Archive - June 2019

Panasonic delivers ultimate Hollywood to Home experience with the world’s most cinematic television

June 17, 2019

Consumer Electronics, Televisions, Uncategorized

2019 features include Hollywood and Technics tuning, Dolby Atmos, HDR10+, Dolby Vision and HLG, with an updated HCX PRO Intelligent Processor for stunning picture accuracy

Panasonic has launched its line-up of OLED and LED LCD televisions for 2019, with the next-generation GZ2000 OLED Series the flagship in the new range.
The ‘world’s most cinematic TV’ boasts notable features, including a new custom Professional Edition 4K OLED panel optimised by leading Hollywood colourist, Stefan Sonnenfeld, and a new HCX PRO Intelligent Processor delivering unrivalled detail, brightness and astounding colour accuracy.
The GZ2000 OLED Series features the world’s first built-in upward-firing speakers to support Dolby Atmos, and the audio system is tuned by Technics engineers with JENO Engine technology. This delivers the maximum effect, with a spherical soundstage that puts the listener in the centre of the action.
The OLED range and premium LED LCD TVs also support HDR10+ technology, Dolby Vision and HLG, providing users with the broadest range of dynamic HDR metadata to date, for the best possible images – regardless of the source.

Josh Marshall, Category Manager, Home Entertainment, Panasonic, said:
“Panasonic has once again raised the bar when it comes to delivering the ultimate Hollywood experience to the home. We’re proud of our 2019 TV range and confident that Australians will enjoy the enhancements made to offer the most cinematic TV on the market.”
Panasonic has enjoyed more than 20 years of collaboration with Hollywood professionals. With industry experts tuning the company’s OLED TVs, and valuing them so highly that several leading colourists use the screens on a daily basis as their large-format reference monitors, Panasonic’s TV range continues to bring the filmmaker’s creative intent to life.

Key capabilities

Panasonic has expanded its OLED Series in 2019 with the GZ2000, GZ1500, and GZ1000 Series. All three Series are available in 65-inch screen sizes, and the GZ1000 is also available in 55-inch. They benefit from the tuning skills of leading Hollywood colourist, Stefan Sonnenfeld, to create a highly accurate and truly cinematic image.
Panasonic has also released five new 4K LED LCD Series – the GX880, GX850, GX800, GX740 and GX600. The flagship GX880 and GX850 Series, like the OLED range, are powered by the new HCX PRO Intelligent processor.

Panasonic’s 2019 OLED TVs and LED LCD TVs from the GX740 Series up are the world’s first televisions to support both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, and also offer Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) and HLG Photo, with Dolby Atmos also supported.
HLG Photo means HDR is no longer just for moving images. By pairing a compatible camera, the new range of Panasonic TVs will bring breathtaking moments captured on holiday into the home, with a wider dynamic range.
Panasonic’s Smart TV platform has also been upgraded in all OLED models and LED LCD models from the GX740 Series and above, with the new My Home Screen 4.0 now smarter and more intuitive than ever. The refreshed interface features the most popular streaming applications for Australians including Stan , Netflix, Prime Video and YouTube, allowing quick and easy access to content at any time.
These models also boast support for popular voice control technology including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, to integrate seamlessly into the modern Australian smart home.
The complete 2019 TV range also showcases Panasonic’s renowned minimalist design, which enhances viewing experiences while seamlessly harmonising with living spaces. There’s no better way to bring Hollywood to the Home than Panasonic’s sleek and stylish 2019 range.

Panasonic 2019 Television line-up

OLED TV RANGE: GZ2000U, GZ1500U and GZ1000U

The new 2019 OLED line-up is colour-tuned by leading Hollywood colourist, Stefan Sonnenfeld, founder and CEO of Company 3, to deliver exceptional colour accuracy.
The colourist for some of the decade’s most acclaimed films including A Star is Born, Wonder Woman, Man of Steel, Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Jurassic World, Sonnenfeld has championed the power of colour grading to convey emotion and storytelling through film. Like many other renowned colourists, Sonnenfeld uses Panasonic OLED screens as large-format client reference monitors in his daily workflow.
The GZ2000’s bespoke Professional Edition 4K OLED panel has been customised by Panasonic’s R&D engineers to deliver exceptional control and accuracy. The average brightness level has been boosted and contrast handling enhanced, to achieve an increased dynamic range for high-impact HDR content.
In response to requests from Hollywood’s professional users, Panasonic has extended the range and reduced the interval between calibration steps at the darkest end of the RGB and gamma scales. The GZ2000 is also one of the first TVs to support CalMAN PatternGen test patterns from Portrait Displays’ CalMAN software, along with AutoCal functionality. Imaging Science Foundation (isf) calibration settings are also supported.
Across the OLED range, the HCX PRO Intelligent processor swiftly analyses and optimises the colour, contrast and clarity of 4K video content, which allows TVs to consistently deliver the most accurate colours, even in scenes where brightness levels and contrast vary widely.

