Brand Guides

Since 1946, Sony have built an outstanding reputation, supplying industry leading products across a multitude of countries and markets. The vast array of equipment that they currently manufacture makes use of the very latest in technological advancements, which subsequently attracts a broad range of professional users. The Sony Broadcast Equipment collection is renowned for its continual innovation and product development, which ensures that they're always at the cutting edge of all formats.

Sony Silver Service

Sony Silver Support Service also allows you to register any of your DVCAM, HDV, XDCAM EX and XDCAM HD equipment to benefit from their unique extra services including operational phone support, European collection and 7day repair turnaround.

Sony Differentiators

Sony XDCAM Camcorders sit squarely at the forefront of their latest innovations rapidly being adopted amongst industry professionals. Sony XDCAM brings several powerful tapeless production benefits. Using the Sony Proxy AV technology significantly enhances workflow efficiency, especially for browsing and editing. Recording onto either the PFD-23A or Dual Layer Professional Disc, or with the PMW-EX1/EX3 onto SxS flash media, a tapeless video production process is faster and vastly more flexible.

Latest Sony Broadcast Technology

Productions can further benefit from Sony's expertise in the field of on-set recording, transmitting and editing equipment. Professional Sony LCD Monitors offer a clear glimpse into the shot composition, and a realistic portrayal of how the image is being captured, out on set. Wireless camera transmitters and receivers offer greater freedom for a cameraperson to record free from the constraints of cabling and tapes; perfect for capturing live broadcasts. Models such as the Sony WLL-CA50 offer fantastic clarity and transmission range, particularly when coupled with a professional quality receiver such as the WLL-RX55.

Exceptional Sony Post-Production Equipment

Any industry professional will testify that capturing audio visual material is only half the battle in a video production. To ensure that the end product provides the necessary impact, you need a decent post-production setup. Transposing image to and from a tape or disc can be done via a Sony single or multi-format recorder. Sound and vision mixers allow you to edit and enhance your recordings either in the editing suite or on set. This is due to their portable size and exceptional onboard technology. A great selection of technical Sony editing equipment is available right here due to our status as authorised Sony Specialist Dealers.

Essential Professional Production Accessories

Sony also provide a fantastic range of premium video production accessories and peripherals - essential components to any broadcast. This includes a selection of lenses and spare camcorder batteries. Designed for use with the extensive range of Sony professional cameras, a good selection of quality lenses will help capture the perfect composition. Discs and tapes, which again cover the various formats (including Mini DV, Betacam SD and High Definition Digital Tape), are also in plentiful supply, featuring varying runtime for greater flexibility.

Sony HVR Ranges Explained

Sony's HVR range is focused on the recording and playback side of electronics. The camcorders in this range are all intended to be extremely user-friendly and diverse in their capabilities. Many of the camcorders are compatible with existing HDV equipment. Their HVR range of camcorders is particularly suited to professional standard video and sound recording.

Sony HVR Series Camcorders

The Sony HVR-A1E Camcorder is an affordable way to start experiencing professional high definition recording.With a vast range of features such as being able to switch between HDV, DVCAM and DV, and a built-in down converter, you can be as flexible as you like in your approach to shooting.

The HVR-Z5E Camcorder features a newly developed Sony 'G' lens with manual or auto focus, fast zoom and manual/auto iris control. It is also a hybrid camera that allows you to combine it with the optional HVR-MRC1K Recording Unit and record on to tape and Compact Flash Card at the same time or separately. This vastly improves the versatility of the camcorder, making archiving much more efficient. Compact Flash is also a very cost effective way to manage files.

Sony's HVR-Z7E is also compatible with the HVR-MRC1K Recording Unit, but has a range of new features too. It is the first HDV camcorder in Sony's range to feature an interchangeable 1/3" lens, meaning you can utilise a range of different lenses during shooting. To complement the possibilities this creates, the HVR-Z7E also features an Enhanced Image Processor System, allowing you to improve your end results with high resolution, high sensitivity and superb colour reproduction.

Sony HVR Video Tape Recorders

You can enjoy High Definition recording and playback on a standard DV format cassette with Sony's affordable HVR VTRs, as well as HDV1080i and DV/DVCAM .VTRs such as the HVR-M25AE are specifically designed to be integrated with the equipment you already own. A full range of connectivity is available, so that you don't have to change the way you work. The HVR-M35E VTR is compatible with a number of different formats, making it extra versatile and flexible for workflow whilst the HVR-1500A features HD-SDI Output with RS-422A Deck control.

