SECAUCUS, NJ — Panasonic (www.panasonic.com/broadcast) will deliver its new AG-HPX250 camcorder later this month. The AG-HPX250 is the first P2 HD handheld camcorder with 10-bit, 4:2:2 independent-frame, full 1920 x 1080 resolution AVC-Intra recording. It will be priced at $5,995.

Weighing 5.5 pounds, the HPX250 incorporates high-sensitivity 1/3-inch, full-HD 2.2 megapixel 3-MOS imagers and a 20-bit digital signal processor, allowing it to acquire native 1920 x 1080 resolution images. 

Variable frame rate capabilities include 1080p up to 30fps (17 steps) and 720p up to 60fps (25 steps) for undercranking/overcranking, allowing users to create fast or slow-motion effects. In addition to AVC-Intra 100/50 recording, the HPX250 records in DVCPRO HD, as well as standard definition in DVCPRO50, DVCPRO and DV. Additional formats include 1080/59.94i, 29.97pN, 23.98pN and 720p at 23.98pN.
 
A Genlock/timecode input allows for multi-camera operation. Further connectivity includes HD-SDI output, an HDMI output, and an IEEE 1394 in/out. A Dynamic Range Stretch function can help compensate for variations in lighting. A waveform monitor and vectorscope display are also included as are two focus assist functions.