Archive - July 2020

Panasonic releases Firmware Version 2.1 for LUMIX S1H: Supporting RAW Video Data Output over HDMI

Panasonic has today released its LUMIX S1H firmware update Version 2.1, supporting RAW video data output over HDMI. Cinematographers and filmmakers are increasingly demanding RAW due to the powerful advantages it provides for editing and grading.

Working together with Atomos, a global company that creates video equipment for professional film creators, the new firmware enables the output of maximum 5.9K/29.9p and 59.94p 4K[i] RAW video data over HDMI to save it as Apple ProRes RAW on the Atomos Ninja V 4K HDR monitor-recorder. In addition, the update also offers Super 35mm Anamorphic 4:3 in 3.5K resolution which is a standard for filmmakers in production.

The free firmware is available now at the LUMIX Global Customer Support website: https://av.jpn.support.panasonic.com/support/global/cs/dsc/

James Choi, Product Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic, explained: “ProRes RAW is an efficient and highly flexible compressed RAW video format that provides amazing image quality for the filmmaker without introducing additional stress to workflow. For the creative professional, this ensures that data requirements and costs are manageable. Coupled with the S1H, this offers powerful performance, with the camera providing unlimited shooting in environmental conditions up to 40 degrees Celsius.”

LUMIX S1H Firmware Version 2.1

RAW video data output over HDMI

・[5.9K] / [4K] / [Anamorphic (4:3) 3.5K] 12-bit RAW video data can be output over HDMI.

Apple ProRes RAW can be recorded on Atomos Ninja V.[ii]

AreaResolutionFrame RateAspectHDMI Output
Full Frame5.9K (5888x3312)29.97p/25p/23.98p16:912-bit
Super 35mm4K (4128x2176)59.94p/50p/29.97p/25p/23.98p17:912-bit
Super 35mm Anamorphic3.5K (3536x2656)50p/29.97p/25p/23.98p4:312-bit

・V-Log or Rec.709 is selectable on Live View monitor during RAW output.

・Shooting assist functions including WFM (Wave Form Monitor), Vector Scope, Luminance Spot Meter, Zebra Pattern can be used during RAW output.

・A LUT (Lookup table) exclusively designed for RAW video recorded on NINJA V is available on the following customer support website to achieve the same color grading as V-Log/V-Gamut[i]. It is easy to match colors between footage recorded with Panasonic Varicam, EVA1 and LUMIX GH5 series cameras in order to combine them. https://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/download/lut/s1h_raw_lut/index.html

[i] Software that supports Apple ProRes RAW is required to edit RAW video recorded with NINJA V.

[i] 4128×2176(17:9), announced as “C4K” at IBC2019. Corresponding to C4K (4096×2160) as defined by Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI).

[ii] Selectable recording mode depends on the version of ATOMOS NINJA V.

All functions may not be available depending on the situation.

New Panasonic Earphone and Headphone lineup creates next level entertainment

Panasonic is rolling out a range of new earphones and headphones designed for an exciting and immersive entertainment experience – anytime, anywhere.

The stylish and compact new RZ-S500W and RZ-S300W wireless earphones deliver exceptional noise cancelling and wireless freedom with stable Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, ensuring uninterrupted sound and excellent voice quality for seamless and clear phone conversations.

Panasonic’s latest wireless headphones – the RB-M700B, RB-M500B, and RB-M300B – have enhanced bass performance, delivering an audio experience of full immersion in bottom-heavy tracks, wherever you go.

Aaron Waters, Product Marketing Manager – Audio and Video, Panasonic Australia, said: “Our latest range of wireless earphones and headphones combines premium sound, fit and functionality – perfect for Aussies wanting to tune-in on the go. With excellent noise cancellation, powerful bass and superior connectivity, listeners can get immersed in their music, physically feel the beats and enjoy being in the zone – no matter where they are.  This wireless range offers the freedom of listening to incredible sound at a click of a button and I believe our customers will love the convenience and performance combined.”