This, along with the colour-optimising of Sonnenfeld, means Australians can watch Hollywood blockbusters at home as they are meant to be experienced, with the technical accuracy of their OLED screen matching the director’s creative intent.

GZ2000 – built-in upward-firing speakers capable of delivering Dolby Atmos

The 2019 OLED Series is capable of delivering Dolby Atmos content. Dolby Atmos creates a captivating sound experience, transporting viewers to the soundscapes of their favourite films and shows, to provide a powerful and breathtaking entertainment experience.
With the GZ2000 OLED Series featuring Technics-tuned upward and front-firing Dolby Atmos speakers, viewers can experience extraordinary immersive audio in the comfort of their own home.
It isn’t just the Dolby Atmos technology that makes for a dynamic sound experience with powerful bass. Each speaker in the audio system has been tuned by Technics engineers, with proprietary JENO Engine technology for accurate, refined sound.

4K ULTRA HD LED LCD TV RANGE

GX880 Series 4K ULTRA HD LED LCD: TH-75GX880A

75-inch big-screen viewing at its best with excellent picture quality – including the HCX PRO Intelligent Processor, a 200 Hertz motion refresh rate Super Bright Panel Plus, local dimming for clear bright images, and precise contrast and gradation.
Provides the smooth motion needed for fast moving action such as sports.
4K HDR Game Mode with fast response times and rapid image processing to deliver crisp, finely detailed images.
Stylish chrome look and silver base.

GX850 Series 4K ULTRA HD IPS LED LCD: TH-65GX850A/TH-55GX850A

Panasonic’s 200 Hertz motion refresh rate Super Bright Panel Plus is further enhanced with Local Dimming Pro, which combines backlight control and signal processing control, so brightness can be fine-tuned in thousands of areas across the screen.
Features a premium slim metal bezel and Panasonic’s Switch Pedestal with adjustable feet, to conveniently adapt to the width of a TV cabinet and offer flexibility depending on furniture configuration in the home.

GX740 Series 4K ULTRA HD IPS LED LCD: TH-65GX740A/TH-55GX740A

Delivers impressive 4K viewing with Super Bright Panel Plus and local dimming for rich colour and detail.
Versatility with a Twin HD Tuner and Bluetooth audio.
Features Panasonic’s Switch Pedestal with adjustable feet to conveniently adapt to the width of a TV cabinet and offer flexibility based on furniture configuration.

GX600 Series 4K ULTRA HD IPS LED LCD: TH-65/55/49/43 GX600A (no IPS on 65 inch)

Support for HDR10 and HLG Photo.
Delivers impressive 4K viewing with a Super Bright Panel for rich colour and detail.
Features Panasonic’s Switch Pedestal with adjustable feet to conveniently adapt to the width of a TV cabinet and offer flexibility based on furniture configuration.

MODEL	AVAILABLE	RRP
4K OLED Models
TH-65GZ2000U	September	$8299
TH-65GZ1500U	July	$6199
TH-65GZ1000U	July	$5799
TH-55GZ1000U	July	$3599
4K Premium LED LCD Models
TH-75GX880A	July	$4999
GX850 Series
TH-65GX850A	July	$2499
TH-55GX850A	July	$1899
4K LED LCD Models
GX800 Series
TH-65GX800A	Now	$2399
TH-55GX800A	Now	$1749
GX740 Series
TH-65GX740A	Now	$2099
TH-55GX740A	Now	$1549
GX600 Series
TH-65GX600A	Now	$1999
TH-55GX600A	Now	$1449
TH-49GX600A	Now	$1199
TH-43GX600A	Now	$999

Panasonic launches new Soundbar range for an impressive cinematic experience

June 17, 2019

ALL Connected Audio, Audio and Accessories, Blu-ray Recorders & Players, Consumer Electronics

Panasonic has unveiled its latest Soundbar range, bringing Hollywood-quality sound into Australian homes for outstanding cinematic entertainment.

