Sony/Panavision SRW-1 & SSR-1

“The Sony HDCAM SR recording system is capable of 4:4:4 or 4:2:2 extremely low compression recording,” explains Panavision Remote’s Vice President Any Romanoff. “It is a transportable, well understood method for recording digital images.

“Panavision Genesis and Sony F23 cameras use the SRW-1 field recorder mounting it directly to the camera to create a seamless one-piece package that sends camera information directly to the recorder. Because of this built-in interface, frame rate or other changes by the camera are understood and properly acted on by the recorder.

“As a simple explanation, clicking the run switch on the camera turns the recorder on directly as opposed to systems with separate recorders where someone has to call or radio a ‘roll tape’ command and wait for a return call of ‘speed’ before proceeding.”

Band Pro Film and Digital’s Jeff Cree points out, “One additional feature added when using the SRW-1 in a docked configuration is the ability to ramp. The Genesis provides 1-50 fps capability while the F23 works from 1-60 fps.”

In October of 2007, Panavision introduced the SSR-1 (Solid State recorder), a fully uncompressed 4:4:4 recording system for the Genesis and F23. The SSR-1 offers 20 minutes of 4:4:4 recording and 40 minutes at 4:2:2. “In addition to all the features of an SRW-1, the SSR-1 also provides instant on-camera playback, a built-in down converted output and it can record dual 4:2:2 for VFX work,”explains Romanoff.

“Like the SRW-1, the SSR-1 attaches directly to the camera, either top or rear mounted. When docked, it understands and acts directly on any changes in camera status. The SSR-1 weighs only about six pounds and uses significantly less power than the SRW-1.

“Combined camera and recorder power consumption is low enough that the entire system will from on-board batteries for completely cable free handheld operation.

“Designed to minimize weight and bulk for Steadicam and handheld operation, the SSR-1 also offers fully uncompressed 4:4:$ recording for visual effects work.

“It is the first and only onboard recording system for production that gives you both uncompressed recording and full camera functionality.”