The Panasonic Lumix S1 range is enriched with a new model with full-frame sensor dedicated to the world of cinema and live streaming: Lumix BS1H. The B in the name indicates the nature of this mirrorless, a box style with outstanding video skills.
The new Lumix BS1H arrives one year after its younger sister BGH1, very similar in shape but equipped with a Micro Four Thirds sensor. Instead, it takes the capabilities of the full-frame sensor from the Lumix S1H and relies on Dual Native ISO technology. It is therefore the perfect combination of the practicality of the BGH1 and the cinematic quality of the S1H.
Lumix BS1H: the technical characteristics
Within the new versatile Lumix mirrorless we find a sensor CMOS da 24,2 megapixel, can offer a maximum video resolution of 6K. Thanks to the Dual Native ISO technology, the sensor minimizes the disturbances deriving from the use of high ISO sensitivities, independently selecting the most suitable circuitry for each sensitivity. In this way the noise will be contained even at high ISO values.
Thanks to this technology and the computing power of the Venus Engine processor, Panasonic ensures shooting up to ISO 51,200 with minimal noise.
The new Lumix BS1H will be able to record up to 6K / 24p, 5.4K / 30p (in 3: 2 format) or 5.9K / 30p (in 16: 9 format). Going down to a Super 35mm format, you can also record at 10bit 60p in 4K / C4K 1 HEVC resolution. Anamorphic format (4: 3) is also available.
Through the HDMI output it is possible to record in 4K 60p / 50p in 4: 2: 2 10-bit format and thanks to the two alternatives available for the uncompressed RAW stream, it really allows you to meet the most diverse creative needs. 12-bit RAW data (5.9K, 4K and 3.5K anamorphic) can be transmitted via HDMI to save in Apple ProRes RAW on Atomos Ninja V or in Blackmagic Raw on Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR.
The dynamic range offered by this box camera is also particularly extended, offering up to 14+ stop con V-Log. We are therefore talking about a range identical to that of Panasonic film cameras, so that the versatile BS1H can also be included in a highly professional workflow.
Dynamic range extension isn’t the only feature inherited from the cinema world VariCam, we also find the same colorimetry based on two curves to optimize the dynamic range but also the color space. We are talking about V-Log and V-Gamut. The first retains all the color information ensuring greater flexibility during post-production. The V-Gamut curve, on the other hand, enriches the color space going beyond the BT.2020 standard.
There is also no shortage of HDR and HLG modes, but it doesn’t end there. On Lumix BS1H we also find a technology capable of detecting in real time the movement of subjects – humans and animals – which allows you to set a precise focus on the target.
Finally, Lumix BS1H is equipped with a new structure for heat dispersion, thanks to which you can record without limits.
Live streaming in high quality
But there is not only the cinema world waiting for the new Lumix BS1H full-frame mirrorless, because even those who work in the production of live streaming content will be able to take advantage of this novelty. In fact, one has been added dedicated IP streaming function, which allows you to transmit high quality images remotely on an online social streaming platform through a PC or a wired LAN network. With this box-style camera it is possible to transmit in 4K 60p in H.265 format. Recording in H.265 means having half the bitrate with the same quality as H.264, thus enabling Ultra HD 4K quality even when the bandwidth is not wide enough.
The machine body in aluminum and magnesium alloy has been equipped with the main connectivity. In particular, we find a USB 3.1 Type C port with 3G-SDI (BNC) interface and an HDMI Type A, both of which can be used simultaneously.
Obviously, as we have already mentioned, there is a LAN socket, which thanks to the Power over Ethernet + (PoE +) system is enough to connect to a network, power the camera and transfer the video file. Furthermore, in the most complex sets, thanks to the LAN connection, through the Lumix Tether for Multicam software, it is possible to insert up to 12 BS1H in a single stream and manage them via PC. For internal recording, however, we have a double SD card slot.
There is also a series of predispositions to create a practical and complete system: we can mount external monitors, stabilizers and gimbals.
Finally, a great advantage that the larger sensor brings is to take advantage of the L-Mount bayonet, the one on which the Lumix S system is based. This means being able to count on the Boost IS function for image stabilization, adjust AF / AE and also use compatible lenses from Sigma and Leica.
Lumix BS1H will be available on the market starting from the end of November 2021 at a suggested retail price of € 3499.