Sony have jam-packed their latest Super 35 4K FS7 with so many features and functionality that it’s getting difficult to keep track. Ever since its announcement at IBC 2014 in Amsterdam, we’ve known the camera will eventually get a free 4K DCI (4096 x 2160) recording option via a free firmware update in early 2015. Well, the time has come and as BVE 2015 in London is in full swing, Sony managed to announce firmware update 2.0 for the Sony PXW-FS7 and the XDCA-FS7 extension to be released in March 2015.
   

Firmware update 2.0 will also enable 4 channel 24-bit 48 KHz audio recording on the FS7, as well as address some major issues reported by users such as fixing the “magenta cast” issue in WB preset mode. The firmware update will also allow FS7 shooters to record ProRes HQ & 422 in 1080p internally on XQD cards (requires the XDCA-FS7 extension unit).

See all details of the upcoming firmware from Sony update below.

PXW-FS7 Firmware V2.0

Upgrade is free of charge and will be available March 2015

PXW-FS7 Firmware Update 2.0 Release Notes

New Features & Improvements:

Support for 4K (4096×2160) XAVC-I Recording
The FS7 now supports XAVC-I 4K (4096 x 2160) recording, a capability that opens up new possibilities not only for the production of documentaries and programs, but also for a wide range of professional applications. The corresponding frame rates and bit rates are listed below.

Support for ProRes Recording
The FS7 now supports ProRes recording* (ProRes 422 HQ and ProRes 422)**, providing an easy-to-use environment for those accustomed to the ProRes workflow. The corresponding frame rates are listed below.

* ProRes recording requires attachment of the optional XDCA-FS7 extension unit and a compatible optional power supply (BP-FL75 V-mount battery, etc.)
** This function does not support simultaneous recording, S&Q recording, Picture Cache Rec or other special shooting functions.

Support for 4-channel Audio Input and Recording
The FS7 supports 4-channel audio input. In applications such as an interview, this function enables the simultaneous use of an external microphone for recording ambient sounds, the built-in microphone for voice memos by the operator, and two optional UWP Series wireless microphones for voice of interviewer and interviewee.

In addition, the use of optional XLR adapter XLR-K1M or XLR-K2M provides additional 2 XLR inputs to further expand the range of possible applications.