Panasonic surprises with the new Lumix BGH1, a Box-Style camera with 4K 60p/50p capture and a wide dynamic range

The new camera integrates a 10.2 megapixel Live MOS sensor with Dual Native ISO and Venus Engine allowing internal 4:2:0 video recording at 10 bits.

Building on the popular GH5S, Panasonic surprises with the launch of the first Lumix mirrorless digital box-style camera, the DC-BGH1.

With System Standard Micro Four Thirds, the new Lumix BGH1 takes advantage of high mobility, an extensive catalog of interchangeable lenses and brings together all the experience that Panasonic has acquired through the development of professional cinema cameras, camcorders and the Lumix GH series.

In a context of growing opportunities for the streaming sector, Panasonic now proposes a camera that is easy to install and has great expansion capacity that allows multi-camera control. Provides a versatile use for live streaming, from drones and many more options.

The new camera integrates a 10.2 megapixel Live MOS sensor con Dual Native ISO y Venus Engine. Dual Native ISO is a technology that links two separate native ISO circuits, used in Panasonic Varicam models for professionals.

Typically, noise increases along with sensitivity on sensor cameras with a single native ISO circuit. However, sensors with Dual Native ISO minimize noise generation by choosing an optimal circuit to use based on sensitivity before signal gain processing. As a result, it enables high-sensitivity recording of maximum ISO 51200.

This new camera allows a internal video recording 4:2:0 10 bit C4K/4K 60p/50p. The camera records video with a gamma curve compatible with ITU-R BT.2100, and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) can be chosen in Photo Style profiles. A C4K/4K HEVC/H.265 low bitrate recording mode is also available for HLG.

Thinking about cinematographic applications, the BGH1 allows you to work with up to 13 stops of dynamic range thus expanding the creative horizon in high and low lights.

It is also capable of obtaining 4K 4:2:2 10-bit output via HDMI. VFR (Variable Frame Rate) allows users to record slow motion or fast motion video in C4K/4K (maximum 60 fps, maximum 2.5x slower in 24p) and FHD (240 fps, maximum 10x slower in 24p) . The minimum frame rate for fast motion is 2 fps.

This new camera also incorporates a advanced learning technology that detects specific subjects, both humans and animals, that move quickly, including felines and birds. Regarding people, in addition to the eyes, face and body, it also individually recognizes the head through detection technology, thus providing even more precise focus. The camera follows the subject, even if they are moving quickly, turning their back to the camera, tilting their head, or walking away.

External Device Support

The new Lumix BGH1 has adopted a new heat dispersion structure to get unlimited video recording. The body frame is composed of aluminum and magnesium alloy to offer exceptional durability and lightness.

This Box-camera is very compact and light and its power over ethernet (PoE+) allows easy installation both physically and electrically.

Control over up to 12 Lumix BGH1 cameras is available using the Lumix PC software. Panasonic Lumix Tether for Multicam. With a future firmware update, the camera will support wired IP streaming (RTP/RTSP).

In addition to a USB 3.1 Type-C, the camera is also equipped with a 3G-SDI and an HDMI Type-A terminal; both can be used for simultaneous output. The functions GenLock IN y Time Code IN/OUT, which allow a multi-camera video recording, are available to create a scalable system with external monitors, rigs and gimbals supplied by other manufacturers.

It is also equipped with a double slot for SD memory cards for continuous or backup recording.

Main features

• 10.2 megapixel Live MOS sensor
• Dual Native ISO and Venus Engine
• Internal video recording 4:2:0 10-bit C4K/4K 60p/50p
• Gamma curve compatible with ITU-R BT.2100
• Possibility of working in Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG)
• Compatible with anamorphic lenses (4:3).
• Indicator light (1 front and 1 rear), and a network light.
• Φ3.5 Audio jack (input/output) compatible with XLR microphone.
• DMW-XLR1 (sold separately).
• φ2.5mm remote control unit.
• 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 (BLE) connectivity.
• The accessories consist of a band with cable lock, an adapter and a power cable.
• Remote camera control using LUMIX Tether for Multicam and LUMIX Sync software.
• Toma de fotos tethered con LUMIX Tether for Multicam.
• An SDK (Software Development Kit) will be provided for free to control the camera via USB.

Other articles on Panasonic