BBC Gives Panasonic's HPX250 The Nod

Panasonic’s newest camera has been received positively by the industry with the BBC approving the equipment for HD production.
Panasonic’s AG-HPX250 P2 camcorder is now BBC approved for HD production and it is named in the HD Handheld category, a list that comprises only five cameras. Of these, the HPX250 is one of three that are authorised for on-board capture, rather than depending on an external recorder.
Weighing only 2.5 kg and designed to be highly portable, the diminutive HPX250 packs advanced features into its body: its 1/3" sensor captures full 1920 x 1080 10 bit 4:2:2 video, recording to the AVC-Intra codec up-to 100 Mb/s on Panasonic P2 cards. Other features include variable shutter speed from 1/6 to 1/2000 seconds and a sharp 22x zoom lens.
Commenting on the news, Richard Payne, Technical Development Manager of Holdan - Panasonic's distributor - said: "For news gathering and documentary work, the HPX250's long lens and low light performance will be a great asset. Its over- and under-cranking versatility and native 24p shooting mode will also make it an effective tool for creative producers."
At around £4,500, and with no need for expenditure on additional recording devices, the HPX250 represents excellent value. As a hand-held camera, it is the most affordable route to producing HD to the technical standard required by the BBC.
The AG-HPX250 is now available from resellers.
(LB)