording settings will require a free firmware upgrade.
Electronic Global Shutter
Traditional CMOS sensors employ what is commonly known as a “rolling shutter.” The F55 is among the first digital motion picture cameras with a global shutter, which completely eliminates motion skew and other rolling shutter distortions.
Highly Modular Design
In addition to the AXS-R5 recorder, a digital interface on the F55 allows for a variety of optional viewfinders. The DVF-EL100 is a 0.7″ OLED viewfinder with 1280 x 720 resolution. The DVF-L350 is a 3.5″ LCD viewfinder with 960 x 540 resolution, and the eyepiece flips up for direct monitoring. The DVF-L700 is a 7″ LCD viewfinder with 1920 x 1080 resolution for monitoring Full HD pixel-for-pixel. Other modular components include the optional Sony shoulder rig, which features industry-standard rosettes on both sides for quick and easy attachment of third-party handgrips and other accessories.
Optional AXS-R5 “Bolt-On” Recorder
The AXS-R5 recorder, sold separately, is designed to dock onto the rear of the PMW-F55 to enable 4K and 2K resolution video recording in 16-bit raw. The AXS-R5 also facilitates high-speed frame rates of up to 240 fps in 2K and simultaneous raw + onboard SxS recording. The recorder uses Sony’s newly developed AXSM memory cards, which are compatible with an optional USB 3.0 reader (AXS-CR1). Raw files can be screened using Sony’s free RAW Viewer software.
Native FZ Mount and PL Mount Adapter
The F55 is designed to accommodate a wide range of lenses. With the PL mount adapter, you can take advantage of acclaimed cine optics from Angénieux, Canon, Zeiss, Cooke, Fujifilm, Leica, and more. Slip off the supplied PL mount adapter to reveal the native FZ mount with an 18mm flange focal distance. The FZ mount provides an interface for native FZ lenses like Sony’s SCL-Z18X140 autofocus servo zoom lens, or a range of adapters for still lenses including Canon EF, Canon FD, Nikon F, Leica M, and more.
Dynamic Range Rated at 14 Stops
The ability to render a range of exposure values from deepest shadows to brightest highlights is a crucial test of any digital camera. The F55 is capable of an impressive 14 stops of exposure latitude, low-light sensitivity, and low noise in the blacks. The digital sensor’s dynamic range approaches that of traditional motion picture film.
Wider Color Gamut than Film
The F55 incorporates the same advanced color filter array technology as Sony’s flagship F65, for a color gamut that is even wider than motion picture film.
SxS Pro+ Media Cards
Onboard recording of XAVC 4K and 180 fps XAVC 2K/HD requires high data rate recording media. The F55 will use Sony’s 64 and 128GB SxS PRO+ memory cards. A 128GB card will provide enough space for approximately 40 minutes of 4K video in the XAVC Intra 422 format.
Intuitive One-Touch Interface
Designed with significant input from cinematographers, the F55 features an intuitive interface for a range of controls. Instead of diving through menus, you get direct one-touch access to key shooting parameters including frame rate, shutter speed, color temperature, ISO sensitivity, and gamma. Assignable buttons mean that your favorite adjustments are always at your fingertips.
Real-Time 4K Output and Other Vital Connections
The F55 supports real-time 4K output to a compatible monitor via four 3G-SDI outputs. There is also HDMI, USB, DC input, a removable XLR audio module, and a removable time code/genlock module. The XLR inputs accept balanced analogue signals, provide 48V phantom power, and will accept four channels of AES/EBU digital audio with an expected firmware upgrade.
Long-Life Olivine Battery and Quick Charger
The F55 takes advantage of Sony’s BP-FL75 battery pack, which uses olivine lithium iron phosphate instead of conventional lithium-ion cathodes. The result is a substantial increase in charge/discharge cycles, compared to previous Sony batteries. The olivine battery works with Sony’s BC-L90 quick charger. The camera is also compatible with Sony’s BP-GL95A, GL65A, L80S, and L60S batteries, which use the BC-L70 and L160 chargers.
Sony CA4000 4K Fiber Transmission Camera Adaptor
The CA4000 4K Fiber Transmission Camera Adaptor from Sony permits live capture of 4K, providing Super 35mm 4K for live events such as sports, concerts and live studio programming. With the CA4000 adaptor attached to the docking interface of the PMW-F55 (sold separately), the Super 35mm 4K CMOS sensor camera is turned into a 4K Live system camera with High Frame Rate (HFR) capabilities and innovative HD cut-out operation.