HDD Camcorder Hard Disk

The Sony HVR-DR60 is a hard disk that can is compatible with many of the HVR camcorders, including the entire HVR-Z series. It is easily connected and can not only increase the amount of time you have to record, but allow you to record on to it whilst recording to tape too. This makes it ideal either as extra storage space or as a place to keep back-up information. It also is PC connectible and very light and compact, making it the perfect accompaniment to your collection of equipment.

Compatible & Outstanding Recording Equipment

One of the useful things about Sony's HVR range is that a lot of the products are designed to complement your existing set-up, as well as each other - compatibility is a key feature. The HVR range also gives you the very best in picture and sound recording technology. The emphasis on ease of use, coupled with extensive features, make this range the best you could ask for in terms of professional standard equipment with incredible results.

Optical technology specialists, Canon, hail from Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 1937, this forward-thinking company has forged a global reputation for creating cutting edge cameras and lenses. Their innovative technological advances have made their professional camcorders and associated broadcasting equipment some of the most popular products on sets throughout the world.

Professional Optical Technology from Canon

Canon professional camcorders are compact and extremely versatile. Their refined size and exceptional image capturing capabilities have made them a hugely popular choice for a diverse range of film productions in all corners of the world. From gonzo-style filmmakers to war reporters, and even some Hollywood movies, the flexibility of using a handheld camcorder complete with HD quality film and an impressive range of interchangeable lenses, makes Canon camcorders an essential part of many producers armoury.

Leading HD Cameras

The very latest models such as the Canon XH G1S and XH A1S provide the same image capture qualities of most large studio cameras, only in a more streamlined casing. It is this broadcast standard imaging that has ultimately led so many professional productions to use Canon technology. SD variants like the XL2 are also still on offer; however much of their popularity has been usurped by the increasing move towards high definition, which is once again an area that Canon are leading the way in with models such as the XL H1, XL H1A and XL H1S.

Specialist Optical Lenses

For the very best images though, you often need more than just a high quality camera. To capture high definition images at their awe-inspiring best, and thus making full use of the camcorders capabilities, what you really need is an exceptional lens. Each of the Canon professional lenses is purpose built to complement their camcorders, providing quality over and above that of the conventional lens each device is supplied with. With ½" super-wide angle lenses such as the Canon KH10ex3.6IRSE, a HD camera can achieve optimal image quality. The latest 2/3" HJ14x4.3B Lens is currently the Widest HD Lens available.

Even professional lenses can be more affordable though. Whether buying for a camera with ½", 1/3" or 2/3" lens, there are specialist variants to cover everything from standard shots to Tele lenses. The further up the range you go, the better the integrated features. These include optimised focusing capabilities and greater optical zoom. Whatever lens or lenses you choose in the professional Canon range, you can be sure that they will help lift the standard of your productions manifold above and beyond the already fantastic levels of the 'out the box' camcorder package.

Innovative Canon Technology

So for the best in contemporary camera technology it's hard to look beyond the leading name in optical technologies, Canon. Renowned throughout the sector for producing items of the very highest standards, whether just a small digital camera or a professional HD camcorder, their technology is often leagues ahead of their competitors. Never a company to rest on its laurels, Canon is one of the more innovative and pioneering equipment manufacturers. Their continued development in the optical industry has seen them remain at the forefront of camera and lens technology, a mantle they're unlikely to shift from any time soon.

Based in Yokohama, Japan and founded in 1927, JVC are an international electronics corporation renowned for introducing televisions to Japan and developing the VHS video format. Innovations and technological advances like these have helped to influence the way electronic technology has evolved. JVC's audio, video and broadcast products are sophisticated and deliver the highest in picture and sound quality. With an emphasis on the creative side of entertainment, they produce wide ranges of both consumer and professional products.

