Panasonic is proud to announce two ground-breaking additions to its LUMIX S Series mirrorless camera range: the sleek matte black LUMIX S5IIX and the classically styled LUMIX S5II. With incredible performance in both photo and video capture and stunning lightweight mobility, these L Mount cameras are designed to fulfil the demands of the most ambitious creators while representing exceptional value for money.

Both models are built around a newly developed 24-megapixel 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor and imaging engine. The sensor supports Hybrid Phase Detection Auto-Focus, a first for LUMIX cameras, while the new engine provides superb image quality and high bit-rate video performance on a par with the LUMIX S1H.

The LUMIX S5IIX will be available from Spring 2023 priced at €2,499 / £2,299 / $2,199 RRP, while the LUMIX S5II will be available from Winter 2023 priced at €2,199 / £1,999 / $1,999 RRP. Both cameras are compatible with the entire existing range of 14 LUMIX S lenses, plus further full-frame L-Mount system lenses produced by Panasonic’s L-Mount partners.

Setting new standards in LUMIX AF performance

With a new imaging engine developed within the L2 Technology partnership formed by LEICA and LUMIX, and a new 24-megapixel sensor, the LUMIX S5II and S5IIX are the first LUMIX cameras to offer Hybrid Phase Detection Auto-Focus (PDAF).

The cameras use a new Phase Hybrid AF system combining PDAF with Contrast Detect AF. Fast and dependable and providing 779-area metering, the new system is able to detect target subjects in difficult conditions such as low light and backlighting and, once locked on, will remain tracking them even with other moving objects in the frame.

Continuous AF during zooming1 and AF micro adjustment are also available.

1 Conventional zoom lenses require firmware update to use Continuous AF during zooming.

A wealth of video functions and recording options

The new engine gives the LUMIX S5IIX and S5II video recording capabilities including internal 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (3:2) and 5.9K (16:9) at 30fps and 4:2:2 C4K and 4K at up to 60fps, while a new low-profile heat management system allows for unlimited recording times1 without increasing the size of the camera body. The cameras also support HFR (High Frame Rate) recording at up to 120fps and Slow & Quick capture at up to 180fps.

The LUMIX S5IIX is capable of 5.8K Apple ProRes recording to SSD via HDMI or USB, and ALL-Intra Recording. Additionally, the S5iiX can support Apple Pro Res RAW video output to Atomos. It also supports wired and wireless IP streaming and USB tethering.

A range of picture profiles including 14+ stop V-Log/V-Gamut are available on both models, as well as a new REAL TIME LUT function enabling colour grading LUTs to be uploaded to an SD card and directly applied in-camera rather than in post-production.

In response to requests from professional users, functions such as Waveform Monitor, Vector Scope and Zebra Pattern have been added, as well as features such as System Frequency (24.00Hz) and Synchro Scan.

Clear and realistic 48kHz/24-bit audio can be recorded by the built-in or an external microphone, while high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit recording is possible with external and XLR microphones.

1 When the camera is used at recommended operating temperature 0-40 degrees C. 6K and 5.9K at 30p/25p video recording stops once when continuous recording time exceeds 30 minutes if [Thermal Management] is set to [STANDARD].

2 Requires USB-LAN adapter, sold separately.

Professional photo and video performance

Thanks to host of new and improved features, the LUMIX S5IIX and S5II are able to deliver truly astounding photo and video performance, including high-speed burst shooting at up to 9fps with mechanical shutter and 30fps with electronic shutter (capable of capturing up to 300 images), a 96-megapixel High Resolution Mode (JPEG/RAW) and Dual Native ISO sensitivity, which minimises noise and allows a maximum ISO of 51200 (204800 when Extended).

The LUMIX S5IIX and S5II also boast an upgraded image stabilisation system to greatly enhance handheld shooting in a wide range of conditions and situations. The new Active I.S. provides highly stable video recording by optimising horizontal, vertical and rotational correction. Compensating as much as 200%2 compared to conventional stabilisation, Active I.S. is especially effective in traditionally challenging conditions for handheld shooting, such as using telephoto lenses or filming while walking.

1 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=200mm when S-E70200 is used. Firmware must be updated to the latest version.

