NEWS: Panasonic introduces LUMIX S5IIX and LUMIX S5II

Panasonic has announced 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.

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.

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 backlit situations and, once locked on, will remain tracking them even with other moving objects in the frame. Continuous AF during zooming and AF micro adjustment are also available.

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 times* 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.

*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].

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% compared to the LUMIX S5, Active I.S. is especially effective in traditionally challenging conditions for handheld shooting, such as using telephoto lenses or filming while walking.

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 60p video 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.

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-resistant 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 5GHz 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.

LUMIX S5II & S5IIX | New Products Launch

Add yourself to the waiting list(s) for either, or both, HERE.