Colour Video & Flat Panel LCD Monitors

JVC's monitors are ideal for application in both the field and studio. The TM-1011G Monitor is compact in design and, with a carrying handle, easily portable. It is designed for rack mounting on any EIA 19" rack, and two monitors may even be mounted side by side, using an optional rack mount adapter like the RK-C101E. JVC's Flat Panel LCD Monitors like the DT-V20L3D and DT-V24L3D now incorporate wave form monitors and feature latency that has been reduced to less than a frame. The monitor sizes range from 9" all the way up to 65". Here at ProAV, we stock an array of corresponding rack mounts and monitor board options.

Camcorders & Studio Cameras

A range of camcorders for all budgets and applications are available from JVC. From the GY-HM100 3-CCD Solid State Camcorder - one of the smallest professional camcorders available - to the shoulder mounted camera GY-HM700 that record in both 720P/1080i and 1080P. JVC's shoulder mounted cameras are ergonomically designed and balanced to prevent fatigue during use. The GY-HM700 and GY-HM100 allow you to record scaleable resolutions from 19mbps to 35mbps onto cost effective SDHC Media cards that allow for fast ingestion into Final Cut Pro as a Quicktime .mov file.

The JVC KY-F560E Studio Camera has remote camera control and delivers outstanding, high quality images, making it perfect for industrial, broadcast and even medical applications.

Studio Adapters & Add-ons

JVC's studio adapters are ideal for converting some of their camcorders into studio cameras. They feature all of the necessary signals, and can handle camera functions via remote control.

JVC Creative Entertainment

JVC's range of audio and visual broadcast equipment is specifically designed with creativity in mind. Their products aim to give you the best user experience possible. Your projects are in safe hands with JVC's outstanding range of professional recording products.

Electrical giants, Panasonic, have been manufacturing cutting edge products from their base in Osaka, Japan since 1918. Initially developing lamps and other specialist lighting items, their range of expertise has gradually diversified to integrate everything from hi-fis to professional camcorders. Today, they are one of, if not the biggest, worldwide electronics brands and certainly leading the Japanese industry.

Great Quality Panasonic Audio Visual Equipment

Panasonic's audio-visual expertise has afforded them the opportunity to branch out into many of the more complex areas of professional video production equipment. Their current range provides some of the most technically advanced products currently available; which has ultimately led to many film productions relying on Panasonic lenses, camcorders and editing technology for their recording and post-production set-up.

Professional Standard Panasonic Camcorders

The extensive range of professional camcorders from Panasonic covers the full-breadth of modern recording technology. Incorporating HD, SD Card, AVCHD, Mini DV and even their own unique P2 Solid State platform, their cameras are renowned for superb quality and versatility across the range. From smaller handheld devices such as the Panasonic AG-HPX171 or AG-HMC151 right up to top-of-the-range professional broadcasting camcorders such as the AJ-HPX3000 P2 or AJ-HDX900 DVCPRO HD, there is a consistent level of quality and cutting edge technology that sets them apart from rival brands and products.

Convertible & Pan-Tilt Cameras

For specialist productions, you may require something a little more compact and versatile. Panasonic's convertible cameras provide a foundation for an integrated device composed of a number of different facets. With replaceable feature cards, ordinarily 3CCD, they can be connected to a plethora of studio technology for optimum output. Pan-tilt cameras are remotely controlled devices that provide smooth panning shots covering numerous angles. Extremely compact and available in both an indoor and outdoor format, Panasonic's pan-tilt cameras produce fantastic image quality, many even up to HD levels, allowing for fantastic roaming shots without the need for a cameraperson. It is this remote quality that makes it particularly popular for broadcasting in inaccessible places outdoors or in areas where a human presence might be detrimental.

Panasonic Digital Recording Media

As innovators in the field of camcorder design, Panasonic have invariably developed an advanced range of media with which to record and capture the fantastic images produced on camera. Leading the way in this field is their very own P2 format. These solid state memory cards have been produced by Panasonic and are used exclusively in their camcorder range. With increased durability, greater resistance to shock and capacities now reaching 64GB, they are a fantastic recording format for location shoots. The data is easily transferable too; recorded in digital HD quality, users can upload shots quickly through a standard computer with the relevant card reader. Panasonic also produce DVCPRO tapes in both mini and large sizes for use with their cameras.