Panasonic’s 2019 Soundbar range boasts state-of-the-art features including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X™ and Chromecast, as well as 4K and HDR Pass Through capability – ensuring this year’s collection is Panasonic’s most musically refined to date, and allows listeners to totally immerse themselves in their favourite content.

The flagship HTB900 Soundbar is designed to match the company’s latest TV line-up and is tuned by Panasonic’s acclaimed Technics audio specialists. It brings every movie to life, delivering a sound field that heightens acoustic realism. With support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X™, powerful, dynamic sound takes listeners right inside the cinematic experience.

Selected models in the range offer increased connectivity to stream music around the home with seamless control, via built-in Chromecast which works with Google Assistant. In addition, 4K Pass Through allows today’s high-definition 4K video content to be passed through a Soundbar from a 4K source (e.g. PVR or UHD Blu-ray deck) to a 4K TV.

Aaron Waters, Product Marketing Manager, Audio and Video, Panasonic, said:

“Panasonic’s flagship Soundbars pair with our Atmos-enabled TV and Blu-ray offerings, to provide consumers with the best solution to create their very own ‘Hollywood to Home’ experience.”

“The state-of-the-art technology incorporated in this year’s range allows viewers to be truly immersed in whatever content they are watching – movies, shows or sports fixtures – and enjoy a sensory experience like never before. Our aim is to bring those nail-biting scenes and tear-jerking moments to life for viewers, and our 2019 home entertainment range makes this possible while blending seamlessly into any living space.”

In 2019, Panasonic has also introduced an updated range of Blu-ray players, micro and mini systems and Bluetooth headphones.

Panasonic 2019 audio releases

SOUNDBARS: HTB900, HTB700, HTB510

At the top of the range, Panasonic’s flagship HTB900 Soundbar has been carefully crafted for both realistic and powerful sound to complement the visual performance of the company’s OLED TVs, as well as delivering refined and magnificent reproduction of a wide range of music.
Panasonic has kept the modern Australian smart home in mind, with Google Assistant compatibility allowing hands-free playback control when paired with a Google smart speaker.

The HTB900 and HTB700 are Panasonic’s first Soundbars to feature Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, the latest object-based audio formats that deliver the most immersive soundstage possible. Combined with Panasonic’s speaker system, the solution offers powerful, dynamic sound. When watching movies, the sounds of voices, objects and music come to life and viewers feel as though they are inside the action.

Also supporting 4K and HDR Pass Through, the HTB900 and HTB700 allow content to be transmitted from a UHD Blu-ray player, straight through the Soundbar to a 4K TV, performing the required processing for optimal performance while watching UHD movies.

In addition, the HTB900 and HTB510 include built-in Chromecast to provide an effortless, wireless entertainment experience.

Panasonic’s 2019 Soundbars have been designed to integrate perfectly with the company’s 2019 TV range and surrounding spaces, harmonising with the interior of any room.

High quality speaker systems

Tuned by acclaimed audio specialists Technics, the HTB900 delivers the most refined sound possible. Tapping into the expertise of renowned audio engineers and designers, Panasonic’s flagship Soundbar delivers audio that perfectly complements the visuals so the user feels a genuine sense of acoustic realism.

The HTB900 can produce a powerful soundstage from even the most sonically demanding movie soundtracks. It boasts a substantial 505W of power, which is shared among six 6.5cm mid-range speakers positioned across the face of the unit and a High-Res Audio compatible tweeter on each end. The HTB700 achieves 376W output via a total of three 6.5cm mid-range speakers positioned across the face of the unit.

Both the HTB900 and HTB700 feature redesigned enclosures and cones, while the low frequency range has been extended in the main unit. This fine-tuning has improved the clarity of vocals, allowing users to hear all dialogue through the main unit, so they can view content without any distraction.

The rigidity of the HTB900 and HTB700 has been increased by adopting a honeycomb rib structure, using a long port within the cabinet, and by increasing the thickness of the components. Any vibrations which might cause sound quality degradation have been suppressed, resulting in clearer audio.

Connectivity supporting seamless integration

The HTB900 and HTB510 include built-in Chromecast to provide effortless, wireless and coordinated entertainment. Allowing the user to easily stream their favourite music services, radio or podcasts from a smartphone or other mobile device, Chromecast delivers a truly accessible experience.

