Panasonic AG-HPX372E

The Panasonic AG-HPX370 Series P2 HD Camcorder is an affordable 1/3"

ENG camcorder that offers full-raster 4:2:2 sampling using the professional

AVC-Intra HD codec. Equally at home recording 100Mbps DVCPRO HD, the AG-HPX370

brings new levels of lowlight performance to its three 1/3" CMOS sensors,

utilizing Ultra Luminance Technology to provide the sensitivity and image

quality of larger 1/2" imagers.

With two HD/SD-SDI outputs, two P2 media

slots, a 17x Fujinon HD lens, and one SD memory card slot (for scene files and

user settings), the AG-HPX370 is a top-level image capture device that also

offers a high degree of versatility. It can accommodate both 1/3" and 2/3"

lenses, it shoots in standard definition as well as HD, and with an optional

remote control unit it can be used as a studio camera (aided by the included

timecode and genlock functionality).

The variety of resolutions (1080i/p,

720p, 480i/p), frame rates (12-60p), image settings, and recording modes--not to

mention the well-known advantages of a P2 workflow--all provide the flexibility,

functionality, and sheer image quality that have made Panasonic's professional

camcorders the workhorses of so many production environments.

Newly Developed U.L.T. Image Sensor

High levels of sensitivity and image quality have been achieved with a new

high-sensitivity photodiode and low-noise pixel transistor, both based on

low-noise analog process technology that was accumulated in Panasonic CCD camera

development. Plus, the same levels of sensitivity and image quality that are

found in Interlace mode are now possible in Progressive mode thanks to P.A.P.

(Progressive Advanced Processing), a 3D adaptive processing technology.

The AG-HPX370 series comes equipped with a Fujinon 1/3" 17x zoom lens.

Optimized for use with the AG-HPX370 series, this high-performance HD lens

incorporates advanced broadcast lens technologies to achieve a compact size,

light weight, F1.6 at 4.5mm f-value at the wide end, and excellent zoom

response. The zoom is comfortable to grip and use. Also, quick zoom and auto

cruising zoom functions can be allocated to the VTR and RET switches.

Fujinon High-Performance 17x Zoom Lens

Chromatic Aberration Compensation (CAC)

This exclusive technology sets up a conversation between lens and camera

which allows for a highly sophisticated algorithm to be deployed that will

automatically compensate the registration error caused mainly by lens chromatic

aberration, and minimize the circumjacent blur.

Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS)

In scenes with mixed contrast, such as when panning

from indoors to outdoors, the DRS function automatically suppresses blocked

shadows and blown highlights. A gamma curve and knee slope are estimated to

match the contrast of each pixel, and are applied in real time. When dark,

bright, and intermediate shades are all contained in the same scene, this

produces excellent gradation for each shade and minimizes blocked shadows and

blown highlights. The images that result are enhanced by a visually wide dynamic

range. 1

The AG-HPX370 series incorporates a high-performance 20-bit DSP that handles

image rendering processes such as gamma and various detail enhancement functions

with exceptional precision. Consuming less power than conventional processors,

the new DSP contributes to the AG-HPX370's outstanding environmental

performance.

Scene File Dial

There is a 3-position gain selector, with L, M and H settings. To each

setting you can assign a gain value from -3dB to 12dB, in 3dB steps. There is

also a USER button--just give it a quick touch to instantly boost the gain by

24dB.

The AG-HPX370 series incorporates a high-performance 20-bit DSP that handles

image rendering processes such as gamma and various detail enhancement functions

with exceptional precision. Consuming less power than conventional processors,

the new DSP contributes to the AG-HPX370's outstanding environmental

performance.

Scene File Dial

The AG-HPX370 series is equipped with highly accurate flash band detection

and compensation software on the camera's signal processing LSI. By generating

pairs of frames containing flash bands, and frames in which a flash extends from

the previous frame to the entire screen, and then using the compensation process

to adjust the level, the flash band effect of MOS-based imagers is eliminated.

Newly Developed 20-bit Digital Signal Processor

Adjust this dial for an instant set of shooting conditions. Six preset files

are provided, and you can change any of the six file names and their settings as

desired. You can also store and load the settings to and from an SD card.

