The AG-HPX170 is an ultra-mobile P2 HD handheld camcorder featuring full, 4:2:2 independent frame production quality HD and solid-state recording. Based on the AG-HVX200 series, the lighter HPX170 is fully solid state (no DV mechanism), and comes with a host of enhancements including a new 1/3" progressive 3-CCD imager system, wider Leica Dicomar 13X lens, an HD-SDI interface, metadata input and management, and a 5-year limited warranty (with registration).

The HPX170 has two P2 card slots and records in 20 HD and SD formats - from 1080i, 1080p, 720p to 480i. Its newly enhanced 1/3" progressive 16:9 3-CCD imager delivers an excellent signal-to-noise ratio, lower noise/smear, and exceptional low-light performance. High-end features like Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS) which allows for better control over highlights and shadows in run and gun situations. The digital signal processor with 14-bit A/D conversion and 19-bit processing assure high-quality recordings necessary for top-level production and broadcast. Because the HPX170 scans the initial image at a 1080p/60 and all camera processing happens at his level. Because of this images maintain the highest quality possible up to the final conversion for compression and recording.

The HPX170 is ideal for professionals looking to take full advantage of the reliability and flexibility of the fast, file-based P2 workflow. P2 HD products have no moving parts, unlike tape, hard disk drive, or disc-based systems. It provides instant random access to recorded HD or SD content; and operates reliably in harsh environments, with resistance to temperature extremes, shock and vibration.

Features:

HD/SD-SDI output for serial digital playout or live output of uncompressed audio/video signals
Enhanced metadata management feature saves details, like names or titles, onto the recorded clip
Additional Neutral Density filters, 1/4, 1/16, 1/64
20 variable frame rate steps include: 12, 15, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 40, 44, 48, 54, 60
Built-in waveform monitor and vectorscope as well as three advanced focus assist functions (2X center zoom, histogram and focus bar display)
Dynamic Range Stretch in 60i/60p HD replaces News Gamma
Enhanced user buttons that allow you to delete the last clip, pre-record, select P2 card slots or go into variable frame rates with the touch of the button
6-pin Firewire with locking connection (no power out)
Dynamic focus ring/manual focus assist (300?/150? rotation) ensures camera reaches the last critical focus point. Iris/focus ring assignment switch enables focus ring to be the iris
10X, 5X, 2X Digital Zoom in 1080/60i mode
Color bars with 1kHz tone
Camera playback format can be changed without going into menus
Time/date stamp burn-in for legal and surveillance work
Improved 3.5-inch LCD screen can also be flipped for use with 35mm adapters
Intuitive design - most cables face the rear to reduce conflicts; audio connections located in the same place
Lightweight (4.2lbs), yet durable construction with magnesium aluminum alloy (same as AG-HVX200 series)
Backed by Panasonic's 5-year limited warranty (must register after purchase)
Includes:

AG-HPX170 P2 HD Camcorder
AJ-P2C0016RG 16GB P2 card
The HVX and HPX Book by Barry Green
5400mA battery
AC adapter/battery charger
Accessory mic holder
Component video cable with RCA-BNC adapters
Remote control
Shoulder strap
Instruction manual