Model NumberColoursRRPRelease Date
RZ-S500WBlack & White$349.00Available now
RZ-S300WBlack, White and Green$249.00Available now
RB-M700BBlack and Beige$349.00Available now
RB-M500BBlack and Beige$269.00Available now
RB-M300BBlack and Beige$229.00Available now

RZ-S500W and RZ-S300W Wireless Earphones

With Panasonic’s two new true wireless earphones, the RZ-S500W and RZ-S300W, on-the-go smartphone users can enjoy listening to music, watching videos, playing games and talking on the phone –  with superior sound that enhances each experience and convenient, seamless connectivity which doesn’t fail.

Dual Hybrid Noise Cancelling Technology (RZ-S500W only)

The RZ-S500W employs two systems to deliver an impressive noise cancelling effect that allows listeners to fully engage with their music.

With Dual Hybrid Noise Cancelling, two microphones in each earphone provide effective Feedforward Noise Cancelling (FF-NC) and Feedback Noise Cancelling (FB-NC) to combat noise from outside and inside the ear, respectively. Digital and analogue processing of the captured noise ensures rich, distraction-free rendition of your favourite tracks – perfect for commuting and tuning out background noise.

Stable Connection and Design Comfort

Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity delivers an uninterrupted listening experience, even in high-traffic areas, to ensure important phone calls are received loud and clear, and favourite songs never miss a beat. Panasonic’s integrated Bluetooth antenna and touch sensor design provide a reliable connection, while ensuring the earphones are both compact and comfortable. In addition, the independent right/left channel signalling system maintains sound balance, allowing users to enjoy immersive content in any environment, regardless of the smartphone or operating system (OS).

Excellent Call Sound Quality

Three high-performance Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) microphones in each earpiece further contribute to the earphones’ noise cancelling performance. The microphones, combined with a unique labyrinth structure, suppress wind noise and other interference for clear, natural call quality.

Ambient Sound Mode

The touch sensor allows users to switch between Ambient Sound mode, Noise Cancelling mode and Off with the tap of a finger, further enhancing the listening experience.

IPX4 Splash-proof Compact and Lightweight Design

Expertly crafted to fit comfortably in the ear, the earphones’ rounded, compact and lightweight design offers users a comfortable listening experience. In addition, they are splash-proof[i] equivalent to IPX4.

Panasonic Audio Connect App

Compatibility with the free Panasonic Audio Connect[ii] app means the earphones can be completely customised via your smartphone. Monitor balance levels, fine-tune your noise cancelling level and configure pre-set sound modes to suit your favourite type of music and listening preferences.

RB-M700B, RB-M500B and RB-M300B wireless headphones

XBS DEEP Delivers Premium Bass That Moves

Equipped with Panasonic’s bass playback technology “XBS DEEP[iii] (Extra Bass System Deep)”, the headphones are built for enjoying low frequency music with thumping bass vibrations that you can actually feel.

A Free-Edge Driver System uses a highly elastic nanofiber diaphragm to generate impressive bass with maximum precision and minimum distortion.

The RB-MB700B also offers Active Noise Cancelling, providing the freedom of blocking out all distractions for total immersion.

Experience Concert-Quality Bass Sound (RB-M700B, RB-M500B)

Further improving the bass performance is the built-in Bass Reactor which amplifies low frequencies with actual vibration in response to the track’s bass sounds. The Bass Reactor simulates deep, booming bass, like that in a night club, by transmitting amplified low-end sound directly to the ears as real low-frequency vibrations.

Bass-blow Port

The headphones’ structure further contributes to the bass performance with optimal positioning of the air outflow port in the cabinet, allowing the diaphragm’s precise piston movement to crisply reproduce low-end frequency outlines.

Designed for Comfort and Long-Term Wear

The headphones are designed for comfortable, long-term wear, with Side Pressure Dispersion Technology which evenly spreads pressure around your ears. This ergonomic design delivers all-day comfort, making the headphones perfect for long commutes or gaming sessions.