In scenes with mixed contrast, such as when panning

from indoors to outdoors, the DRS function automatically suppresses blocked

shadows and blown highlights. A gamma curve and knee slope are estimated to

match the contrast of each pixel, and are applied in real time. When dark,

bright, and intermediate shades are all contained in the same scene, this

produces excellent gradation for each shade and minimizes blocked shadows and

blown highlights. The images that result are enhanced by a visually wide dynamic

range. 1

The AG-HPX370 series incorporates a high-performance 20-bit DSP that handles

image rendering processes such as gamma and various detail enhancement functions

with exceptional precision. Consuming less power than conventional processors,

the new DSP contributes to the AG-HPX370's outstanding environmental

performance.

Scene File Dial

There is a 3-position gain selector, with L, M and H settings. To each

setting you can assign a gain value from -3dB to 12dB, in 3dB steps. There is

also a USER button--just give it a quick touch to instantly boost the gain by

24dB.

The AG-HPX370 series incorporates a high-performance 20-bit DSP that handles

image rendering processes such as gamma and various detail enhancement functions

with exceptional precision. Consuming less power than conventional processors,

the new DSP contributes to the AG-HPX370's outstanding environmental

performance.

Scene File Dial

The shutter speed can be set between 1/6.25 second on the slow end in 50Hz

mode (1/6 second in 59.94Hz mode) and 1/2000 second on the fast end. Used with

the variable frame rate function, this allows you to create a blurring effect or

crystal-clear stop-motion of sports action. The AG-HPX370 series also features a

synchro scan function for capturing screen shots from a computer monitor.

Matrix setting, including a Cine-Like mode

Adjustable H detail level, V detail level, detail coring and skin tone

detail

Adjustable chroma level, chroma phase, color temp and master pedestal

Knee point settings: Auto, Low, Mid and High

User files can be saved to an SD card and shared with other cameras. User

files are separate from Scene Files.

4-position (off, 1/4 ND, 1/16 ND, 1/64 ND) optical neutral density filter

wheel

Advanced Image Adjustments Built-In

7-Mode Gamma for Richer Gradation

Drawing on technologies developed for the VariCam, Panasonic has equipped

the AG-HPX370 with advanced gamma functions that address seven different

shooting scenarios and enhance your creative abilities. This includes the

Cine-Like Gamma, which produces the characteristic tone of film recordings.

20-Step Variable Frame Rate

Like the VariCam, the AG-HPX370 series allows

undercranking and overcranking common in film cameras, to create fast-motion and

slow motion effects. In 720p mode, the frame rate can be set to any of 20 steps.

1080/480 24p Advance Mode (in 59.94Hz mode)

The 1080 and 480 progressive recording systems

convert recordings to 60i in 24p, 30p, or 24pA (Advance) mode. The 24p Advance

mode uses 2:3:3:2 pulldown, which allows for an easy extraction to a 24p

timeline and no quality loss in the process with compatible NLEs. 3

The P2 recorder section offers reliable,

large-capacity, high-speed memory card recording and a number of advanced

functions, such as:

Immediate Startup and Better Data Protection

Clip Thumbnail Function

Text Memo (Bookmark) for Simple Editing

SD/SDHC Card Slot

16:9 / 4:3 Aspect Ratio Conversion

Optional Proxy Data Recording

The One-Clip Rec mode is handy for recording a variety of events. Whereas

normal Rec mode produces a clip for each Rec start/stop cut, One-Clip Rec mode

records up to 99 consecutive cuts as a single clip, which greatly improves the

nonlinear editing work that follows. A text memo is automatically attached when

recording begins, making it easy to find desired cuts within the clip.

The AG-HPX370 series can record full 48kHz/16-bit digital audio on all four

channels. You can freely select the audio source for each channel, choosing from

mic-in, line-in, and wireless receiver.

The AG-HPX370 series also supports the conventional DVCPRO HD codec. Because

the AG-HPX370 is designed to be used with the AG-HPX170 series/HVX200A series or

a DVCPRO HD VTR, it adapts to a variety of system configurations.

