Sony has announced the world's first rain and dust proof camcorder, the HXR-NX70. It records 1080p/50 or 60 (depending on region) in AVCHD format at 28mbps. The 1/3" backlit EXMOR-R CMOS sensor has been optimized for low light. The G lens is 26.3mm (35mm equivalent) wide at f1.8. Besides the very notable IPX54 rating (rain and dust proofing,) the camera does have a list of very interesting features that are new to camcorders:
1. There is a built-in 96GB memory for extended recording. It still takes Sony Memory Sticks or SDXC cards for up to 18hrs of 28mbps recording with a 128GB SDXC card.
2. GPS geotagging. Absolutely useless while underwater but useful for a general location.
3. As with previous NXCAM, the handle with XLR plugs are all removeable, making it a small package to house.
4. The camcorder can download clips directly to a USB harddrive without a computer, making field backup much easier.
The MSRP is US$3200.
The PAL version is called the NX70E. This is the pro version of the Sony CX700.
This looks to be a nice little candidate for a video rig, except there's no MWB button.
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