With 4K recording available on many smartphones and 4K resolution pretty much a standard specification on TV sets, it looks like the industry is now pushing to move into 8K territory faster.
Sharp's contribution comes in the shape of the new 8C-B60A 8K camcorder which is aimed at broadcasters and will undoubtedly be deployed at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The camera comes with a Super 35mm sensor that's approximately the same size as the one on the Red Helium Weapon 8K and is capable of recording 10-bit 60 fps footage. Grass Valley's HQX codec helps keeping file sizes at a manageable level but the camera comes with a custom 2TB SSD pack that was developed in collaboration with Astrodesign and can hold approximately 40 minutes of 8K video.
A PL lens mount can take Zeiss and Leica lenses among others, which should give filmmakers plenty of options for creating a specific look and make the camera an option far beyond the fields of news and sports.
In addition, the 8C-B60A comes with a number of features aimed at broadcast users, such as an integrated top-handle and viewfinder, as well as simultaneous recording and output and a shoulder pad.
All those features don't come cheap, though. With a price tag of $77,000 the 8C-B60A will be out of reach for enthusiasts and prosumers but it will help big broadcasters and producers drive 8K and help manufacturers, such as Sharp, push the sales figures for 8K displays.
2017-11-10 17:54