The AVC-Intra 100 and 50 codecs let you record in a choice of HD video

formats: 1080/25p, 1080/50i, 1080/23.98p or 29.97p as well as 1080/59.94i. These

HD formats bring extra flexibility to all of your production needs. The

AG-HPX370 also supports 720p recording for HD image production in a variety of

formats, including 50p, 59.94p, 23.98p and 29.97p.

This mode delivers video quality very similar to DVCPRO HD, yet is able to

do so at bit rates usually associated with standard definition (e.g., DVCPRO

50). AVC-Intra 50's lower bit rate doubles the recording time per P2 card over

DVCPRO HD and lowers storage requirements for editing.

With the same bit rate as DVCPRO HD, this mode supports full 10-bit

recordings with 1920 x 1080 pixels. It enables the AG-HPX370 to capture

master-quality video for high-end video production.

An AVC-Intra codec board is included as standard equipment. It allows

recording in either of two modes: AVC-Intra 100 for full-pixel HD (1920 x 1080

and 1280 x 720) images, or AVC-Intra 50 for low-bit-rate, low-cost operation.

AVC-Intra is a new codec that further advances HD production. It complies with

the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 international standard based on advanced image compression

technology, and offers both superb image quality and highly efficient

compression. It uses an intra-frame compression system to bring important

advantages to professional editing. In the AG-HPX370 series, a new single-chip

digital signal processor is integrated with the AVC-Intra codec circuit. This is

another way the AG-HPX370 series reduces power consumption.

The AG-HPX370 series comes with scan reverse. This function cancels the

image inversion that occurs when a cinema lens adapter is used.

P2 Recorder Section

The new design improves mobility and operating

ease while supporting a variety of assist functions. Features include:

New Design for an Enhanced Level of Mobility

Controls and Card Slots Grouped on One Side

Low Power Consumption--Only 19W

Focus Assist Functions

Simplified Waveform and Vectorscope Display

Three User Buttons

High Image Quality Color Viewfinder and LCD

Operation

The AG-HPX370 series comes equipped with a wealth

of interfaces:

New Camera Extension System for Low-cost Studio Integration

Remote Control-Ready

HD/SD-SDI Output Terminals and Down-Converter

USB 2.0 Interface

IEEE 1394 Interface

TC IN, TC OUT, and GENLOCK IN Terminals

System Interface

Product Highlights

Advanced 1/3" 2.2MP 3-MOS Sensors

Full 1920 x 1080

Full-raster, 4:2:2, 10-bit Sampling

AVC-Intra / DVCPRO HD

DVCPRO 50 / DVCPRO / DV

Improved Lowlight Sensitivity

Interchangeable 17x Fujinon HD Zoom Lens

2/3" Lens Compatibility

Timecode, Genlock

HD/SD-SDI

Newly Developed U.L.T. Image Sensor

High levels of sensitivity and image quality have been achieved with a new

high-sensitivity photodiode and low-noise pixel transistor, both based on

low-noise analog process technology that was accumulated in Panasonic CCD camera

development. Plus, the same levels of sensitivity and image quality that are

found in Interlace mode are now possible in Progressive mode thanks to P.A.P.

(Progressive Advanced Processing), a 3D adaptive processing technology.

The AG-HPX370 series comes equipped with a Fujinon 1/3" 17x zoom lens.

Optimized for use with the AG-HPX370 series, this high-performance HD lens

incorporates advanced broadcast lens technologies to achieve a compact size,

light weight, F1.6 at 4.5mm f-value at the wide end, and excellent zoom

response. The zoom is comfortable to grip and use. Also, quick zoom and auto

cruising zoom functions can be allocated to the VTR and RET switches.

Fujinon High-Performance 17x Zoom Lens

Chromatic Aberration Compensation (CAC)

This exclusive technology sets up a conversation between lens and camera

which allows for a highly sophisticated algorithm to be deployed that will

automatically compensate the registration error caused mainly by lens chromatic

aberration, and minimize the circumjacent blur.

Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS)

In scenes with mixed contrast, such as when panning

from indoors to outdoors, the DRS function automatically suppresses blocked

shadows and blown highlights. A gamma curve and knee slope are estimated to

match the contrast of each pixel, and are applied in real time. When dark,

bright, and intermediate shades are all contained in the same scene, this

produces excellent gradation for each shade and minimizes blocked shadows and

blown highlights. The images that result are enhanced by a visually wide dynamic

range. 1

The AG-HPX370 series incorporates a high-performance 20-bit DSP that handles

image rendering processes such as gamma and various detail enhancement functions

with exceptional precision. Consuming less power than conventional processors,

the new DSP contributes to the AG-HPX370's outstanding environmental

performance.

Scene File Dial

There is a 3-position gain selector, with L, M and H settings. To each

setting you can assign a gain value from -3dB to 12dB, in 3dB steps. There is

also a USER button--just give it a quick touch to instantly boost the gain by

24dB.

The AG-HPX370 series incorporates a high-performance 20-bit DSP that handles

image rendering processes such as gamma and various detail enhancement functions

with exceptional precision. Consuming less power than conventional processors,

the new DSP contributes to the AG-HPX370's outstanding environmental

performance.

Scene File Dial

The AG-HPX370 series is equipped with highly accurate flash band detection

and compensation software on the camera's signal processing LSI. By generating

pairs of frames containing flash bands, and frames in which a flash extends from

the previous frame to the entire screen, and then using the compensation process

to adjust the level, the flash band effect of MOS-based imagers is eliminated.

Newly Developed 20-bit Digital Signal Processor

Adjust this dial for an instant set of shooting conditions. Six preset files

are provided, and you can change any of the six file names and their settings as

desired. You can also store and load the settings to and from an SD card.

In scenes with mixed contrast, such as when panning

from indoors to outdoors, the DRS function automatically suppresses blocked

shadows and blown highlights. A gamma curve and knee slope are estimated to

match the contrast of each pixel, and are applied in real time. When dark,

bright, and intermediate shades are all contained in the same scene, this

produces excellent gradation for each shade and minimizes blocked shadows and

blown highlights. The images that result are enhanced by a visually wide dynamic

range. 1

The AG-HPX370 series incorporates a high-performance 20-bit DSP that handles

image rendering processes such as gamma and various detail enhancement functions

with exceptional precision. Consuming less power than conventional processors,

the new DSP contributes to the AG-HPX370's outstanding environmental

performance.

Scene File Dial

There is a 3-position gain selector, with L, M and H settings. To each

setting you can assign a gain value from -3dB to 12dB, in 3dB steps. There is

also a USER button--just give it a quick touch to instantly boost the gain by

24dB.

The AG-HPX370 series incorporates a high-performance 20-bit DSP that handles

image rendering processes such as gamma and various detail enhancement functions

with exceptional precision. Consuming less power than conventional processors,

the new DSP contributes to the AG-HPX370's outstanding environmental

performance.

Scene File Dial

The shutter speed can be set between 1/6.25 second on the slow end in 50Hz

mode (1/6 second in 59.94Hz mode) and 1/2000 second on the fast end. Used with

the variable frame rate function, this allows you to create a blurring effect or

crystal-clear stop-motion of sports action. The AG-HPX370 series also features a

synchro scan function for capturing screen shots from a computer monitor.

Matrix setting, including a Cine-Like mode

Adjustable H detail level, V detail level, detail coring and skin tone

detail

Adjustable chroma level, chroma phase, color temp and master pedestal

Knee point settings: Auto, Low, Mid and High

User files can be saved to an SD card and shared with other cameras. User

files are separate from Scene Files.

4-position (off, 1/4 ND, 1/16 ND, 1/64 ND) optical neutral density filter

wheel

Advanced Image Adjustments Built-In

7-Mode Gamma for Richer Gradation

Drawing on technologies developed for the VariCam, Panasonic has equipped

the AG-HPX370 with advanced gamma functions that address seven different

shooting scenarios and enhance your creative abilities. This includes the

Cine-Like Gamma, which produces the characteristic tone of film recordings.

20-Step Variable Frame Rate

Like the VariCam, the AG-HPX370 series allows

undercranking and overcranking common in film cameras, to create fast-motion and

slow motion effects. In 720p mode, the frame rate can be set to any of 20 steps.

