The Japanese powerhouse Sony Electronics announced two new video cameras with the latest optical image stabilization technology developed by the company. The FDR-X3000 and the HDR-AS300 will retail for $400 and $300 respectively by the end of September.
Sony’s reveal follows a stellar show last week at the Internationale Funkausstellung Berlin (IFA) 2016, where the tech giant showcased an impressive lineup of new products. Everything from the Xperia smartphone line to the Walkman media player and the PlayStation VR made an appearance in the German capital.
The FDR-X3000 was first presented at IFA as well, along with Sony’s award-winning series of digital lenses for digital photography cameras.
FDR-X3000 and HDR-AS300: Specs and Features
Both of Sony’s new action video cameras are identical on the outside. The X3000 and AS300 sport a compact, white body that easily fits in the recorder’s hand. To difference both models, Sony includes a ‘4K’ sign below its logo on the FDR-X3000.
The key difference between both video cameras is precisely that: image resolution. The AS300 is a full high-definition model while the X3000 can record video in 4K. However, the two Sony devices record in 16:9 aspect ratio and read over 8 million pixels in all of their shooting modes.
Both pieces allow the cameras to record in low-light settings and read data and color faster and better for a great video result.
However, the star feature of the FDR-X3000 and the HDR-AS300 is the cutting-edge Balanced Optical SteadyShot (B.O.SS) system. This new image stabilization technology offers smoother images while in motion thanks to its inner design. In Sony’s latest action cameras packing B.O.SS, the lens and the sensor are fixed together so that image caption is more stable by passing through both optical systems at once.
Both cameras pack a wide-angle ZEISS Tessar lens with a 2.8 aperture and a built-in microphone that reduces wind noise interference on video. There are three zoom preset modes in the X3000 and the AS300, as well as slow motion support for shooting in up to 120fps in full HD, and 30fps in 4K.
Price and availability
In the U.S. the FDR-X3000 and the HDR-AS300 can be purchased alone for $400 and $300 respectively, but there is another option for an extra $150. Named FDR-X3000R and HDR-AS300R, these models will come bundled with a Live-View Remote for full-on action shooting.
The Live-View Remote is a remote display in the form of a watch that lives stream the footage from the camera to the portable screen. Other accessories like the AKA-MCP1 lens shield and body casing will sell for $35. This grants the action cams with waterproof capabilities for depths up to 60 m.
Both models, single and bundled, will be available in the U.S. in late September from selected retailers.
Source: Sony