Post-Production Equipment & Accessories

There is a lot of associated technology in any film process. When a shoot moves into the post-production stages you need to ensure that you have the tools to edit the material effectively. Audio visual mixers and multi-format recorders, which convert the content captured on tape into a digital format, are just two of the areas where Panasonic have successfully applied their technological know-how. During production, spare batteries and a range of specialist lenses - including wide angle lenses - can help ensure an uninterrupted filming schedule; both areas are again expertly covered within the Panasonic range.

Operational since 1944, Fujinon is a division of the Fujifilm Corporation, focusing specifically on optical lenses. Fujifilm had, at this point, already been around for 10 years and was expanding into new heights. Today they are giants in the film industry - the world's largest photographic and imaging company. Fujinon was committed to, through extensive research, developing the best possible optical lenses and the most superior performance and service to the user. The numerous awards they have received over the years and the scope that they now cover - photographic, medical, TV and video markets all feature Fujinon optical lenses heavily - are testament to their outstanding proficiency.

Versatile Range of Lenses

With over sixty years of experience behind them, Fujinon's lenses today harbour an array of application possibilities and innovative technology. With a comprehensive range available to you on ProAv, we're confident you'll find the lens that suits your task. Fujinon's S17x6.6 Professional Lens is 1/2" and the widest in the professional range. Their professional lenses are robust and feature high quality optics. Broadcast lenses such as the A18x7.6 also feature excellent optics optimisation - as a result of Fujinon's exclusive GO Technology - but, with their range of features, are tailored more towards providing production flexibility and versatility for broadcast news applications. Fujinon's HD lenses also cater to expanding HD technology, ensuring that their lenses continue to match the improved technology and increased scanning lines new camera systems are capable of producing.

GO Technology

GO Technology is exclusive to Fujinon and is an innovative technology that puts them miles ahead of their competitors. Lenses fitted with GO Technology can optimise all of the lens' optical features, vastly improving them overall. When compared to lenses without the technology, the results speak for themselves - there is at least a 20% improvement. GO Technology allows you to use Fujinon lenses with the confidence that you are making your hard work worth the effort.

Lens Adapters & Converters

Making lenses interchangeable and further increasing the versatility of the technology available is something that Fujinon strive to achieve. This is evident in their lens adapters. You can convert a 1/3" lens into a 1/2" or 2/3" lens with Fujinon's ACM lens converters. These are well constructed and compatible with both broadcast and professional lenses, giving you ever more freedom to expand your creative options.

Fujinon Lenses

Fujinon's optical lenses are used the world over by a number of professionals and consumers in a number of different fields. Photographic, medical, TV and video markets all use Fujinon lenses extensively. Designed to give you the very best in focusing and zoom technology, amongst an array of other results-driven characteristics, you will wonder how you survived without them. Fujinon make it their commitment to ensure they live up to their world class name, and the range of lenses available today is completely up to date with the latest innovative design solutions.

Professional Lenses

The hand-held lenses in the S17x range from Fujinon are all fitted with high quality optics and feature inner focusing too. Fujinon's professional lenses come with Electron Beam Coating - a technology that reduces flare and ghosting whilst also enhancing contrast. The key quality of these lenses is that they are designed to be exceedingly user-friendly, with their lightweight but compact and robust build. Your creative options are therefore heightened. The S13x4.6 Wide Power Lens is amongst the best in the professional range. With the highest zoom ratio and widest angle of view, you really cannot get much better for your camera system.

HD Lenses

HD technology uses an aspect ratio of 16:9 and an increased density of scanning lines. Associated lenses, consequently, need to be of a much higher performance than SD lenses, to keep up with this new technology. SD technology has an aspect ratio of 4:3, which is not enough. Fortunately though, HD lenses do also enhance SD camera systems. Fujinon HD lenses such as the HAs18X7.6 feature quick zoom and an 18x Zoom ratio, as well as the Fujinon standard inner focusing.

Broadcast Lenses

Fujinon's A22x7.8 broadcast lens is a revolutionary lens that works with Fujinon's innovative GO Technology to optimise optical performance. It has a high zoom ratio of 22x and features ten different zoom modes. User-friendly in their nature, Fujinon's broadcast lenses are specifically designed with the convenience of the user in mind. Broadcast lenses such as the A42x9.7 provide special resistance against the elements - ideal for working in the field. A heightened magnification of the lenses can cause unwanted vibration from the wind, but Fujinon's OS Tech image stabilisation can reduce this significantly.