[i] Only the earphones are compatible with IPX4. It does not include the charging cradle.

[ii] Compatible with smartphones and tablets that are equipped with Android™ 6.0 or higher and supports Google Play™, or an iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch equipped with iOS9.3 or higher.

[iii] XBS DEEP (Extra Bass System Deep) is a fusion of three technologies: Harmonic Tuning EQ, Free-Edge Driver System, and Bass-Blow Port.

TRADEMARK NOTICE:

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Panasonic Corporation is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

 

Panasonic announces firmware update programs for LUMIX G Series Cameras

Panasonic has announced the release of firmware update programs for the LUMIX G Series of Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Cameras; the software program “LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta)” for Mac; and the development of “LUMIX Webcam Software” for Windows and Mac.

The firmware updates for the LUMIX GH5, GH5S, G9, G95, G85 and GX9 will improve both compatibility with the new Tripod Grip DMW-SHGR1 and operational stability with the LUMIX G VARIO 12-32mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. /MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS12032) lens.

Meanwhile, “LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta)” and “LUMIX Webcam Software” boost user convenience as streaming opportunities grow. While “LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta)” supports tethered shooting and the capture of camera views for live streaming, the upcoming “LUMIX Webcam Software” makes it possible to use selected LUMIX cameras as webcams over a USB connection for both live streaming and video conferencing.

  • “LUMIX Webcam Software” will be available for Windows at the end of September 2020, and for Mac at the end of October 2020.

1. Firmware update programs for LUMIX GH5, GH5S, G9, G95, G85 and GX9

Model Firmware VersionTripod grip DMW-SHGR1 can be usedImproved operational stability with the Panasonic LUMIX G VARIO 12-32mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS12032)
GH5 Firmware Version 2.7YesYes
GH5S Firmware Version 1.6Yes-
G9 Firmware Version 2.2YesYes
G95 Firmware Version 1.2YesYes
G85 Firmware Version 1.5YesYes
GX9 Firmware Version 1.5-Yes

2. LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta) for Mac

Following the release of “LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta)” for Windows, “LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta)” for Mac has also been released – based on “LUMIX Tether (Ver.1.7)” with an additional display option for instances where this software is used for live streaming.

As “LUMIX Tether” is a software program originally designed for tethered shooting, Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) such as a focus area mark, as well as control panels, are displayed with live view images on a monitor during USB tethering. However, these graphic items become a hindrance when the software is used to capture a camera view for live streaming. In response to customer requests, LIVE VIEW mode has been added on “LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta)”. It enables display of the camera view only, making it easy for separate streaming software to read it. Users can choose to show or hide these graphic items during USB tethering according to their requirements.

“LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta)” for Mac is provided as a pre-release version that is currently still under development. Please note that this software is not eligible for operation warranty and customer support. Compatible LUMIX models are: GH5, G9, GH5S, S1, S1R, S1H.

LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta) for Mac Operating Environment

OSMac OS X 10.11, Mac macOS 10.12, macOS 10.13, macOS 10.14*
CPUIntel CPU of 1 GHz or higher
Display1024 x 768 pixels or more
RAM1024 x 768 pixels or more
HDDFree space of 200 MB or more for installation
InterfaceUSB 3.0/3.1
*Operation with macOS 10.15 Catalina is under verification but some issues are reported. https://av.jpn.support.panasonic.com/support/global/cs/dsc/info/macos_tether.html
(When to officially support macOS 10.15 Catalina is yet to be fixed.)

3. LUMIX Webcam Software

The upcoming “LUMIX Webcam Software” will be compatible with the following LUMIX models:
S1H, S1R, S1, GH5S, GH5, G9, G100.*

Release Date*: End of September 2020 for Windows and end of October 2020 for Mac.

*The release date of LUMIX Webcam Software for G100 is yet to be decided.

Panasonic is committed to continuous improvement of its LUMIX product line, including the Full-Frame S Series and the Micro Four Thirds G Series, by providing customers with value-added products and services, including these firmware and software update programs.