Whether you're shooting documentaries, events, reality TV, education, or corporate productions, the Sony FX9 Cinema Camera has you covered with its powerful and flexible 4K interchangeable lens camera system.
Realise beautiful 4K imagery with the creative freedom made possible by oversampling a huge high-resolution full-frame sensor. Capture every detail from the scene with shallow depth of field and stunning bokeh with a truly cinematic look. 15+ stops of dynamic range and Dual Base ISO enable capture of every nuance, from subtle shadow detail to specular highlights and with an immaculate colour palette.
Make sure your story’s always clear with enhanced Fast Hybrid AF that tracks your subject with unprecedented speed, smoothness and precision. Its impact is transformative for premium documentary, commercials and event applications. Your ability to precisely capture your subject’s expression is further enhanced with Sony’s unique Eye AF* and Real-time Tracking**.
The PXW-FX9 input and output features include 12G/6G-SDI and HDMI outputs for 4K video, a 3G-SDI output for HD, and genlock and timecode when using a multicamera setup. The Fast Hybrid AF autofocus system allows for accurate focus and even allows facial detection to automatically detect human form with 561 points of detection. Advanced image stabilization is achieved using the PXW-FX9's internal gyroscope for shots so smooth it'll look like you used a gimbal. Its 4-channel audio recording allows you to use external microphones and record ambient sound with the internal mics simultaneously.
The camera features a 15-stop dynamic range, supports dynamic HDR, hybrid log gamma mode (HLG), and records 10-bit 4:2:2 to dual XQD media card slots that support simultaneous and relay recording, as well as multiple backup recording modes that utilize proxy files. The camera can record UHD (3840 x 2160) and HD (1920 x 1080) internally at a selectable frame rate from 1 fps up to 60 fps in XAVC-I, XAVC-Long, and MPEG HD formats. Its 7-stop electronic variable ND filter can perform in auto or manual mode, smoothly adjusting from 1/4 to 1/128 density. The camera's default S-Cinetone colour look offers the same soft, vivid tone as with Sony's VENICE camera.
In addition to its wide dynamic range, its enhanced colour and light features include a dual base ISO of 800/4000 with a maximum ISO up to 102,400, which is helpful when in low-light situations or using a slower lens. Other improvements with the latest firmware include improved white balancing in sunlight with a more natural look, user-created 3D LUTs, improved AF, audio improvements, USB tethering, T-value metadata, password enhancements, and an S35 2K imager scan mode.
*Ver2.0 Firmware is required.
** Ver3.0 Firmware is required.
The back-illuminated full-frame 6K CMOS sensor uses Sony’s Exmor R technology for improved sensitivity and reduced noise. When recording at DCI 4K*, Ultra HD resolutions the ability to oversample and capture at 6K, combined with powerful image processing, ensures that subtle details and textures beyond those that can be captured by a conventional 4K sensor are retained while at the same time noise is reduced.
Compared to a 4K Super 35mm sensor, the FX9’s 6K sensor has over twice the surface area, providing a wider angle of view, making it easier to gain a shallower depth of field. You can also shoot with Super 35mm lenses without compromise, capturing at 4K in super 35mm with all the benefits of this advanced imaging sensor.
*DCI 4K (4096 x 2160 at 17:9 recording) requires Ver.2.0 or higher firmware.
Phenomenal 15+ stops dynamic range for limitless expression
FX9 offers an exceptional 15+ stops of dynamic range – allowing for unprecedented creative freedom in colour grading and post. Camera operators can concentrate on framing the scene they want while relying upon the FX9 to capture every nuance and detail using either 4K 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording or 16-bit RAW external recording.* In grading, colourists can find colour and detail beyond the normal viewing abilities of the camera operator to create a final image that exactly portrays the mood of the scene.
* RAW recording requires Ver.2.0 or higher firmware, XDCA-FX9 and external recorder.
Dual Base ISO for stunning images in any light
Digital imaging sensors perform best at their base ISO as no unnecessary gain (voltage) is added to the sensors output. While a typical camera has a single base ISO, carefully chosen to provide the optimum settings for a wide range of shooting scenarios, the FX9’s dual ISO function offers far greater flexibility. Its low base sensitivity of ISO 800* is similar to most other digital cinema cameras offering an excellent balance between dynamic range and sensitivity for most normal types of production. The FX9 with its secondary High Base ISO of 4000* excels in low light conditions without adding extra gain. Low light scenes can be shot using High Base and 4000 ISO with near identical image quality to Low Base and 800 ISO. Combining Dual Base ISO with the camera’s electronic variable ND Filter provides superb creative control in almost any shooting environment, with truly next generation responsiveness to changing conditions.
