SONY Z200
THE VERDICT
If you’ve lived with the Z190 for years, you’ll know it is a very capable camcorder that’s ideal for recording events and can be used for streaming effectively, too. But the Z200 is a better tool when it comes to the former, with higher-quality footage, better AF, more effective image stabilisation and a few cool AI tricks. The Z190 has fallen behind not only when it comes to recording footage to cards, but also live broadcasting it, uploading it to the cloud for sharing or even for live switching. For that, the Z200 is light years ahead and surely worth the upgrade. However, if you don’t need 12G-SDI, broadcast- ready MXF wrapper in XAVC, timecode or compatibility with the Remote Production Unit, Sony also now has the NX800. This camera is identical in looks and spec to the Z200, but without these higher- end options and is cheaper at £3035/$3300. And that makes it a bit of a bargain.
Facebook Live and it will tether over USB or via Wi-Fi to a computer. If you want more options, the camera is compatible with Sony’s PDT-FP1 Portable Data Transmitter – this uses SIM cards to stream in 5G via mobile networks out in the field. Or add on the CBK- RPU7 Remote Production Unit for connection via the 12G-SDI port. To get footage out to members of your team who may want to start on an edit, the camera supports uploads via a smart device to Sony’s Creators’ Cloud for Enterprise. This offers storage, switching via the cloud and editing functions online. There is also support for FTP servers, with XAVC S and HS footage as well as proxy files all supported. And it’s in the modern workflow that this camera sets itself apart from its predecessor. As a camera to record top-quality footage in 4K, the Z200 is definitely a step forward from the Z190 in many ways. But in terms of streaming, networking and connectivity, it’s a giant leap ahead.
Other new tech includes a Nightshot function where the camera can record in almost total darkness and produce footage in a natural-looking black & white. Ideal for wildlife or newsgathering, especially with the long lens. But it’s in connectivity where the camera really shines. Sony’s newest Monitor & Control app lets you use a smart device as a wireless remote monitor, offering waveform, false colour, zebra and histogram tools as well as control over most camera settings. It’s fast and simple and many Sony users already have it with other cameras in the range. For streaming, there are lots of options using the built-in technology. It can direct stream over a WAN using the common RTMP/S system or the newer SRT protocol, which offers very low latency. Just key in the Wi-Fi access passwords and where you want to stream to in the camera’s menu, and you’re ready to broadcast to the world. It’s the system used by YouTube and
SUPERSIZE ME Shooting in 4K, this shows the incredible reach of the zoom lens from wide to tight. You can go even tighter if you select HD or digital zoom
More information
sony.com
HOW IT RATES
Features: 9 Packed with the latest spec and ideal for streaming Performance: 9 It is a do-it-all solution that produces great results Handling: 9 Sony has the know-how in building camcorders for professionals Value for money: 8 The Z200 offers it all but is not a cheap option OVERALL RATING: 9/10 A fixed-lens camcorder that can be used by pros and amateurs Pros: Touch-tracking AF, easy streaming, simple to use Cons: Not everyone uses CFexpress Type A media
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