At the CES technology fair in Las Vegas, Panasonic presented the two new cameras Lumix DC-S5II and DC-S5IIX for the L bayonet. Both models are very similar in terms of technical data, so they should be based on the same hardware.
The biggest innovation is a full-frame 24-megapixel sensor that now also supports phase-detection autofocus (PDAF). The previous method of contrast-based autofocus – which almost every modern sensor masters – is still used, so Panasonic speaks of a “phase hybrid autofocus”. A total of 779 measuring points should result. There is no information yet on the number of zones and any cross sensors. The sensor is stabilized in two modes, which offers a maximum of 6.5 stops of wobble.
According to Panasonic, the system, which was developed together with Leica in the L2 Alliance, should also be able to track moving objects well in adverse lighting conditions. A continuous autofocus (AF-C) should also allow fine adjustments to the sharpness and not be confused by objects that have just come into the picture. For some lenses with L-mount, a firmware update is required for this AF-C. The maximum sensitivity is ISO 51,200, which can be extended to 204,800.
Raw HDMI on X model only
Probably in order to produce little noise, the resolution of both cameras is only 6000×4000 pixels. This also means that filming is only possible in 6K, but not in 8K. When it comes to moving images, the only differences are between the S5II and S5IIX. Only the “X” can also output raw images via HDMI and record to SSDs via USB and store Apple Pro-Res internally. This raises the suspicion that Panasonic only differentiates the cameras via the software. There should be a paid update for the S5II that only upgrades the raw output.
For most applications, 4K recording with 4:2:2, which both models offer for internal recording, should make more sense than 6K, which is only sampled here with 4:2:0. They also master streaming output via USB, which is implemented in version C (3.2 Gen 2), so they replace a webcam. The HDMI port is also designed in the large version A, which is common for AV devices, so that no special cables or adapters are required. The camera’s battery can also be charged via USB, and WLAN is available with 2.4 and 5 GHz according to the previously unspecified standard. how DPreview reportsthe cameras have a fan, which should ensure unlimited video recording – an external microphone is then mandatory, but there is an analog input and a headphone jack.
Available from the end of January
It is stored on two SD cards that are supported up to UHS-II. This enables fixed serial picture recordings. Up to 9 photos per second are possible with the mechanical shutter, and 30 when using the electronic shutter. According to Panasonic, the buffer is sufficient for 300 images, after which the speed of the memory card is required. The display is a 3-inch foldable and swiveling touchscreen with 1.8 million pixels.
Both cameras should be available in the last week of January 2023, they are easy to distinguish from the outside: the logos of the S5IIX, also known as the “Black Edition”, are also darkened. According to the RRP, this body costs 2499 euros, the S5II with less video functions 2199 euros. The Lumix S 20-60mm / F3.5-5.6 kit lens is available for 300 euros more. Both housings are protected against dust and splash water, and according to Panasonic they also work at an outside temperature of 40 degrees.
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