1080/480 24p Advance Mode (in 59.94Hz mode)

The 1080 and 480 progressive recording systems

convert recordings to 60i in 24p, 30p, or 24pA (Advance) mode. The 24p Advance

mode uses 2:3:3:2 pulldown, which allows for an easy extraction to a 24p

timeline and no quality loss in the process with compatible NLEs. 3

The P2 recorder section offers reliable,

large-capacity, high-speed memory card recording and a number of advanced

functions, such as:

Immediate Startup and Better Data Protection

Clip Thumbnail Function

Text Memo (Bookmark) for Simple Editing

SD/SDHC Card Slot

16:9 / 4:3 Aspect Ratio Conversion

Optional Proxy Data Recording

The One-Clip Rec mode is handy for recording a variety of events. Whereas

normal Rec mode produces a clip for each Rec start/stop cut, One-Clip Rec mode

records up to 99 consecutive cuts as a single clip, which greatly improves the

nonlinear editing work that follows. A text memo is automatically attached when

recording begins, making it easy to find desired cuts within the clip.

The AG-HPX370 series can record full 48kHz/16-bit digital audio on all four

channels. You can freely select the audio source for each channel, choosing from

mic-in, line-in, and wireless receiver.

The AG-HPX370 series also supports the conventional DVCPRO HD codec. Because

the AG-HPX370 is designed to be used with the AG-HPX170 series/HVX200A series or

a DVCPRO HD VTR, it adapts to a variety of system configurations.

The AVC-Intra 100 and 50 codecs let you record in a choice of HD video

formats: 1080/25p, 1080/50i, 1080/23.98p or 29.97p as well as 1080/59.94i. These

HD formats bring extra flexibility to all of your production needs. The

AG-HPX370 also supports 720p recording for HD image production in a variety of

formats, including 50p, 59.94p, 23.98p and 29.97p.

This mode delivers video quality very similar to DVCPRO HD, yet is able to

do so at bit rates usually associated with standard definition (e.g., DVCPRO

50). AVC-Intra 50's lower bit rate doubles the recording time per P2 card over

DVCPRO HD and lowers storage requirements for editing.

With the same bit rate as DVCPRO HD, this mode supports full 10-bit

recordings with 1920 x 1080 pixels. It enables the AG-HPX370 to capture

master-quality video for high-end video production.

An AVC-Intra codec board is included as standard equipment. It allows

recording in either of two modes: AVC-Intra 100 for full-pixel HD (1920 x 1080

and 1280 x 720) images, or AVC-Intra 50 for low-bit-rate, low-cost operation.

AVC-Intra is a new codec that further advances HD production. It complies with

the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 international standard based on advanced image compression

technology, and offers both superb image quality and highly efficient

compression. It uses an intra-frame compression system to bring important

advantages to professional editing. In the AG-HPX370 series, a new single-chip

digital signal processor is integrated with the AVC-Intra codec circuit. This is

another way the AG-HPX370 series reduces power consumption.

The AG-HPX370 series comes with scan reverse. This function cancels the

image inversion that occurs when a cinema lens adapter is used.

P2 Recorder Section

The new design improves mobility and operating

ease while supporting a variety of assist functions. Features include:

New Design for an Enhanced Level of Mobility

Controls and Card Slots Grouped on One Side

Low Power Consumption--Only 19W

Focus Assist Functions

Simplified Waveform and Vectorscope Display

Three User Buttons

High Image Quality Color Viewfinder and LCD

Operation

The AG-HPX370 series comes equipped with a wealth

of interfaces:

New Camera Extension System for Low-cost Studio Integration

Remote Control-Ready

HD/SD-SDI Output Terminals and Down-Converter

USB 2.0 Interface

IEEE 1394 Interface

TC IN, TC OUT, and GENLOCK IN Terminals

System Interface

Product Highlights

Advanced 1/3" 2.2MP 3-MOS Sensors

Full 1920 x 1080

Full-raster, 4:2:2, 10-bit Sampling

AVC-Intra / DVCPRO HD

DVCPRO 50 / DVCPRO / DV

Improved Lowlight Sensitivity

Interchangeable 17x Fujinon HD Zoom Lens

2/3" Lens Compatibility

Timecode, Genlock

HD/SD-SDI