Good news for FX9 shooters! Sony has released the V2 firmware ahead of time. The new firmware is now available to download and includes many anticipated goodies, like 16-bit RAW (external), FF 4K 60p, 180 FPS (in 2K), and more. Scroll down for the details.
Sony FX9 Firmware 2.0: Now available for free
According to Sony, Firmware Version 2.0 brings a whole host of popular new features and functions which have been highly desired in the FX9. This upgrade expands the camera’s shooting and recording capabilities, offering cinematographers and content creators more creative options, increased usability, and more latitude in production and post. Here are Firmware V2 highlights:
Added recording format selection options
An FFcrop 5K option has been added to Rec Format >Imager Scan Mode in the Project menu. When Imager Scan Mode is set to FF 6K, FFcrop 5K, or S35 4K, Video Format can now be set to 4096×2160. A “24” option has been added to Rec Format >Frequency in the Project menu. The Video Format setting of 4096×2160 is supported only when Imager Scan Mode is set to FF 6K, FFcrop 5K, or S35 4K.
User 3D LUT support
A CUBE file (*.cube) for a 17-point or 33-point 3D LUT created using RAW Viewer or DaVinci Resolve can now be loaded.
Expansion of ISO/Gain configurable range
The configurable range for ISO and Gain when Base Setting >Shooting Mode in the Project menu is set to SDR or HDR has been expanded. When the gain setting mode is set to ISO, values up to the maximum ISO 102400 can be configured. When the gain setting mode is set to dB, values up to 27dB can be configured.
16-bit RAW output
The RAW video signal can be output from the RAW OUT connector of an XDCA-FX9 (option) attached to the camcorder.
High Dynamic Range (HDR)
Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) is supported to enable shooting with expanded dynamic range. The two following types of HLG are available:
- Natural: Characteristic conforming to ITU-R, BT.2100(HLG).
- Live: Characteristic conforming to ITU-R. BT.2100(HLG) that delivers improved HDR performance.
When HDR is selected, the color space is expanded to ITU-R BT.2020 equivalent.
AF function improvements
Focusing is now supported not just for face detection but also for using detection of people’s eyes. When Focus Area is set to Flexible Spot or Zone, the focus area frame can now be moved using touch operation. AF transition speed and AF subject shift sensitivity can now be assigned to assignable buttons. In Cine EI mode, face/eye detection AF performance has been improved for when Gamma is set to S-Log3.
High frame rates options
150fps and 180fps options have been added for the frame rate when Rec Format >Imager Scan Mode in the Project menu is set to FF 2K.
More options
Click this link for the complete list of V2 firmware. The firmware V2 can be downloaded from this link. Note that this is a free upgrade.
FX9 firmware roadmap: V3
According to Sony, the Ver.3.0 upgrade will include below key features:
- S700PTP Remote Protocol
- Center Scan mode for Super 16mm lens
- B4 Lens support when using an adaptor
Further information and schedule will be updated later.
FX9 latest news & future updates: Educational session
A few days ago, Sony has released its educational session that focuses on the latest news and future updates regarding the FX9. The session is a part of Sony’s Rewrite the Future project which is a web series organized by Sony Professional that concentrates on education regarding solutions in many aspects of filmmaking (Read our article to learn more: Sony Announces the Development of FX6: Full Frame 4K Cinema Camera). In the FX9 session, Alvaro Ortiz and Jin Koide, Connected Content Acquisition Specialists at Sony Professional, share the latest updates to the FX9 as well as giving a view into the future roadmap for the camcorder.
Watch the session in the YT video below:
We’ll keep you posted on more news and updates regarding Sony’s cinema solutions, so stay tuned.