*ISO 800 and ISO 4000 are used in S-Log3, Cine EI mode.
Cinematic colour science with S-Cinetone™
S-Cinetone is the default look of FX9 that’s tuned to meet the requirements of today’s content creators with rich mid-range colours, alluring facial tones and a softer tonal look – developed with the same expertise as Sony’s world-leading VENICE digital cinematography camera. S-Cinetone means that straight out of the camera your content looks fresh and vivid, with subjects that really stand out while retaining plenty of latitude in post production thanks to the high performance full-frame image sensor.
16-bit RAW capability*
16-bit RAW offers a phenomenal increase in post-production creative freedom to fully exploit FX9’s exceptional 15+ stops of dynamic range. FX9 supports export of 16-bit RAW at either 4K or 2K resolution using the optional XDCA-FX9 extension unit with a single BNC cable connection to compatible external RAW recorders.**
*RAW output will be enabled with Ver.2.0 or higher firmware.
**Compatible recorders to be announced by 3rd party.
User Created 3D LUTs make it easy to customise FX9’s look to your preferences. It is possible to import LUTs files from an SD card and store up to 16 files on the FX9’s internal memory and switch between them as needed. This is particularly useful for shooting in S-Log3, allowing you to preview on camera whatever custom look you create.
FX9 can record HDR using S-Log3 or Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG)*.
*Ver.2.0 or higher firmware required
When shooting HDR content, the FX9’s EVF is easily switched between HDR and SDR emulation modes. In addition, if you adjust the brightness of the image when in SDR emulation, the SDR gain dB is recorded into metadata so it can be used in post-production for the SDR content. Together these changes make it easier to shoot in HDR while also achieving a quick turnaround for SDR content.
*Requires firmware V3.0 or higher.
Choose your desired frame-rate from 1fps up to 180fps* for impressive quick and slow motion footage. FX9 creates an immersive image with a wide-angle look and shallower depth of field provided by its full-frame sensor in combination with quick and slow motion. Engage your audience with this new creative look. FX9 also offers a Quality priority setting** that maximizes full HD image quality using full-frame 6K scan mode or Super 35 4K scan mode with advanced oversampling technology. With Ver.3 firmware, FX9 also supports Super 16 scan mode*** and enables B4 lens control (requires optional LA-EB1 and XDCA-FX9 for lens DC supply) with ALAC****(Auto Lens Aberration Compensation). Imager scan area can be switched with Assign button that works like a digital extender.
Super 35 2K imager scan mode prioritizes frame rates, so image quality may be reduced depending on the shooting environment. In this instance, below settings are recommended.
*Up to 120fps with Ver1.0. Full-HD 180fps requires Ver.2.0 or higher firmware.
**In full-frame scanning mode: selectable at 1–30fps/in super 35 scanning mode: selectable at 1–60fps. Quality priority setting is recommended if desired framerate is available.
*** Requires V3 or higher, AF performance at S16 2K mode is not same as other imager mode
**** Lens should support ALAC function.
Effortlessly track fast moving subjects with pin-sharp focus, even when using wide lens aperture settings to maintain a shallow depth of field with the camera’s full-frame sensor. Developed by Sony’s α camera engineers, enhanced Fast Hybrid AF combines phase detection AF for fast, accurate subject tracking with contrast AF for exceptional focus accuracy. In addition, Face Detection intelligently recognises and locks on to human faces.
561-point phase detection AF
The dedicated 561-point phase detection AF sensor covers approximately 94% of the whole image area width and 96% of height, allowing consistently accurate, responsive AF tracking, even with fast-moving subjects.
Customisable AF settings
FX9’s comprehensive autofocus settings provide the creative flexibility to integrate with any project.
FX9 is the world’s first professional camcorder with Sony’s world-leading eye tracking technology**. High speed, high precision image processing maintains a pin-sharp focus. During an interview or portraiture shoot, you can rely upon Eye AF to capture your subject’s most subtle expressions while you concentrate on the interview and framing. Simply turn on Face or Eye AF priority for seamless AI-based tracking.
Using Real-time Tracking you can simply touch a subject on the viewfinder, or select a face with FX9 joystick, and the camera will track and maintain focus automatically.
*Eye AF requires Ver.2.0 or higher firmware. Real-time Tracking requires Ver.3.0 or higher firmware.
**As of Apr 2020.
Realise even greater creative control with Sony’s unique built-in electronic variable neutral density (ND) filter – a world first* for professional full-frame camcorders. Set to Auto, or adjust filter density manually in smooth increments from 1/4 to 1/128 as you shoot, for perfectly exposed images without affecting depth of field as lighting conditions change. Use higher density settings with a slower shutter speed for breathtaking artistic effects.