Using multi-room sync, the same song can be played in several rooms – or different music can be played from room to room – on integrated Chromecast devices. Since the data is streamed directly to the Soundbar from the router, there is no degradation in sound quality.

If a Google Home or other Google Voice-activated speaker is networked to the HTB900, Google Assistant can be used to operate music playback and other features. Voice commands can be used to play podcasts and streaming services such as Google Play Music and Spotify.

HTB900

Panasonic’s first ever Soundbar to support both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X™ formats
Tuned by Technics
Total of eight speakers, including two High-Res tweeters
Supports 4K and HDR Pass Through
Integrated, minimalist, clean design, crafted to match Panasonic OLED TVs
Built-in Chromecast to provide an effortless, wireless and coordinated entertainment experience
High-res audio capability and impressive bass thanks to a wireless subwoofer that requires no connection cords
Works with Google Assistant, allowing hands-free playback control using voice commands

HTB700

Supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X™ formats
Supports 4K and HDR Pass Through
High-res audio capability and impressive bass thanks to a wireless subwoofer that requires no connection cords
Honeycomb rib structure suppresses vibrations to prevent sound quality degradation
Integrated, minimalist, clean design, crafted to match Panasonic OLED TVs

HTB510

240W output for a more powerful bass
Built-in Chromecast to provide an effortless, wireless and coordinated entertainment experience
Offers customers the flexibility of either using an optical input or HDMI ARC
Dynamic and robust bass with two independent speakers and a powerful wireless subwoofer
Compact design with a low profile and sleek form is a perfect match for Panasonic 2019 TVs
Dark metallic finishes and black textile speakers make for a refined and seamless design that blends in with home entertainment systems

AVAILABILITY AND PRICING

MODEL	AVAILABLE	RRP
SC-HTB900GNK	July	$1349
SC-HTB700GNK	July	$899
SC-HTB510GNK	Now	$549

BLU-RAY PLAYERS

Panasonic continues to offer the widest range of Blu-ray players on the market. The UB9000 is the market’s premium Blu-ray offering, and has been enhanced with Control 4, offering integration with home automation systems. At the entry-level, Panasonic has launched the UB150 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player, which offers consumers support for HDR10+ technology and Dolby Atmos.

UB150 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player

Reaffirming the company’s commitment to the Blu-ray market, the UB150 is equipped with HDR10+ technology to deliver stunning picture quality. The UB150 delivers an exceptional, realistic cinematic experience with richly textured images, achieving a wider, brighter dynamic range than conventional SDR to produce more natural, more lifelike images when viewed on a HDR-compatible TV.

The player features Dolby Atmos compatibility, enabling an immersive 3D soundstage with a compatible audio device such as a TV, Soundbar or AV receiver.

The UB150 is also equipped with High-Resolution Audio reproduction. In addition to conventional MP3/AAC/WMA formats, high res audio music files such as DSD (11.2MHz/5.6 MHz/2.8 MHz) ALAC, FLAC, WAV and AIFF can be reproduced. By connecting the device to a home audio system (such as the 2019 Panasonic Soundbar range), users can enjoy music sources with studio master sound quality.

Key Features:

Ultra HD Blu-ray playback (4K/HDR)
Supports HDR10+ and HDR10
Dolby Atmos compatibility
4K 60p/50p/4:4:4 Output
Premium sound with high-resolution audio playback (DSD, ALAC, FLAC, WAV and AIFF)

AVAILABILITY AND PRICING

MODEL	AVAILABLE	RRP
DP-UB150GN-K	Now	$279

MICRO SYSTEM PMX92 AND MINI SYSTEM AKX320

Panasonic has launched two new compact high-powered audio systems for 2019 – the PMX92 and the AKX320.

PMX92

The PMX92 micro system boasts an AUX-IN Autoplay feature, which makes listening to streamed music via devices such as Chromecast Audio completely effortless – the system will automatically switch on and select the correct input.

As well as Bluetooth, FM/DAB+ radio and CD playback, the PMX92 has an optical input for TV. The powerful 120W system offers sound with greater resonance and clarity than a TV’s own speakers can produce.

It is powered by the latest generation of Panasonic’s LincsD-amp, and has three-way speakers with silk dome tweeters, piezo tweeters and bamboo charcoal PP woofers that produce a natural, distortion free sound.