2 Compared with LUMIX S5. Focal length 20mm, when using S-R2060.

Superior handling and options for ‘one-person crew’ operation

The LUMIX S5IIX and S5II offer a highly refined shooting experience, allowing creators to achieve excellent results with minimal workflow thanks to features such as AWB Lock, MF Assist (available for both video1 and photo shooting) and a new Live Crop function, which records video footage using the entire sensor surface enabling the user to crop 4K and FHD images out afterwards.

Usability is further enhanced with the new easy-to-operate 8-way joystick, expanded drive dial, 3.0-inch free-angle touch-control monitor and large, 3,680K-dot OLED Live View Finder.

1 Up to 60p. Does not work in Variable Frame Rate mode.

Class-leading reliability and connectivity

The cameras are built to robust standards for in-field use, with magnesium alloy die-cast front and rear frames and a splash- and dust-resistant1 construction.

Connectivity has been improved over the LUMIX S5, with the LUMIX S5IIX and S5II each featuring a full-size HDMI Type A terminal and high-speed USB 3.2 Gen 2, plus a cable lock holder to prevent unwanted unplugging. Wireless connectivity has been improved too, with Wi-Fi 5GHz2 joining 2.4GHz to provide fast, stable communication with smartphones and tablets.

Dual card slots (both UHS-II) support Relay Recording, Backup Recording and Allocation Recording and the 2200mAh high-capacity battery can be recharged via AC or USB.

1 Dust and Splash Resistant does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this lens is subjected to direct contact with dust and water.

2 5GHz Wi-Fi is not available in some countries.

Future firmware update and LUMIX Pro program

Users will be able to further enhance LUMIX S5IIX and S5II performance through a future firmware update, which will add a host of functions including RAW data output and Live View Composite.

More information on the update will be announced ahead of its release.

The LUMIX S5II and LUMIX S5IIX are qualifying products for the LUMIX PRO program. The LUMIX PRO program is designed to support LUMIX users when they need it the most, with a range of benefits available to members not only in their own countries but also in countries that they visit for work. Check out www.lumix-pro.com for details and Terms & Conditions, on eligible levels, countries and products.

 

Panasonic is proud to introduce the LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO, a new budget-friendly ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for the L-Mount system. With a zoom range making it suitable for everything from sweeping landscape shots to expressive portraits and a macro capability for close-up work, this is a versatile lens built to excel at a variety of video and photo tasks.

The LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO is comprised of 14 lens elements in 10 groups including one aspherical ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lens, one aspherical lens, three ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lenses and one UHR (Ultra High Refractive Index) lens. The use of aspherical lenses enables both sharp detail and stunning bokeh, while the three ED lenses effectively suppress chromatic aberration.

Despite its compact size and low weight (approximately 345g), the LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO boasts 0.25x (at 14mm) to 0.5x (at 28mm) macro capability. Taking advantage of the minimum focusing distance of 0.15m through its entire zoom range, it can be used for close-up shots with beautiful bokeh.

The LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO is capable of smooth, silent operation, working with the camera’s high-speed, high-precision AF system. For the non-linear setting, focus is shifted with a variable amount according to the rotation speed of the focus ring; for the linear setting, focus is shifted with a designated amount according to the rotational quantum of the focus ring. Sensitivity (the amount of focus shift per rotational quantum) can be adjusted from 90º to 360º, giving the user outstanding control over focus performance.

The LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO also excels in video recording performance, offering professional-level features such as micro-step aperture control for smooth exposure change and a mechanism to suppress focus breathing – often a major issue on interchangeable lenses designed for still image photography.

The lens’ rugged dust- and splash-resistant design makes it suitable for use in harsh conditions, including at up to -10º Celsius. A fluorine coating applied to the front lens element helps repel oil and water. Filters can be attached via a 77mm diameter thread.

The LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO and LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 lens feature a common overall length and position of control parts to provide practical advantages in use. The weight and centre of gravity of these lenses is almost the same, allowing users to exchange lenses quickly with minimal balance adjustment should the camera be mounted on a gimbal.

LUMIX S Series users now have access to three cost-effective zoom lenses covering the commonly used 14mm ultra wide-angle to 300mm telephoto range: the LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO (S-R1428), LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 (S-R2060) and LUMIX S 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 MACRO O.I.S. (S-R70300). Each of these lenses offers high optical performance and stunning mobility when fitted to LUMIX S5 series cameras.

