Panasonic AG-CX18 Compact 4K Camcorder

Overview
The AG-CX20 and AG-CX18 models camcorders feature state-of-the-art optical technology, in addition to a lightweight and compact chassis design that delivers increased mobility, and high-quality video production. They offer a wide-angle zoom lens for precise shooting, superior optical performance, and Optical and Electric Image Stabilisation to correct camera shake through five axes, providing stability and tracking performance when shooting in both 4K and FHD.

Panasonics CX20 supports IP-based video streaming through the SRT protocol, NDI® HX2 IP connectivity, and RTMP for live streaming to social media platforms. The compact design of all four models enables heat dispersion and increased reliability, with features such as a handle unit with XLR audio input, LED light, and support for multiple bit rates and formats, making them versatile and user-friendly for various shooting requirements.

About the Panasonic AG-CX18 Compact 4K Camcorder
The AG-CX20 and AG-CX18 models camcorders feature state-of-the-art optical technology, in addition to a lightweight and compact chassis design that delivers increased mobility, and high-quality video production.

Wide angle zoom lens for precise shooting
The camcorders offer superior optical performance thanks to a powerful integrated 25mm[1] wide angle to 600mm[2] telephoto zoom lens, with 24x optical zoom. They feature a 4-Drive Lens System that operates each lens group independently, in addition to two manual focus rings.

All four cameras feature both Optical and Electric Image Stabilisation to detect and correct any unwanted camera shake through five axes, including rotational blurring. This is especially useful when shooting subjects from very high and low angles. All models provide superior focusing speed, stability, and tracking performance when shooting in both 4K and FHD, thanks to the Face Detection AF/AE feature that provides precise focusing and exposure for subjects.

[1] 35mm camera equivalent.
[2] AG-CX20 only.

IP-based video for seamless streaming
The high-end CX20 model will support full-HD live streaming through the next-generation, IP-based SRT protocol[1], with the CX20 and CX18 delivering simultaneous SDI/HDMI outputs. Panasonic’s CX20 also supports NDI®* HX2 IP connectivity for high-quality, low-latency live streaming in a network environment, without the need for external converters. Both the CX20 and CX18 support Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP)[2], allowing content to be streamed live directly to social media platforms and video sharing sites, such as YouTube.

[1] To be added by firmware update.
[2] Supported protocols: RTSP/RTP/RTMP/RTMPS.

Listening to the needs of the industry
Panasonic’s intimate knowledge of what directors and cinematographers require from high-performance camcorders when shooting on location have been reflected within the improvements made to all four models, further increasing usability and functionality.

Compact design for superior mobility
The unique design of all four models enables heat to be dispersed from the front panel thanks to a slimline fan. This increases reliability and enables the body to be as small as possible. The CX20 and CX18 include Panasonic’s VW-HU1 handle unit, featuring a two-channel XLR audio input and control, and bright, adjustable LED light for shooting in low light conditions. Users can also easily operate lens zoom from the handle unit.[1]

All four camcorders support multiple bit rates and formats for a variety of requirements. When configured for 10 bit recording with an HDMI output, all models deliver 4K 60p 4:2:2 output with an external recorder. All camcorders support the MOV, MP4 and AVCHD formats, whilst the CX20 supports the P2 MXF workflow.

[1] Available as an optional extra on the X1600 only.

High-sensitivity 1/2.5-type MOS sensor
Handles large 4K data at 60fps/50fps with high-speed readout, minimizing rolling shutter distortion when capturing moving subjects.

Wide-angle 25mm lens with 24x optical zoom
4-drive lens system supports 24x optical zoom, ranging from a wide-angle 25mm (35mm film equivalent) to a telephoto 600mm. i.ZOOM technology enabling up to 32x zoom in 4K and 48x in Full HD provides exceptional flexibility for shooting even in confined spaces.

4K High-precision Autofocus
Optimized for dynamic shooting conditions on location, this autofocus system prioritizes speed and tracking accuracy. The Micro-drive Focus unit ensures precise lens control for fast, smooth focusing. Sharp focus is reliably maintained even when subjects move from background to foreground..

Face Detection and Tracking AE/AF
Advanced Face Detection AE/AF automatically identifies and tracks human faces. Also, specific colours can be selected on the 3.5-inch touch LCD to enable Tracking AE/AF to follow people and other moving objects with increased accuracy.

5-axis Hybrid Stabilization
Five-axis Hybrid Stabilization corrects for camera shake in five axes: vertical, horizontal, and rotational. Using a gyro sensor that detects motion at 4,000 times per second, the stabilization engine delivers fast corrections. Combining optical and electronic stabilization, it ensures stable video when zooming in at high magnification and also when walking or shooting in low light.

Ball O.I.S
A ball-bearing mechanism reduces friction when the lens system drive unit operates. The lens moves smoothly when zooming and delicately compensates for shake caused by small vibrations.

Built-in ND Filter
The built-in ND filter (1/4, 1/16, 1/64, CLEAR) adjusts incoming light levels to suit the shooting environment. The filter can be used to prevent resolution loss caused by excessive aperture reduction (diffraction) and supports a wide aperture for sharp images with a shallow depth of field.

Efficient Heat Dissipation
The image sensor typically heats up significantly as it collects external light through the lens, and its temperature rises further during high-speed 4K/60p signal processing, so an advanced, highly efficient heat dissipation design is employed to maintain stable performance under such conditions.