AKX320

The AKX320 mini system has a mighty, powerful sound with a large 16 cm woofer and 450W output power, while featuring a slew of DJ effects. Compatible with the MAX Juke app, the AKX320 allows party guests to request or create a line-up of their favourite dance tracks to get the party started.

Furthermore, the AKX320 is crafted from distinctly different surface textures of matte and gloss, creating an elegant contrast. With a lower height than previous models, the main unit provides greater flexibility in positioning within a room. The system also offers Bluetooth® Wireless Technology and Double USB (Plug & Play).

AVAILABILITY AND PRICING

MODEL	AVAILABLE	RRP
SC-PMX92GN-S	Now	$549
SC-AKX320GNK	Now	$359

2019 HEADPHONE RANGE

Panasonic has expanded its headphone range for 2019 with the introduction of the premium, HD610N noise cancelling wireless headphones, along with two additions to its HTX headphones range.

HD610N headphones

The HD610N is equipped with superior, adjustable noise cancelling technology, ensuring reproduction of pure sound with three modes to select from. The over-ear HD610N allows listeners to enjoy premium sound with a dynamic range, thanks to its High-Resolution Audio capability. It also supports user convenience with Google Assistant and Bluetooth compatibility, and comes in a choice of black or copper colours.

HTX headphones – HTX90N and HTX20B

Panasonic has also expanded its HTX headphone range with Bluetooth over-ear (HTX90N) and in-ear (HTX20B) headphones, which are lightweight, offer rich sound and are complete with a retro look.

HTX90N headphones

Taking their inspiration from studio monitor headphones, the HTX90N offer retro styling and modern comfort, with a lightweight frame and cushioned headband and earpads.

The HTX90N headphones are equipped with noise cancelling technology to block out a variety of everyday noise and provide the optimal listening environment. The sound-enhancing 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets ensure the delivery of rich audio. Additionally, the Acoustic Bass Control optimises the back and forth motion of the driver to produce a sharp, dynamic bass sound. The battery provides up to 24 hours of continuous wireless playback.

The headphones offer a built-in voice assistant activation function, and are available in matte black, vanilla white and indigo navy.

HTX20B headphones

Inspired by Panasonic’s HTX series, the HTX20B wireless in-ear headphones are a stylish accessory, combining retro visual appeal with modern design features – including matte-finish colour options, a chic fabric cord and earbuds shaped for secure comfort.
The ergonomic Double-hold shape fits snugly in two places, the tragus and antitragus. Incorporating a 9mm driver and neodymium magnet for clear sound and powerful, enhanced bass, the HTX20B headphones also deliver a full eight hours and 30 minutes of continuous playback on a full charge. They offer a built-in voice assistant activation function and are available in beige, red and black.
All models in Panasonic’s fashionable HTX range are compatible with Bluetooth connectivity, for greater user convenience. The HC800E-K noise cancelling headphones will be continued.

AVAILABILITY AND PRICING

MODEL	AVAILABLE	RRP
HD610N	Now	$499.95
HTX90N	Now	$299.95
HTX20B	Now	$119.95

Panasonic develops LUMIX S1H full-frame mirrorless camera with cinema-quality video and world’s first 6K/24p recording

June 3, 2019

Lumix Cameras & Lenses

Panasonic is proud to announce the development of the LUMIX S1H, a new Digital Single Lens Mirrorless camera equipped with a full-frame image sensor. It is the world’s first camera capable of video recording at 6K/24p[i] (3:2 aspect ratio), 5.9K/30p (16:9 aspect ratio), and 10-bit 60p 4K/C4K[ii].

The LUMIX S1H combines professional-level video quality with the high mobility of a mirrorless camera. A prototype will be exhibited at the “Cine Gear Expo 2019”, the premier annual event for professionals engaged in the technology, entertainment and media industry, to be held at Paramount Studios in Los Angles, U.S., through May 30 to June 2.

The camera will be available in Australia in Spring 2019. Local pricing will be announced closer to the release date.

Since the 1990s, when Panasonic first began developing video recording capabilities for digital cinema, the company has produced a host of innovative technologies for impressive cinematic imagery. These include 24p video recording, slow motion video using a variable frame rate, and the wide dynamic range and color space of V-Log/V-Gamut.