*As of September 2019
Sony’s Electronic Variable ND Filter can be seamlessly varied while shooting because of its innovative technology, which is completely unlike conventional technology such as a rotating filter wheel or polarising ND Filters. It is also critical to note, Sony’s technology is optically based rather than using image processing.
FX9 chassis is the latest refinement of the revolutionary FS7 design, so you can be sure it will feel great to shoot with from almost any position, while also offering compatibility with a large proportion of the countless FS7 accessories including U-series batteries, chargers, E-mount lenses, plus arms and lens adapters.*
The control arm is easily adjusted without tools, so FX9 adapts effortlessly to your physique and preferred shooting style – handheld, at waist level or shoulder mounted. The smart grip also features an updated design, more compact than before while still holding all the key shooting controls, allowing you to concentrate on the scene without distractions. FX9 also introduces a micro USB interface for improved responsiveness and support for a wrist strap.
To withstand the rigors of real-world shooting, FX9 has a robust magnesium chassis which is almost one third lighter than aluminum equivalent, while offering high impact resistance. FX9’s buttons, dials and other parts are sealed to prevent dust and water spray from entering for even greater operational reliability.**
Sony’s flexible Multi-Interface (MI) Shoe provides power, signal connections and coordinated on/off switching with compatible Sony accessories. For example, you can connect and control Sony UWP-D wireless microphone systems (optional).
*BP-U30 and XDCA-FS7 are not compatible with the FX9.
**Dust and water resistance does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this camera is subjected to direct contact with dust and water.
The FX9’s LCD Viewfinder has a quick access control menu for commonly accessed features. With a single touch, you can press to change key settings including:
Introduced with V2 firmware, the FX9’s quick access control menu uses a similar UI to Sony’s acclaimed VENICE digital cinematography camera.
*Requires Ver.2.0 or higher firmware.
FX9 offers superb audio capabilities with independent control dials for each channel. In applications such as interview, 4-channel audio recording enables simultaneous use of an external microphone for recording ambient sounds, the built-in microphone for voice memos by the operator, and two optional UWP Series wireless microphones for voice of interviewer and interviewee. In addition, using the optional XLR-K3M, XLR-K2M or XLR-K1M XLR adapter – with two extra XLR inputs – allows even more devices to be connected.
The FX9 features internal 5GHz* and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi capability as standard. Just switch on and log onto your preferred network to enable a host of advanced wireless production features:
* 5GHz support dependent on country/regional regulation. Only PXW-FX9V/9VK support 5GHz.
** Content Browser Mobile™ application can be downloaded from Google Play Store or App Store. Wi-Fi operation cannot be guaranteed with all smartphones and tablet computers.
*** Requires Ver.3.0 or higher firmware. C3 Portal is available in specific countries.
PXW-FX9 supports S700 Protocol over Ethernet* for simple, easy-to-operate multi-camera operation for local events and TV studio production. The optional XDCA-FX9 Extension Unit with RJ45 jack can take S700 Protocol control via Ethernet from a single RCP** unit or you can control multiple FX9s with a PoE Switch using one RCP per FX9. A/V output over SDI can be routed via a standard SDI switcher and a monitor such as the PVM-X2400 can display up to four HD inputs simultaneously.
*V3 or higher firmware required.