Venus Engine
The Venus Engine features a new image processing system capable of rapidly handling large 4K/60p datasets for exceptional image quality. It also offers advanced image correction features to enhance creative video production. Internal recording supports resolutions up to 4K 29.97p and Full HD 59.94p in 4:2:2 10-bit.

HEVC 4:2:0 10-bit Recording
Using the highly efficient new HEVC codec, the camcorder supports high-bitrate recording, including: 200 Mbps LongGOP (59.94p, 4:2:0 10-bit, MOV), 150 Mbps LongGOP (29.97p, 4:2:0 10-bit, MOV), 100 Mbps LongGOP (59.94p, 4:2:0 10-bit, MOV/MP4), and 72 Mbps LongGOP (29.97p, 4:2:0 10-bit, MP4).

4:2:2 10-bit Internal Recording / HDMI Output
Internal recording on SD cards supports 4:2:2 10-bit LongGOP UHD 29.97p/25p (150 Mbps) and Full HD 59.94p/50p (100 Mbps). Enabling 10-bit recording activates 4K/60p 4:2:2 10-bit HDMI output, ideal for capturing high-quality video from external recorders.

Advanced File Management with MOV File System
Using the same system as Panasonic’s AG-CX350, this camcorder automatically generates 20-character filenames for simplified clip management. It also maintains compatibility with traditional AVCHD recording formats.

Super Slow-motion Shooting
ICapture slow-motion video in Full HD mode at 120fps (59.94Hz) or 100fps (50Hz). The system supports 10-bit recording and delivers full-frame images without cropping, even at high frame rates. Autofocus remains active during super slow-motion shooting.

Infrared (IR) Shooting
The IR cut filter can be toggled ON/OFF and assigned to a user button. Disabling the filter allows shooting in low-light conditions using commercially available IR illuminators (recommended: 850nm IR illuminator).

Enhanced Skin Tones
The Skin Detail function refines skin tones for a softer and more natural appearance, which is especially beneficial for close-up shots.

Edge Enhancement
Master Detail makes it possible to fine tune the edge sharpness of entire images.

Flexible Gamma
Select from eight gamma modes, including CINE-LIKE developed with Panasonic’s expertise in VARICAM cinema cameras and FILM-LIKE for film-like gradation. The various modes offer a wide range of cinematic expression.

Customizable Scenes
Shooting can be tailors to specific conditions using six professional-grade presets: Standard, Fluorescent Lighting, Spark, Still-like, Cinema-like with contrast, and Cinema-like with dynamic range. Settings can be customized and saved in the camcorder for future use.

Save and Share Camera Settings
Shooting can be tailors to specific conditions using six professional-grade presets: Standard, Fluorescent Lighting, Spark, Still-like, Cinema-like with contrast, and Cinema-like with dynamic range. Settings can be customized and saved in the camcorder for future use.

High-definition LCD and OLED EVF
The 3.5-inch, 2.76-million-dot LCD monitor with touch functionality features an RGB pixel structure for excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. The 0.39-inch OLED viewfinder (1.77 million dots) has a tilt design and a large eyecup for added comfort. Both displays can operate simultaneously, allowing continuous monitoring on the LCD when stepping away from the EVF.

Selfie Mode
The LCD monitor rotates 180 degrees and displays touch icons for convenient operation, making it easy to check framing and expressions while shooting.

Dual Manual Rings
Two manual rings are included: one for focus adjustment and the other for zoom and iris control. The rings are different sizes and are located on the front and rear of the lens assembly, allowing them to be easily distinguished by touch.

Dual SD Card Slots
The camcorder uses compact SD cards with two available slots. For 4K recording, it enables relay and backup recording. For Full HD recording, slot 1 records specific scenes while slot 2 records continuously. This design reduces the risk of data loss when changing cards as well as ensures consistent recording.

Built-In LED Light
The built-in LED light provides 70 lux at a distance of 1 meter for effective illumination in low-light environments. Brightness can be adjusted from 30% to 100% using the dimmer dial on the handle.

24-bit Linear PCM Audio Recording
The camcorder supports professional audio recording with +48V phantom power, MIC and LINE inputs. It has two XLR inputs and manual volume controls, enabling 24-bit PCM audio recording with a professional microphone.

Detachable Handle
The handle unit can be easily attached/detached to suit shooting needs. It includes a REC button, zoom lever, dual XLR audio inputs and LED light. This setup is perfect for professional audio recording with professional microphones.

Customizable User Buttons
The camcorder has 13 user-assignable buttons: 6 on the body and 7 on the LCD touch panel. Up to 46 functions can be assigned, and the OIS and AE LEVEL buttons can also be customized.

Built-in Wi-Fi
The camcorder is equipped with a built-in 5 GHz/2.4 GHz Wi-Fi module, enabling wireless connectivity without the need for additional LAN modules.

Wired Remote Support
A REMOTE terminal (2.5 mm super mini jack) provides wired remote control for operations such as focus, zoom, and recording start/stop.

Full HD Streaming and Recording
Use SRT, RTSP/RTP, RTMP or RTMPS protocols to stream Full HD video, including concerts, sporting events or breaking news, directly to platforms such as Facebook and YouTube. The camcorder also supports simultaneous recording to an SD card (Full HD or lower modes) during live streaming.

Wide-Angle 25mm*1 Lens and 24x Optical Zoom
Supports SRT*2, NDI®* HX2*2, RTMP
High-Quality Recording with Versatile Modes
Compact, lightweight with OLED viewfinder and handle
Double SD Card Slot Meets Recording Needs