The design of the new LUMIX S1H takes advantage of this vast expertise. It packs all of these technologies, especially in the field of digital signal processing and heat dispersion, into a compact, lightweight body to achieve both high performance and nimble mobility. This new camera opens the door to creative film production in ways that conventional, bulky camera systems simply cannot do.

The key features of the new LUMIX S1H are as follows:

1. High resolution up to 6K for multiple formats

By maximising the use of the pixels in the full-frame image sensor, the LUMIX S1H, as a digital camera, has achieved 6K/24p (3:2 aspect ratio) or 5.9K/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 video recording. It accommodates a variety of recording formats, including 4:3 Anamorphic mode, to meet professional needs. Shooting in 6K enables higher-quality 4K output, and the ability to crop, pan or further stabilise in post-production while maintaining 4K resolution.

2. Rich gradation and a wide color 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 Cinema VariCam, to precisely capture everything from dark to bright areas. Subtle gradations such as skin tones are faithfully reproduced. Designed with consistent color management in mind, the S1H’s recorded footage is compatible with V-Log footage recorded by VariCam or V-Log L footage recorded by the LUMIX GH5/GH5S, enabling an easier post production workflow.

3. High product reliability that allows unlimited video recording[iii]

Panasonic has focused its expertise in heat management to deliver non-stop video in every recording mode. This makes the S1H beneficial for every type of long form video shooting, including documentaries, interviews and events.

Panasonic technology expertise

Panasonic has been working with film creators for over a quarter of a century to design and develop a number of cinema cameras, which has resulted in stunningly high video performance. The LUMIX GH1 made its debut in 2009 as the world’s first Digital Single Lens Mirrorless camera capable of full-HD AVCHD video recording.[iv] The LUMIX GH4 was launched in 2014 as the world’s first Digital Single Lens Mirrorless camera[v] capable of 4K video recording. And in 2017, the LUMIX GH5 was released with the world’s first 4K/60p, 4:2:2 10-bit 4K/30p recording capability[vi]. The LUMIX GH5 is highly acclaimed by film creators for its high performance, excellent mobility, and superb versatility in film production.

Panasonic now offers three innovative models in the LUMIX S Series of full-frame Digital Single Lens Mirrorless cameras – the S1R, the S1, and the new S1H. The LUMIX S1R is ideal for taking high-resolution pictures, the LUMIX S1 is an advanced hybrid camera for high-quality photos and videos, and the LUMIX S1H is designed and developed especially for film production. With this lineup, Panasonic is committed to meeting the demands of a broad gamut of imaging professionals.

More..

Visit the LUMIX S Series page to find out more.

Watch footage filmed on the LUMIX S1H, below:

[i] As a digital interchangeable lens system camera, as of May 31, 2019 (U.S.). Panasonic research

[ii] As a full-frame digital interchangeable lens system camera, as of May 31 May, 2019 (U.S.). Panasonic research. In Super 35mm-equivalent size. Corresponding to 4K (4096×2160) as defined by Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI).

[iii] Recording time varies depending on the battery capacity and memory card capacity. When the camera’s temperature rises above the specified operation temperature, the camera may automatically stop video recording to protect it from heat damage.

[iv] As of March 25, 2009, as a digital interchangeable lens system camera. Panasonic research.

[v] As of March 25, 2014, as a Digital Single Lens Mirrorless camera. Panasonic research.

[vi] As of January 25, 2017, as a digital interchangeable lens system camera. Panasonic research.

Panasonic releases world’s first standard zoom lens with constant F1.7 aperture: LEICA H-X1025*

June 3, 2019

Lumix Cameras & Lenses

*As a digital interchangeable lens for a mirrorless camera, as of May 31 2019

Panasonic has released the LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 10-25mm / F1.7 ASPH. (H-X1025). First previewed at Photokina, the new G Series interchangeable lens features a constant F1.7 aperture, covering the wide to standard zoom range.

The equivalent of five prime lenses in one, the H-X1025 delivers photographers the advantage of quickly moving from an ultra-wide to a medium focal length without changing lenses. The new lens will be available in Australia in August, priced at $2799 RRP.

Scott Mellish, Senior Product Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic, said:

“Professional G Series users will enjoy this highly versatile lens. It delivers excellent video and stills performance, and will be a welcome addition to their kit, providing exceptional results across a range of daily shooting requirements.”

