Panasonic AG-CX20 4K 3G-SDI/HDMI - Live Streaming options

• 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

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.
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.

The AG-CX20 is a lightweight memory card camcorder, weighing approximately 850 g*1, that offers broadcast-quality imaging and exceptional portability. It supports extended 4K/60p recording, making it ideal for long-duration shoots. With a wide-angle 25 mm lens (35 mm film equivalent) and 24x optical zoom, it delivers high-quality video capture under a wide range of shooting conditions. Advanced features such as 4K High-precision AF and face detection/tracking AE & AF provide reliable support for smooth operation even in dynamic, fast-paced shooting environments.

The camcorder supports the broadcast-standard P2HD (MXF) file format, enabling simultaneous recording of main video with the AVC-Intra/AVC-LongG codec and proxy video with the AVC-Proxy G6 codec. It features internal 4:2:2 10-bit video recording and uses the High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) codec for efficient video compression. The AG-CX20 built-in wireless function can also perform HD live streaming by connecting to Wi-Fi*2.

The AG-CX20 brings innovation to the forefront of program production with its advanced features for on-site shoots and interviews, coupled with uncompromising video quality.

• *1: main unit only, excluding handle unit, lens hood, battery and eye cup.
• *2: Wi-Fi® is a registered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance®.

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 colors 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).

Multi-format Support
 

The camcorder supports a variety of formats and bitrates, including MOV and MP4 for streamlined editing workflows, as well as 720p AVCHD 8 Mbps (PM mode).

The camcorder supports a variety of formats and bitrates, including MOV and MP4 for streamlined editing workflows, as well as 720p AVCHD 8 Mbps (PM mode).

Proxy Recording Support

Proxy recording is possible with the AVC-Proxy G6 codec.

Proxy Recording Format

• * Proxy recording is not supported for file formats such as MOV, MP4, AVCHD, or AVC-LongG12.

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).

16-axis Color Correction

The color phase can be divided into 16 axes for independent adjustment, making it ideal for multi-camera color matching and creative enhancements.

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.

Additional Shooting Assistance

• Flash band compensation (FBC)
• Shockless auto white balance
• Customizable matrix tables, including CINE-LIKE mode
• V-detail and detail coring
• Chroma level/phase, color temperature, and master pedestal controls
• Knee point configuration

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.

The dual codec feature allows main and sub formats to be recorded simultaneously in different slots.

Slot 2 is used for continuous recording, while slot 1 can be used to record selected scenes by toggling REC ON/OFF.

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.
 

Recording Time

Additional Recording Features

Pre-REC:

Always caches video and audio data before recording begins: up to 10 seconds for AVCHD and FHD MOV/MP4 formats, up to 5 seconds for UHD MOV/MP4 formats, and up to 3 seconds for P2 formats. This allows critical moments to be captured even for delayed recording.

Interval Recording:

Eight interval settings, from 1 second to 10 minutes, are provided for time-lapse recording.

Timestamp:

Allows date and time stamps to be embedded directly into recorded video.

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.

USB Power Delivery (PD) Support

The USB-C port enables power supply and charging with a mobile battery when the power is turned off.

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.

Wireless Control via Mobile Devices

The camcorder can be controlled wirelessly using the HC ROP tablet/smartphone app, available for free at the App Store and Google Play.*1 The app allows management of zoom, focus, camera settings, image adjustments, recording start/stop, and menu configurations. It also supports switching control between up to eight cameras.*2

• *1: iPad/iPhone: iOS 11 or later required. Android devices: Android 6.0 or later required.
• *2: Simultaneous or synchronized control of multiple cameras is not supported. Also, switching between cameras may take a few seconds.

App Store and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

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.

• * A verified, commercially available wired remote control is required. See section on related equipment for details on verified third-party remote controls.

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.

• * requires firmware update
• * For the purpose of compliance with RED DELEGATED REGULATION (EU) 2022/30, a streaming functionality with RTP/RTSP/RTMP will no longer be provided around summer 2025 onward.

3G-SDI Output

The 3G-SDI output terminal (BNC connector, 5CFB) can be used to transmit FHD 1080/60p, 1080/50p signals through a coaxial cable over a distance of up to 100m.Output of UHD 4:2:2 10-bit via HDMI and FHD 4:2:2 10-bit via SDI enable a variety of uses.
When used with a Panasonic recorder with SDI input, recording can be started and stopped from the AG-CX20.

NDI HX2 Support

NDI HX2 compatibility enables IP-based data transfer and camera control without external converters. Combine with Panasonic AV-UHS500 live switcher and NDI HX2-compatible PTZ cameras for a seamless live streaming setup.

• For detailed product information on Panasonic's live switcher, please visit the AV-UHS500 page.
• For detailed product information on NDI HX2-compatible PTZ cameras, please visit here.

• * NDI® is a video connectivity technology and is registered as a trademark by Vizrt NDI AB in the United States and other countries.

Ethernet Support

A LAN connection ensures stable live streaming in areas where Wi-Fi may be unreliable.

• * Requires USB adapter and USB-to-Ethernet adapter (sold separately)

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• *1:Weight and dimensions shown are approximate.
• *2:microP2 cards are discontinued.
• *3:24 bit/16 bit switch by menu.
• *4:For the purpose of compliance with RED DELEGATED REGULATION (EU) 2022/30, a streaming functionality with RTP/RTSP/RTMP will no longer be provided around summer 2025 onward.
• *5:The analog control remote controller used with previous Panasonic models may not be used with this device.