**Availability depends on region.
Mass | Approx 2.0 kg (body only) Approx. 4.8 kg (with Viewfinder, Eyepiece, Grip Remote Control, BP-U35 battery, SELP28135G LENS, an XQD memory card, Handle, MIC holder) |
---|---|
Dimensions (W x H x D) | 146 x 142.5 x 229 mm (body without protrusions) |
Power Requirements | DC 19.5V |
Power Consumption | Approx. 35.2 W (while recording XAVC-I QFHD 59.94p, SELP28135G Lens, Viewfinder ON, not using external device) |
Operating Temperature | 0°C to 40°C 32°F to 104°F |
Storage Temperature | -20°C to +60°C -4°F to +140°F |
Battery Operating Time | Approx. 54min. with BP-U35 battery (while recording XAVC-I QFHD 59.94p, SELP28135G Lens, Viewfinder ON, not using external device) Approx. 108min. with BP-U70 battery (while recording XAVC-I QFHD 59.94p, SELP28135G Lens, Viewfinder ON, not using external device) |
Recording Format (Video) [XAVC Intra] |
XAVC-I DCI4K 59.94p mode: VBR, MAX bit rate 600 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 |
XAVC-I DCI4K 50p mode: VBR, MAX bit rate 500 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I DCI4K 29.97p mode: VBR, MAX bit rate 300 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I DCI4K 25p mode: VBR, MAX bit rate 250 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I DCI4K 24p mode: VBR, MAX bit rate 240 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I DCI4K 23.98p mode: VBR, MAX bit rate 240 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I QFHD 59.94p mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 600 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I QFHD 50p mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 500 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I QFHD 29.97p mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 300 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I QFHD 25p mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 250 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I QFHD 23.98p mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 240 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I HD 59.94p mode:CBG, MAX bit rate 222 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I HD 50p mode:CBG, MAX bit rate 223 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I HD 59.94i/29.97p mode:CBG, MAX bit rate 111 Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I HD 50i/25p mode:CBG, MAX bit rate 112Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
XAVC-I HD 23.98p mode:CBG, MAX bit rate 89Mbps, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 | |
Recording Format (Video) [XAVC Long] |
XAVC-L QFHD 29.97p/25p/23.98p mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 100 Mbps, MPEG-4 H.264/AVC |
XAVC-L QFHD 59.94p/50p mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 150 Mbps, MPEG-4 H.264/AVC | |
XAVC-L HD 59.94i/29.97p/50i/25p/23.98p/59.94p/50p mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 50 Mbps, MPEG-4 H.264/AVC | |
XAVC-L HD 59.94i/29.97p/50i/25p/23.98p/59.94p/50p mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 35 Mbps, MPEG-4 H.264/AVC | |
XAVC-L HD 59.94i/50i mode:VBR, MAX bit rate 25 Mbps, MPEG-4 H.264/AVC | |
Recording Format (Video) [MPEG-2 Long GOP] |
MPEG2 HD422 mode:CBR, MAX bit rate 50 Mbps, MPEG-2 422P@HL |
Recording Format (Audio) | LPCM 24 bits, 48 kHz, 4 channels |
Recording Frame Rate | [XAVC Intra] XAVC-I DCI4K mode: 4096 x 2160/59.94P, 50P, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P, 24P XAVC-I QFHD mode: 3840 x 2160/59.94P, 50P, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P XAVC-I HD mode: 1920 x 1080/59.94P, 59.94i, 50P, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P [XAVC Long] XAVC-L QFHD mode: 3840 x 2160/59.94P, 50P, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P XAVC-L HD 50 mode: 1920 x 1080/59.94P, 50P, 59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P XAVC-L HD 35 mode:1920 x 1080/59.94P, 50P, 59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P XAVC-L HD 25 mode:1920 x 1080/59.94i, 50i [MPEG-2 Long GOP] MPEG HD422 mode: 1920 x 1080/59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P |
Recording/Playback Time [XAVC Intra] |
XAVC-I DCI4K/QFHD 59.94p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 22 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 10 minutes XAVC-I DCI4K/QFHD 50p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 26 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 13 minutes XAVC-I DCI4K/QFHD 29.97p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 43 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 21 Minutes XAVC-I DCI4K/QFHD 25p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 52 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 25 Minutes XAVC-I DCI4K 24p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 54 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 26 Minutes XAVC-I DCI4K/QFHD 23.98p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 54 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 26 Minutes XAVC-I HD 59.94p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 57 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 28 Minutes XAVC-I HD 50p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 57 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 27 Minutes XAVC-I HD 59.94i/29.97p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 105 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 53 Minutes XAVC-I HD 50i/25p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 105 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 53 Minutes XAVC-I HD 23.98p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 130 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 65 Minutes |
Recording/Playback Time [XAVC Long] |
XAVC-L QFHD 29.97p/25p/23.98p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 125 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 62 Minutes XAVC-L QFHD 59.94p/50p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 86 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 42 Minutes XAVC-L HD 50 59.94i/29.97p/50i/25p/23.98p/59.94p/50p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 225 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 110 Minutes XAVC-L HD 35 59.94i/29.97p/50i/25p/23.98p/59.94p/50p When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 305 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 150 Minutes XAVC-L HD 25 59.94i/50i When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 410 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB) Approx. 200 Minutes |
Recording/Playback Time [MPEG-2 Long GOP] |
MPEG HD422 59.94i, 50i, 29.97P, 23.98P, 25P When using QD-G128A (128 GB): Approx. 220 minutes When using QD-G64A (64 GB): Approx. 105 Minutes |
Recording Format (Proxy Audio) | XAVC Proxy: AAC-LC, 128 kbps, 2 channels |
Recording Format (Proxy Video) | XAVC Proxy: AVC/H.264 Main Profile 4:2:0 Long GOP, VBR 1920 x 1080, 9Mbps 1280 x 720, 9Mbps 1280 x 720, 6Mbps 640 x 360, 3Mbps |