Panasonic BS1H - cube cam with full-frame sensor under 600 grams
[16:59 Thu,7.October 2021 by Rudi Schmidts]
After the BGH1, Panasonic launches another cube cam that literally has it all: With almost the same dimensions as the MFT model BGH1, the new BS1H features the full-frame sensor and almost all the technology of the LUMIX S1H. The compact body (93 x 93 x 78.8mm) weighs just 585 grams without battery and lens.
Compared to the LUMIX S1H, the sensor&s movable bearing as well as the display and viewfinder have unfortunately fallen by the wayside. In return, however, an SDI and Ethernet port are added. The network options, which among other things enable the integration of the camera into an IP-based broadcast structure, have also been greatly expanded compared to the S1H. This makes the BS1H equally suitable for scenic work and vlogging as well as for studio and streaming applications.
The BS1H can output a video signal simultaneously via SDI and HDMI, with the SDI output limited to 1080p60 in 16:9 according to the 3G standard. On a professional level, the SDI HD output is 10-bit 4:2:2. This also applies to the HDMI output, which supports up to 2160p60 in 10-bit 4:2:2. Recording is done on two internal SD slots, which also offer the usual write strategies (including relay or backup).
Networker.
The Ethernet port supports PowerOverEthernet+ (PoE+), where the camera can draw its power directly from the Ethernet cable. With only one connection cable, the camera can thus be integrated into a fixed network via a central router.
In addition to a BNC timecode in/out connector, there is also a BNC genlock input to be able to switch between synchronous cameras really precisely at frame changes. For use as a studio camera, two highly visible tally LEDs have also been integrated into the housing.
Those who want to control the camera&s functions remotely can do so via LAN or USB. Panasonic even provides its own SDK for this. At the same time, the camera can be remotely controlled from a simple PC in a pool with up to 11 other cameras using "Lumix Tether for Multicam". Ideally, each of the cameras is connected to a router via only one PoE+ cable. Using appropriate LAN setups, even 4K live streaming at up to 60p/50p in H.265 becomes possible.
Scenic talent with V-Log and RAW.
The sensor used is the LUMIX S1H&s 6K full-frame sensor. V-Log with over 14 stops of dynamic range is included right from the start, as is external RAW recording with Atomos (ProRes RAW) or Blackmagic (BRAW) recorders. The internal recording formats correspond practically 1:1 to the possibilities of the S1H. In short, 10-bit 4:2:2 in 4K up to 30p works here. At 50 or 60p in 4K, as well as at 24/25p in 6K, the camera cuts back to 10-bit 4:2:0. In HD, up to 60p with 4:2:2 is also possible. In addition, there is a slow motion with up to 180fps in FHD. Thermal problems are not an issue, according to Panasonic, since an internal active fan is installed.
For scenic widescreen applications, the S1H&s anamorphic recording capabilities have also been adopted. For social media productions, the monitor preview can also fade in vertical frame guides.
Headphone and microphone connections are only available as mini-jack, but the optional external XLR adapter DMX-XLR1 also connects to the BS1H.
The LUMIX BS1H will be available in stores from November 2021. The recommended retail price is 3,499 euros.
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