NAB 2014: AJA previews 4K production camera
April 7, 2014

NAB 2014: AJA previews 4K production camera

LAS VEGAS — At the NAB show, AJA Video Systems (www.aja.com) introduced CION, a new production camera that’s capable of shooting at 4K/UltraHD and 2K/HD resolutions. The CION offer in-camera recording directly to the Apple ProRes family of codecs - including 12-bit 444, and the ability to output 4K raw data at up to 120fps via four 3G-SDI outputs. CION can record directly to AJA Pak SSD media at up to 60fps.  

According to AJA president Nick Rashby, the CION has been in development for several years. It embraces a familiar and tested camera form and ergonomic layout. A built-in shoulder mount and standard connectors are where camera operators would traditionally expect them to be. CION features a PL lens mount for compatibility with industry-standard lenses. When recording in HD or 2K, the image is oversampled from the full 4K sensor, retaining focal length as well as providing a vibrant and detailed image. A built-in filter combines an optical low pass filter (OLPF) to eliminate unwanted aliasing and moiré with an infrared (IR) cut filter to produce appropriate colors. Additionally, a back focus adjustment means the sharpest image possible can be produced.

Recording formats and resolutions that CION can record to include Apple ProRes 4444, Apple ProRes 422 (HQ), Apple ProRes 422, ProRes 422 (LT) and Apple ProRes (Proxy); 4K (4096x2160), Ultra HD (3840x2160), 2K (2048x1080), HD (1920x1080). 2K and HD are hardware scaled from the full 4K sensor for high-quality over-sampled images and retention of field-of-view.

Footage is recorded to AJA Pak SSD media, which is available in 256GB and 512GB capacities. Transfer can take place via Thunderbolt or USB3 with the optional AJA Pak Dock. User can output Raw footage via 3G-SDI at up to 4K 120fps, or via Thunderbolt at up to 4K 30 fps.
AJA plans to deliver CION this summer for $8,995.