The 4K Live system works with the same range of Remote Control Panels (RCPs) and Master Setup Units (MSUs) as current HDC Series system cameras, providing a future-proofed migration path for customers. The system works across standard SMPTE fibre cables for distances up to 1.24 miles away.

The CA4000 works with the BPU4000 Base Band Processor Unit (sold separately) to route 4K signals from the PMW-F55 camera. Thanks to the BPU4000, the 4K/HD picture is almost same as the HDC Series system camera and permits HDCU2000/2500 Camera Control Unit (CCU) operation.

Docks to PMW-F55 16-Bit 4K RAW Camera
With the CA4000 adaptor attached to the docking interface of the PMW-F55, the Super 35mm 4K CMOS sensor camera is turned into a 4K Live system camera.
4K Fiber Transmission Up to 1.24mi
The 4K Live system works across standard SMPTE fiber cables for distances up to 1.24 miles away.
Supports HDCU-2000/2500 CCU Operation
The CA4000 works with the BPU4000 Base Band Processor Unit to route 4K signals from the PMW-F55 camera. Thanks the BPU4000, the 4K/HD picture is almost same as the HDC Series system camera and permits HDCU2000/2500 Camera Control Unit (CCU) operation.
High Frame Rate Recordings
The camera allows High frame rate (HFR) recordings up to 240 frames per second at 1080/50p
HD Cut-Out Functionality
It is possible to cut out a Full HD image from the 4K picture in real-time, allowing, for example, for the camera to be in a fixed camera position and operator free giving a wide view of the action, an area of which can be selected by the director.
Same Interface as HDC-2500 Camera
The CA4000 provides the same interface as the HDC-2500 to the camera operator such as RET, INTERCOM and MENU control.
BPU4000 Operates without HDCU-2000/25000 CCU
The BPU4000 has AC power capability to allow it work without the HDC-2000/25000 CCU. 4K output and down-converted HD output are available from BPU4000.
Sony VCT-FSA5 Shoulder Mount Accessory for PMW-F5/ PMW-F55
The Sony VCT-FSA5 Shoulder Mount Accessory for PMW-F5/PMW-F55 is specifically built to allow you to comfortably hand hold the F5/F55 camera for documentary style shooting. The shoulder mount features a low profile to maintain a low center of gravity and a sliding balance mechanism for adjusting the camera’s balance front to back. It includes two stainless steel 15mm support rods, and two 1/4″-20 camera tie down screws.

The mount integrates a rubberized foam cushion for comfort, and two Arri compatible mounting rosettes for accessories. It is made from cast aluminum and features the necessary front wedge and back plate to fasten it to an available VCT-14 quick release plate. This allows you to go from tripod to hand held mode and back to tripod mode quickly, easily, and without having to adjust the shoulder pad.

Sony BPU-4000 4K Base Band Processor Unit
The BPU-4000 4K Base Band Processor Unit from Sony routes 4K signals from the PMW-F55 Super 35mm 4K CMOS sensor camera fitted with CA4000 4K fiber transmission adaptor. The BPU-4000 generates 4K and HD signals at a similar color matrix to match to the current Sony HD camera system, 4K and HD signal outputs simultaneously. The BPU-4000 works with the HDCU-2000/2500 to permit the same system operation as the current HDC camera system.

The BPU-4000 works with the same range of Remote Control Panels (RCPs) and Master Setup Units (MSUs) as current HDC Series system cameras, providing a future-proofed migration path for customers. The system works across standard SMPTE fiber cables for distances up to 1.24 miles away.

Routes 4K Signals from the PMW-F55 Camera Fitted with CA4000
The BPU4000 works with the CA4000 to route 4K signals from the PMW-F55 Super 35mm 4K CMOS sensor camera. The BPU4000 generates 4K and HD signals at a similar color matrix to match to the current Sony HD camera system, 4K and HD signal outputs simultaneously.
Supports HDCU-2000/2500 CCU Operation
The BPU4000 works with the HDCU-2000/2500 to permit the same system operation as the current HDC camera system including Reference signal, Return Video signal, Tally, Intercom and Sony RCPs/MSUs.
4K Fiber Transmission Up to 1.24mi
The 4K Live system works across standard SMPTE fiber cables for distances up to 1.24 miles away.
Can Operate Without HDCU-2000/25000 CCU
The BPU4000 works without the HDC-2000/25000 CCU by supplying power to the PMW-F55 and CA4000 side locally. The BPU4000 has Reference signal and Return signal inputs and supports RCP control.