NAB Show: The Rundown
This year, at the National Association of Broadcasters 2010 Conference (NAB Show), expectations were met and in some cases exceeded.This year's conference was the largest in NAB history, with the total attendance reaching 88,044. Almost 24,000 of those were international attendees, representing 156 countries. The Videomaker staff was also in attendance, representing the curious minds of our readers. Our quest? To bring you the latest on the new gear hitting the streets. Here's what we found:
Panasonic AG-AF100
The AG-AF100 AVCCAM HD camcorder is certainly capable of changing the face of digital cinematography. Incorporating a 4/3-inch, 16:9 MOS imager, the camcorder records at 1080/60i, 50i, 30p, 25p and 24p and features two XLR inputs with +48V Phantom Power capability. The shallow depth of field and wider field of view mimics the much sought-after look of 35mm movie cameras and video DSLRs. The AF100 maintains flexibility and cost-effectiveness by utilizing an increasing number of industry-standard 4/3-inch lenses, filters and adaptors.
Steadicam Tango
Garret Brown, inventor of the original Steadicam, wowed us again this year with his newest creation, the Steadicam Tango. The Tango provides the same smooth shooting as previous Steadicam models, while introducing a boom capable of nine feet of elevation, a 360-degree pan and 90-degree tilt. The boom attaches to a Steadicam vest system and is controlled from the base sled, making it comfortable and easy to control. The all-mechanical construction allows for a lighter rig, while enabling the user to maneuver quietly. Availability and pricing of the Tango have yet to be announced.
Petrol Bags Cambio
Is it a bag or a camera support? It's both, actually. Petrol Bags' newest lightweight camera case, the Cambio, is the first of its kind. Doubling as a camera support system for small video cameras, the Cambio provides an alternative to toting around bulky tripods and multiple bags, while providing plenty of room for gear and accessories. The expandable nickel-plated center steel column supports up to 9.9 pounds and is braced by an extending aluminum double-bar tube leg, allowing users to get a steady shot no matter where they travel.
Sony Creative Software Vegas Pro 9.0d
Vegas Pro 9.0d is the latest update in Sony's Vegas Pro nonlinear editing line and provides the tools necessary for video and broadcast. Vegas Pro 9.0d boasts exceptional effects processing, audio support and a full complement of editorial tools, while offering broad format support. The Vegas Pro collection includes support for closed captioning, multilayer Adobe Photoshop Documents (PSD), enhanced device explorer, timeline burning to DVD and PreSonus FaderPort control surface.
Litepanels Sola Fresnels
Litepanels is shining a new light in the world of production with its Sola Fresnels. Solas are daylight-balanced, provide the control and single-shadow properties that make the Fresnel light so popular and draw 90% less power than conventional tungsten lights. The Sola Fresnels also feature instant dimming with no noticeable color shift, as well as consistent flicker-free output, even as the battery voltage goes down. Solas are available in three models: Sola6 and Sola12, which provide motorized focus and dimming by touch screen as well as by remote control. And finally, the battery-powered SolaENG, which is designed for both on-camera and off-camera mounting.