The Panasonic LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO will be available from February 2023 priced at € 999 / £ 879,99.

The LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO is a qualifying product for the LUMIX PRO program. The LUMIX PRO program is designed to support LUMIX users when they need it the most, with a range of benefits available to members not only in their own countries but also in countries that they visit for work. Check out www.lumix-pro.com for details and Terms & Conditions, on eligible levels, countries and products.

 

Panasonic announces its flagship OLED TV for 2023, the MZ2000, available in 55-,65-, and 77-inch sizes. With their Hollywood tuning and superb colour accuracy, Panasonic OLED TVs have long been lauded as the finest choice for films, TV shows, and gaming. Now Panasonic’s latest flagship model comes with a state-of-the-art new panel and remarkable heat management system1, alongside a host of proprietary picture processing, gaming, and audio improvements. The result is Panasonic’s best and brightest picture – making the MZ2000 a must-have TV for 2023.

• Panasonic’s pioneering new design ushers in a new era of OLED expression, comprising a state-of-the-art panel with Micro Lens Array, and a bespoke multi-layer heat management configuration.
• The brand’s HCX Pro AI processor and Hollywood tuning ensures stunningly accurate HDR picture quality.
• An improved Filmmaker Mode means that viewers can enjoy content as the artist intended – in whatever environment they’re watching.
• New gaming features include NVIDIA G-Sync Compatibility, True Game Mode, source-oriented tone mapping, and Game Sound Modes.
• Panasonic’s proprietary 360° Soundscape is now further enhanced by an upgraded Bass Booster algorithm for deeper low frequencies.
• Available in 55-, 65-, and 77-inch sizes.

PANASONIC’S BEST HDR PICTURE YET
When it comes to delivering a perfect HDR picture, brightness is everything – and the MZ2000 introduces a completely new era in the possibilities of OLED expression and brightness.

The MZ2000 uses Panasonic’s new custom module, called the “Master OLED Ultimate”, which uses a state-of-the-art panel with Micro Lens Array, combined with a new multi-layer heat management configuration developed by Panasonic engineers. The result is a major step-up in brightness, with peak brightness increases of approximately 150%, and average brightness also improved compared to last year’s models. The combination of the new module with Panasonic’s HCX Pro AI Processor ensures every detail is clear, with realistic highlights and stunning colour accuracy.

Also, as with previous models, the MZ2000 supports a wide range of HDR formats, including Dolby Vision IQ™, HDR10+ Adaptive, and HLG Photo, the still image format that brings still photography into the HDR world.

CINEMA QUALITY VIEWING
The new MZ2000 OLED represents the combination of a brand new panel and module, with Panasonic’s technical accuracy made possible by Japanese knowhow and engineering, merged with the colour-tuning skills of Stefan Sonnenfeld.

Stefan Sonnenfeld, Founder and CEO of Company 3 is a trusted collaborator of some of the world’s best filmmakers. Sonnenfeld is among a handful of leading artists who have championed the power of colour grading to tell stories and communicate emotion.

Described by NPR as the “da Vinci of the movies,” Sonnenfeld has applied his skills as a colourist to many of the most acclaimed and popular features of the past decade: Top Gun: Maverick, A Star is Born, Wonder Woman, Man of Steel, Beauty and the Beast, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Jurassic World, 300 and many more. Like many other leading colourists, he uses Panasonic OLED screens as large-format client reference monitors in his daily workflow. Indeed, Panasonic’s OLED TVs are widely used in studios and postproduction houses.

In addition, the MZ2000 features an improved Filmmaker Mode that ensures that viewers can enjoy their content exactly as the artist intended – whether they’re watching in a purpose-built cinema room or an airy family living space.

Ambient colour temperature sensing has been upgraded for Filmmaker Mode, ensuring accurate picture reproduction in any lighting conditions; for example, by lowering the temperature in response to warmly lit conditions, or brightening the dark tones in extremely light environments.

SEAMLESS STREAMING
As well as optimising the picture based on its surroundings, the MZ2000 also improves the streaming experience for most sources.

