![Sony_Burano_CineAlta[1]](https://media.greatlobbyist.com/files/2023/09/Sony_Burano_CineAlta1.webp "Sony_Burano_CineAlta[1]")
Design
BURANO features design upgrades based on suggestions from the filmmaking community. For instance, all menu controls are situated on the side of the camera operator. Tally lamps are also positioned in three spots to make it simpler for the surrounding team to monitor the shooting progress. The multi-purpose 3.5-inch LCD panel has three different modes: viewfinder, touch focus, and menu control. The BURANO also has a viewfinder arm, two 3-pin XLR audio inputs, a headphone connector (stereo minijack), and an optional sturdy T-handle, all of which are useful for solo use.
Features
Utilizing the renowned colour science from Sony’s VENICE cameras, the BURANO introduces an 8.6K full-frame sensor that closely aligns with the VENICE 2’s specifications, making it a seamless companion for a wide range of productions. This sensor boasts a dual base ISO of 800 and 3200, offering a remarkable 16 stops of dynamic range to capture exquisite imagery even in the most demanding lighting scenarios. Like its counterparts in Sony’s full-frame Cinema Line, the BURANO boasts versatility in shooting options, supporting full-frame and Super 35 formats. Additionally, it incorporates a de-squeeze function catering to anamorphic lenses. Its frame rate capabilities are equally impressive, with the ability to record in resolutions up to 8K at 30 frames per second, 6K at 60 frames per second, or 4K at 120 frames per second.
Notably, the BURANO is designed with mobility in mind, featuring a compact and lightweight build, approximately 32mm shorter and 1.4kg lighter than the VENICE 2. Its rugged magnesium chassis ensures durability, making it suitable for operation in the harshest of environments. Sony, in a nod to environmental responsibility, has crafted the camera and accessory packaging materials primarily from plant-based cellulose instead of plastic. Additionally, a moulded pulp cushion replaces expanded polystyrene for cushioning, further contributing to sustainability. Setting a groundbreaking precedent, the BURANO stands as the world’s first digital cinema camera with a PL-mount offering in-body image stabilization. Leveraging an innovative image stabilization mechanism and control algorithm inspired by Sony’s Alpha™ series of mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras, this feature effectively corrects unwanted camera shake, whether from handheld shooting or walking, when using E-mount or PL-mount lenses.
Furthermore, the BURANO is equipped with an electronic variable ND filter ranging from 0.6 to 2.1, simplifying adjustments in varying lighting conditions. This electronic filter also permits depth of field control through iris adjustments, ensuring optimal exposure without altering the depth of field. For added convenience, over 70 E-mount lenses can harness the impressive image stabilization capabilities cultivated through the Alpha™ series. Additionally, the camera supports Fast Hybrid AF, combining phase detection and contrast detection methods, and is compatible with high-precision Subject Recognition AF using AI. Utilizing an E-mount lens further enhances the camera’s portability, reducing both weight and size.
![3[1]](https://media.greatlobbyist.com/files/2023/09/31.webp "3[1]")
Performance
One of the standout features of the BURANO is its support for multiple internal recording formats. Notably, it embraces the new XAVC H™ format for 8K recording, harnessing the power of the MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec with its high compression efficiency. Filmmakers will find this format particularly enticing, as it strikes a fine balance between high-quality video and efficient storage. In addition to XAVC H, the camera also supports XAVC and X-OCN LT recording formats. The latter, X-OCN LT, is Sony’s proprietary compressed RAW format, capturing data with 16-bit linear precision. This provides filmmakers with ample latitude for post-production colour grading while reducing file transfer times and storage requirements, streamlining post-production workflows.
Storage options have also been enhanced, with the BURANO sporting two CFexpress Type B memory card slots. These slots can handle VPG400, enabling smooth and high-bitrate video data writing, even for formats like X-OCN LT 8K. To complement this, Sony will be releasing compatible CFexpress Type B memory cards, including the capacious CEB-G1920T (1920 GB) and CEB-G960T (960 GB) options. When it comes to colour reproduction, the BURANO is in a league of its own. It supports various log recording modes, such as S-Gamut3 and S-Gamut. Cine, surpassing the colour gamut boundaries of BT.2020 and DCI-P3. This ensures that the BURANO can seamlessly match the colour characteristics of all cameras in Sony’s esteemed Cinema Line, including the VENICE 2, giving filmmakers unprecedented colour consistency across their production.
Adding to its versatility, the BURANO comes equipped with four distinctive cinematic looks: Warm, Cool, Vintage, Teal, and Orange. These preset looks, in addition to supporting industry-standard s709 and 709 (800%) Look Up Tables (LUTs), provide filmmakers with a creative palette to craft their desired visual aesthetics. The BURANO’s utility extends beyond traditional shooting setups. Like the VENICE series and other notable models, it is fully capable of serving as a powerhouse for virtual production, seamlessly interfacing with large-screen LED displays like Sony’s Crystal LED VERONA. The inclusion of gen-lock ensures precise synchronization in multi-camera setups.
For solo shooters and those who crave control, Sony will be releasing the GP-VR100 Grip remote control, designed specifically for the BURANO’s main unit. This remote facilitates smooth control of the zoom lever and recording start/stop button, enhancing convenience during solo shooting setups.
Hardware & Software
The Cinema Line is a line of camera equipment for content creators that not only offers the desired cinematographic appearance established through considerable expertise in digital cinema creation but also improves operability and reliability that satisfy the different needs of discerning creators. Software-wise, the FX3, and FX30, among others, can be utilised with the recently released mobile app Monitor & Control, a component of the Sony Creators’ Cloud. Intuitive focus control of compatible cameras is made possible by the app, which was created with visual designers in mind. It also supports wireless video monitoring, high-precision exposure determination using false colour and waveform monitors, and support for compatible camera compatibility. This app is also compatible with BURANO.
Availability
Beginning in November 2023, the UAE will have access to the BURANO, CFexpress Type B memory cards, CEB-G1920T (1920 GB)/CEB-G960T (960 GB), and the GP-VR100 Grip remote control (sold separately).