“It will have high appeal with professionals shooting in fast-changing assignments such as weddings. The H-X1025 offers the prime lens benefit of a fast aperture in low light, combined with the versatility of a zoom lens. Videographers don’t need to stop to change lenses, so they can quickly adapt to capture great footage in different lighting scenarios from cutting the wedding cake to the best man’s speech.”

The addition of a focus clutch mechanism enables instant AF/MF switching and accurate manual focusing. This is another boon for video shooting, with the benefit of consistent and repeatable focus moves.

The LEICA H-X1025 boasts a large F1.7 aperture throughout the entire 20-50mm (35mm camera equivalent) zoom range and delivers exceptionally high optical performance. A clickless aperture ring provides smooth, seamless aperture control. Adding to its capabilities, the lens has a rugged, splash-resistant design[i], a durable metal mount, and is freeze-proof down to -10° Celsius.

The lens system comprises 17 elements in 12 groups with three aspherical lenses and four ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lenses that suppress axial and magnification chromatic aberration, as well as spherical aberration and distortion. The use of aspherical lenses and the lens system design results in a compact, lightweight lens with outstanding optical performance. The filter diameter of the lens is 77mm, and it has a nine-blade circular aperture diaphragm.

The LEICA 10-25mm lens is compatible with the LUMIX G sensor drive at 240fps to take advantage of the high-speed, high-precision auto focusing. Silent operation is achieved by the inner focus drive system, and a stepless aperture ring and the micro-step drive system in the aperture control section allow the camera to smoothly catch up to brightness changes when zooming or panning.

[i] Dust and Splash Resistant. To avoid damage when using lens under these conditions, it must be used in accordance with the associated instructions in the manual.

Panasonic to release software upgrade key for LUMIX S1 to expand video performance

June 3, 2019

Lumix Cameras & Lenses

Panasonic has announced the release of a Software Upgrade Key (DMW-SFU2) for the LUMIX S full-frame mirrorless camera. This paid software program will further expand the video performance of the LUMIX S1 for advanced video recording, allowing the user to access 14+ stops of V-Log recording

Functions available with the software upgrade are as follows:

14+ stops of V-Log recording
World’s first 4:2:2 10-bit 4K MOV 30p/25p[i] internal video recording[ii]
World’s first 4:2:2 10-bit 4K 60p/50p[iii] HDMI output[iv]
V-Log and V-Gamut compatible with Cinema VariCam Look
In-camera LUT (Look Up Table) application enabling playback of V-Log while or after recording (LUT Display with Custom Function)
A WFM (Waveform Monitor) displays brightness level while recording
High-res 48-kHz/24-bit or 96-kHz/24-bit sound can be recorded in MOV using the XLR Microphone Adaptor DMW-XLR1

The Software Upgrade Key DMW-SFU2 will be available in Australia in July 2019, priced at $299RRP.

For further information, please visit www.panasonic.com.au

[i] PAL area only

[ii] For a full-frame digital still camera as of May 31, 2019

[iii] PAL area only

[iv] For a full-frame digital still camera as of May 31, 2019

New Teleconverters for LUMIX S Series Telephoto Zoom Lenses: 1.4x Teleconverter DMW-STC14 and 2x Teleconverter DMW-STC20

June 3, 2019

Lumix Cameras & Lenses

Panasonic has introduced new 1.4x and 2x teleconverters for LUMIX S Series telephoto zoom lenses. The teleconverters can be attached to the LUMIX S PRO 70-200mm F4 O.I.S. (S-R70200)[i], converting it to a super telephoto lens with an extended zoom range of maximum 400mm, and high-speed, high-precision AF.

The teleconverters are also sealed, maintaining the integrity of this rugged dust/splash-resistant lens[ii], which is freeze-proof down to -10° Celsius.

Both teleconverters are also compatible with the upcoming 70-200mm / F2.8 S Series lens, to be introduced later in 2019. The DMW-STC14 has seven lenses including 2 UHR (Ultra High Refractive Index Lens) lenses in 4 groups, while the DMW-STC20 has eight lenses including 2 UHR lenses in 4 groups.

The new teleconverters will be available in Australia in mid-July. The DMW-STC14 is priced at $799RRP, and the DMW-STC20 is priced at $999RRP.

[i] The firmware needs to be updated to its latest version

[ii] Dust and Splash Resistant. To avoid damage when using lens under these conditions, it must be used in accordance with the associated instructions in the manual.