Important for streamed content that can vary from HD and beyond, the Streaming 4K Remaster algorithm identifies the resolution and analyses textures by area to deliver more detailed, cleaner images through adaptive advanced processing. The result is crisper and more natural-looking streamed content.

INCREDIBLE GAMING EXPERIENCES
Gaming has developed rapidly in recent years. Plots are scripted like Hollywood blockbusters, 3D worlds are bigger and more realistic than ever before, and there are myriad gaming universes to explore.

To fully immerse in this growing world of entertainment, gamers have traditionally turned to monitors to get the most out of the latest consoles and PCs that offer advanced rendering technologies and superfast load times.

However, this can all now be achieved with the new MZ2000. With support for HDMI 2.1 key features, full 4K resolution, up to 120Hz refresh rate, ultra-low latency, and input lag, VRR, and AMD Freesync Premium, the MZ2000 is the perfect solution for gamers.

The MZ2000 is also NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible. When connected to a system using a NVIDIA RTX graphics card, it automatically optimises input lag and VRR settings for tear- and stutter-free gaming sessions, on a TV validated and now recognized by NVIDIA. 

To ensure every title looks its best, the new True Game Mode brings all the colour accuracy features available for movies into the world of gaming, while improved HDR Tone Mapping delivers source-oriented expression from the gaming device. In addition, True Game Mode is calibratable and shows the Calman Calibrated logo after adjustment with Portrait Displays’ Calman® Color calibration software – the de facto standard in the world of content creation, distribution and playback. This means True Game Mode reproduces games as intended by their creators. Meanwhile, Dolby Vision® unlocks the most lifelike visuals each game has to offer.

Of course, there’s more to crafting a great gaming experience than delivering the perfect image. Newly added gaming sound modes allow users to fully lose themselves in the gameplay, adding new layers of intensity, tension, and reality tailored to whatever title they’re playing.

Available to set up in the MZ2000’s upgraded Game Control Board, RPG (Role-Playing Game) Sound Mode is designed to make users feel as though they are submerged inside the game’s virtual world, while FPS (First-Person Shooter) Mode provides accurate audio location, allowing users to hear subtle sounds such as footsteps for a tactical advantage.

SUPERIOR SOUND
For 2023, the Bass Booster algorithm has been upgraded. When selected from the menu, it delivers a deep, fast responding bass, meaning that customers can enjoy truly dynamic sound through Panasonic’s 360° Soundscape all-in-one TV audio package. Tuned by Technics, the multiple built-in upward-firing, side-firing, and front-firing speaker units produce a fully immersive spatial soundstage with Dolby Atmos® that brings movies and games to life.

Running the entire length of the TV behind the front speaker grille, the array speakers allow for a wider, more precise soundstage, as well as the ability to adjust the relative audio volume in different parts of the room.

The MZ2000 comes with three Sound Focus modes: Pinpoint Mode, which allows the sound to be directed to one specific point; Area Mode, which lets you shift the sound to a group of people in a specific area of the room; and Spot Mode, which boosts the volume in one spot while allowing other to still hear the sound.

Directional sound unlocks a plethora of usability benefits. Parents with young children sleeping behind a wall on one side of the room can direct the sound away from them so that the children can sleep peacefully while still allowing the parents to enjoy great sound. Another practical application is being able to boost the volume for a viewer who is hard of hearing.

MY HOME SCREEN 8.0 IMPROVEMENTS
The MZ2000 features the latest iteration of Panasonic’s highly rated smart TV OS, my Home Screen 8.0, which supports all major video streaming services and comes with improvements to the Bass Booster function, accessibility features, and the myScenery function.

Panasonic has worked with the German Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted to further improve our accessibility options. In the initial set up, the MZ2000 offers different setting options for both hearing and visually impaired users, which then can be guided through the initial setup by Voice Guidance to simplify the first time installation of the Panasonic TV. In addition, it provides a function for visually impaired users to learn the buttons by audible feedback.

As well as offering these important accessibility improvements, the MZ2000 also helps you relax. The myScenery feature, which allows you to choose a selection of restful images and videos, has new nature sounds, which have been collected from all over the world by the Joy Foundation, inc. and newly encoded in Dolby Atmos® format.