Sony Cinema Line FX3 Brand New

Description

The Sony Cinema Line FX3 (model ILME-FX3, also referred to as FX3A in some updated variants) is a compact, full-frame cinema camera designed for professional video creators, solo filmmakers, and hybrid shooters. It blends the high-performance sensor and autofocus from Sony’s Alpha series (like the a7S III) with Cinema Line features for cinematic expression, enhanced mobility, and pro operability.

Key Highlights
• Full-frame performance with excellent low-light sensitivity, wide dynamic range (>15 stops), and cinematic shallow depth of field.
• Compact, cage-free design optimized for handheld, gimbal, or run-and-gun shooting.
• Cinematic color science including S-Cinetone for beautiful skin tones (matching other Cinema Line cameras like VENICE, FX9, FX6).
• Advanced autofocus with Real-time Tracking and Eye AF, ideal for solo operation.
• High-frame-rate recording up to 4K 120p and Full HD 240p.
• Professional audio via detachable XLR handle with full-size XLR inputs.
• Reliable cooling for extended recording times without overheating in demanding conditions.

Sensor and Image Processor
• Sensor: 35mm full-frame (35.6 x 23.8 mm) back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor.
• Effective pixels: Approx. 10.3 MP for movies, 12.1 MP for still images (total ~12.9 MP).
• Processor: High-performance BIONZ XR (dual-chip in some descriptions).
• Dynamic range: 15+ stops.
• ISO sensitivity:
◦ Movies: ISO 80–102400 (expandable to 409600).
◦ Still images: ISO 80–102400 (expandable to 40–409600).
• Base ISO supports dual gain for clean low-light performance.

Video Recording Capabilities
• Max resolutions and frame rates:
◦ UHD 4K (up to 120 fps).
◦ Full HD up to 240 fps (for slow-motion).

• Recording formats:
◦ 10-bit 4:2:2 XAVC S-I (intra-frame).
◦ XAVC HS (H.265) Long GOP.
◦ 16-bit RAW output via HDMI.
• Color profiles: S-Cinetone, S-Log2, S-Log3, HLG (for HDR workflows).
• Reduced rolling shutter thanks to the sensor design.
• Internal recording: 10-bit 4:2:2 sampling for excellent color grading flexibility.
• Media: Dual slots supporting CFexpress Type A and SD cards (UHS-II). Supports simultaneous recording, relay, sorting, and copying.

Autofocus and Stabilization
• AF system: Fast Hybrid AF with 627 phase-detection points (covers ~89% of the image area). Includes Real-time Eye AF, Face Tracking, and Subject Tracking.
• Stabilization: 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) with Active Mode for smooth handheld footage (up to ~5.5 stops).

Design and Ergonomics
• Body type: Compact rangefinder-style mirrorless cinema camera (E-mount).
• Dimensions (body, approx.): 129.7 mm x 77.8 mm x 84.5 mm (W x H x D, without protrusions).
• Weight:
◦ Body only: ~630 g.
◦ With battery and card: ~715 g.
◦ With XLR handle, battery, and card: ~1.015 kg.
• LCD: 3.0-inch (7.5 cm) vari-angle touchscreen, ~1.44M dots (some specs note 2.36M dots in variants), tilts ~176° and rotates ~270° for flexible monitoring.
• Controls: Intuitive Cinema Line layout with dedicated REC button, customizable buttons, and tactile dials for video workflows.
• Cooling: Innovative heat dissipation structure (including Σ-shaped graphite-alloy heatsink) for prolonged 4K 60p recording.

Audio and Connectivity
• Audio: Detachable XLR handle unit with two full-size XLR inputs (phantom power support). Built-in stereo mic. 4-channel audio recording.
• Interfaces: Full-size HDMI, USB-C, microphone/headphone jacks, multi-interface shoe.
• Other: No built-in ND filters (common for this class); supports external solutions.

Power and Battery Life
• Uses NP-FZ100 battery.
• Improved runtime compared to similar models (greater than 1.6x in some tests relative to predecessors).
• Supports USB PD power delivery for extended shoots.

Still Image Capabilities
While primarily a cinema camera, it supports 12.1 MP stills with the same excellent sensor and AF performance.

What’s Included (Typical Kit)
• Camera body, XLR handle unit, rechargeable battery, charger, power cord, USB cable, and accessories (varies by region).
The FX3 is praised for its balance of professional video features in a lightweight, portable body—making it ideal as a main camera for indie filmmakers or a B-camera on larger productions. It excels in low light, fast action, and scenarios requiring reliable autofocus and mobility. Note that there is no internal electronic ND filter, and it lacks a built-in viewfinder (EVF) to keep the form factor compact (external monitors or viewfinders are common add-ons).

For the absolute latest firmware updates, exact recording limits, or regional variants (e.g., FX3A with potential minor LCD improvements), check Sony’s official support site.