Panasonic debuted its LUMXIX S5IIX and S5II hybrid full-frame mirrorless cameras at CES in Las Vegas featuring a new 24.2MP sensor and new processor born from the Panasonic and LEICA L2 Technology alliance.
This makes possible Phase Hybrid AF and Active IS for reinforced command over subject tracking and stabilisation. Other features include unlimited 4:2:2 10-bit C4K/4K recording achieved via a fan and high-efficiency heat sink; full-sensor video shooting; and Real Time LUT for on-the-spot colour grading without postproduction.
The LUMIX S5IIX sports a LUMIX-first monochromatic all-black look, while the S5II features the signature LUMIX design with red and white accents. The S5IIX sets itself apart from the S5II with a range of pro-level video features pre-installed, including HDMI RAW video data output, USB-SSD, ALL-Intra and ProRes recording, and wireless and wired IP streaming.
Panasonic has developed a new 24.2-megapixel 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor that features on-sensor PDAF (Phase Detection Auto-Focus). Under the L 2 Technology alliance formed by LEICA and LUMIX, both brands co-invested to develop a new imaging engine that has approximately 2x higher-speed signal processing for high bit-rate video recording and improved high burst rate photography.
LUMIX has taken the accuracy of Depth From Defocus and the smart subject detection of AI and added Phase Detection to offer high performance auto focus, in both photo and video modes. The new PDAF has 779 focus points, and with the new generation processor, provides total AF confidence and strong ‘lock’ on the subject.
Major improvements to the AF performance for overall reliability when shooting at 24fps mean the cameras are perfect for YouTube content creators. With an increased buffer memory size, the LUMIX S5II and S5IIX are capable of high-speed burst shooting at up to 30 fps (AFS/AFC) with an electronic shutter in JPEG/RAW.
Another game-changer delivered with the LUMIX S5II and S5IIX is the new Active I.S. The system can compensate for significant camera shake in video recording, approximately 200% more when compared to the LUMIX S5. In addition, the cameras offer Dual I.S.2 with a high-precision 5-axis gyro sensor for stills shooting.
Built for the videographer in mind, the cameras introduce 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (3:2), which makes it easy to crop for multiple aspect ratios (16:9, 9:16, 1:1) from the same source footage while maintaining resolution. The camera’s new and extremely compact active heat management system delivers unlimited recording in all environments.
Live Crop allows digital zooming and panning on the 6K sensor in a 4K video recording, making it easy for a creator to add smooth motion without moving the camera. In a step up from the S5, the new, larger 3,680K-dot OLED LVF (Live View Finder) has a magnification ratio of approx. 1.52x / 0.76x (35mm camera equivalent).
A free-angle 3.0-inch LCD rear monitor (3:2 aspect, 1840K-dot) with touch control allows for quick changes to settings. The drive dial now includes a setting for 96-megapixel high resolution mode. In this mode the camera captures eight images in quick succession, with small movements of the sensor between shots to capture extra resolution. This mode also features motion compensation, further expanding the use of High Resolution Mode in general photography.
The LUMIX S5II and S5IIX incorporate a new heat dispersion mechanism combining a small fan and high-efficiency heat sink. As a result, they achieve continuous video recording in C4K 60p. To withstand heavy field use, the cameras have a magnesium alloy full die-cast body and are splash/dust-resistant.
The LUMIX S5II and S5IIX support USB 3.2 Gen 2 for high-speed writing and readout. The dual SD Card slots (UHS-II x 2) offer a choice of Relay Recording, Backup Recording or Allocation Recording modes, with the card access indicator now located inside the card slot cover.
The LUMIX S5IIX has all of the features of the LUMIX S5II and more. it is the first full-frame mirrorless camera to record directly to an external SSD (solid-state drive) via USB-C. Professionals will also benefit from the inclusion of advanced video codecs such as All-Intra and ProRes. The camera is capable of RAW video output via HDMI supported by an external recorder.
The cameras will be available from leading photographic specialists. The LUMIX S5II is available in late January 2023 and the S5IIX is available in late May 2023.