FUGITIVES SEEKING JUSTICE MONDAY APRIL 21ST 2025 FULL EPISODE PART 1 AND PART 2 COMBINED

Posted on by Octavia Skyripper

Sony PXW-Z190: A Compact 4K Camcorder for Professional Videography

The Sony PXW-Z190 is a versatile, handheld camcorder in Sony’s XDCAM series, designed for professional videographers seeking a compact, all-in-one solution for 4K and HD production. Launched in 2018, it features a 1/3-inch 3CMOS sensor, a powerful 25x zoom lens, and advanced features like electronic variable ND filters, making it a robust tool for broadcast, news, and documentary filmmaking. This article explores its key features, pricing in the Kenyan market, where to purchase it (new and refurbished), and who this camera is best suited for.

Key Features of the Sony PXW-Z190

The PXW-Z190 combines professional imaging and ergonomic design, delivering high-quality footage in a portable form factor. Here are its standout features:

  1. Three 1/3-Inch Exmor R CMOS Sensors:
    • The 3CMOS sensor system captures 4K (3840 x 2160) at up to 60fps in 4:2:0 8-bit and HD (1920 x 1080) at up to 60fps in 4:2:2 10-bit, ensuring vibrant colors and fine detail. The Exmor R sensors provide improved low-light sensitivity compared to standard sensors, ideal for indoor or evening shoots.
  2. 25x Sony G Optical Zoom Lens:
    • The integrated 25x zoom lens (28.8mm to 720mm, 35mm equivalent) features three independent manual control rings for focus, zoom, and iris, enabling precise adjustments. A digital extender boosts zoom to 50x in HD mode without quality loss, perfect for distant subjects like wildlife or sports.
  3. Electronic Variable ND Filter:
    • Sony’s pioneering electronic variable ND filter (1/4 to 1/128, auto or manual) allows seamless exposure adjustments without changing aperture or shutter speed, maintaining depth of field in bright or shifting light conditions, a game-changer for outdoor shooting.
  4. Advanced Face Detection Autofocus:
    • The camera offers Face Priority AF and Face Only AF, using advanced face detection to keep subjects in sharp focus, even during dynamic movement. This is ideal for interviews, events, or single-operator shoots where tracking is critical.
  5. Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) for HDR:
    • Supports HLG recording for instant HDR workflows, delivering vivid imagery compatible with both HDR and SDR displays without extensive color grading. The electronic viewfinder (EVF) toggles between HDR and SDR emulation, with SDR gain metadata recorded for post-production.
  6. Versatile Codec Support:
    • Records in XAVC-Long (4K 4:2:0 8-bit, HD 4:2:2 10-bit), DVCAM, MPEG HD422, MPEG HD (with optional license), and Proxy 1080i (up to 9Mbps). Dual SD card slots enable simultaneous 4K/HD recording, relay, or backup modes, streamlining workflows for archival or fast turnaround.
  7. Professional Audio Capabilities:
    • Supports 4-channel 24-bit 48 kHz audio via two XLR inputs and the Multi-Interface (MI) Shoe for wireless microphones (e.g., Sony UWP-D11). Two independent volume dials offer precise control, though only two channels have dedicated adjustments.
  8. Robust Connectivity:
    • Includes 3G-SDI output, HDMI, timecode in/out, remote terminal, and built-in 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi for remote control via the Content Browser Mobile app. Firmware 4.0 adds RTMP/RTMPS streaming for platforms like YouTube Live, enhancing live broadcast capabilities.
  9. Ergonomic Design and Controls:
    • Weighing 2.3 kg (5 lb) with battery and lens hood, the PXW-Z190 features a large grip, hand strap, and external manual controls for ND, audio, and custom functions (six assignable buttons). The 0.39-inch OLED EVF and 3.5-inch LCD provide clear monitoring, with the EVF ideal for bright conditions.
  10. Dual MI Shoe and Workflow Features:
    • The Dual MI Shoe supports simultaneous use of wireless audio (e.g., UWP-D12) and video lighting (e.g., HVL-LBPC) without cables. The camera integrates with Sony’s Catalyst Browse/Prepare for metadata-driven workflows, including clip management and HDR/SDR adjustments.

Pricing in the Kenyan Market

The price of the Sony PXW-Z190 in Kenya varies depending on whether it’s new or refurbished and the retailer. Below are approximate prices based on available data:

  • New Sony PXW-Z190:
    • Local Retailers:
      • Cameras Africa: ~KSh 450,000 (body only, contact for stock).
      • Kantronics Traders: ~KSh 400,000 (based on pre-owned pricing, new units likely higher).
      • Jiji.co.ke: Prices range from KSh 400,000–500,000, depending on seller and accessories (e.g., battery, SD cards).
    • International Retailers (shipped to Kenya):
      • B&H Photo Video: ~KSh 506,000 (converted from $3,898, body only, excluding shipping and duties).
      • Amazon: ~KSh 506,000 (body only, excluding shipping and duties).
      • CVP: ~KSh 506,000 (body only, excluding shipping and duties).
  • Refurbished Sony PXW-Z190:
    • Local Market:
      • Kantronics Traders: KSh 400,000 (pre-owned, 1-year warranty).
      • Jiji.co.ke: Used/refurbished units start at KSh 300,000–400,000, depending on condition, hours (e.g., 200–1000), and accessories (e.g., hard case, extra batteries).
    • International Retailers:
      • Amazon Renewed: ~KSh 454,000 (converted from $3,500, body only, 90-day warranty, excluding shipping and duties).
      • eBay: Used units range from KSh 390,000–493,000 (converted from $3,000–$3,800), often including accessories like SD cards or tripods.
      • ShareGrid: ~KSh 454,000 (converted from $3,500, used with accessories, excluding shipping and duties).

Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change due to currency fluctuations, import duties (16% VAT + 25% customs duty), and retailer promotions. International purchases may add 30–40% in shipping and customs fees. Local availability is limited, so verify stock and pricing with sellers.

Where to Buy the Sony PXW-Z190 in Kenya

New Cameras

The PXW-Z190 is a professional camcorder with limited local availability in Kenya. Below are top options for purchasing new units:

  1. Cameras Africa:
    • Location: Nairobi
    • Price: ~KSh 450,000 (body only)
    • Link: Cameras Africa – Sony PXW-Z190
    • Offers: Specializes in professional gear; contact for stock and delivery.
  2. Kantronics Traders:
    • Location: Nairobi
    • Price: ~KSh 400,000 (based on pre-owned, new likely higher)
    • Link: Kantronics Traders – Sony PXW-Z190
    • Offers: Offers fast delivery (2 hours in Nairobi); verify new unit availability.
  3. Jiji.co.ke:
    • Location: Nationwide (online marketplace)
    • Price: ~KSh 400,000–500,000
    • Link: Jiji.co.ke – Sony Cameras
    • Offers: Multiple sellers; verify ratings and condition.
  4. B&H Photo Video:
    • Location: International (ships to Kenya)
    • Price: ~KSh 506,000 (body only, excluding shipping/duties)
    • Link: B&H Photo Video – Sony PXW-Z190
    • Offers: Trusted retailer; confirm shipping and customs fees.
  5. Amazon:
    • Location: International (ships to Kenya)
    • Price: ~KSh 506,000 (body only, excluding shipping/duties)
    • Link: Amazon – Sony PXW-Z190
    • Offers: Wide selection; verify shipping eligibility.

Refurbished Cameras

Refurbished or used PXW-Z190 units are available through local and international platforms:

  1. Kantronics Traders:
  2. Jiji.co.ke:
    • Price: ~KSh 300,000–400,000
    • Link: Jiji.co.ke – Sony Cameras
    • Notes: Verify seller reviews, request photos, and confirm hours and accessories (e.g., SD cards).
  3. Amazon Renewed:
    • Price: ~KSh 454,000 (body only, excluding shipping/duties)
    • Link: Amazon – Sony PXW-Z190 Renewed
    • Offers: Inspected units with 90-day warranty; factor in customs fees.
  4. eBay:
    • Price: ~KSh 390,000–493,000
    • Link: eBay – Sony PXW-Z190
    • Offers: Used/refurbished units with accessories; check seller ratings and shipping.
  5. ShareGrid:

Tip: For refurbished units, ensure the camera is tested, includes essentials (e.g., BP-U30 battery, lens hood), and has low hours (ideally <500). Local purchases from Kantronics Traders or Jiji.co.ke reduce import hassles, but international retailers offer more reliable refurbished options.

Who the Sony PXW-Z190 Is Best For

The Sony PXW-Z190 is a professional camcorder tailored for videographers who need a compact, all-in-one solution for fast-paced, high-quality production. It’s best suited for:

  1. News and ENG (Electronic News Gathering) Professionals:
    • The 25x zoom lens, variable ND filter, and face detection AF excel in fast-moving news environments, capturing sharp footage with minimal setup. Its Wi-Fi streaming and proxy recording streamline live broadcasts or quick uploads.
  2. Documentary Filmmakers:
    • The 3CMOS sensors, 15+ stops of dynamic range (in HDR), and 4-channel audio make it ideal for documentary work in varied lighting, such as Kenya’s urban or rural settings. The ergonomic grip and manual controls support single-operator shoots.
  3. Run-and-Gun Shooters:
    • Its compact design, external controls, and auto ND filter enable rapid adjustments for events, interviews, or reality TV, with HLG ensuring quick HDR/SDR turnaround without heavy grading.
  4. Broadcast and Multicamera Teams:
    • 3G-SDI, timecode, and remote control support multicamera setups for live events, sports, or studio productions, enhanced by RTMP streaming for platforms like YouTube Live.
  5. Corporate and Educational Videographers:
    • The all-in-one lens, 4K/HD proxy recording, and MI Shoe for wireless audio/lighting deliver polished content for corporate videos, training materials, or seminars, with easy integration into broadcast workflows.

Not Ideal For:

  • Beginners or casual users, as it requires technical knowledge and familiarity with broadcast workflows.
  • Budget-conscious filmmakers, as accessories (e.g., SD cards, wireless mics) and optional licenses (e.g., MPEG HD) add to costs.
  • Photographers, as it’s exclusively video-focused with no stills capabilities.
  • Cinema filmmakers needing RAW or higher-bit-depth recording, as it’s limited to 8-bit 4K and 10-bit HD (unlike the Sony FX9).

Considerations:

  • Users praise the Z190’s zoom range, variable ND, and HDR workflow but note its 8-bit 4K limitation may not suit high-end cinema. The large size (compared to mirrorless cameras) and plastic build feel less premium for some. Compared to the Sony FX6 (full-frame, 16-bit RAW) or Canon C70 (Super 35, internal NDs), the Z190 excels in broadcast and news with its integrated lens and streaming capabilities.

Conclusion

The Sony PXW-Z190 is a compact, professional camcorder that delivers 4K and HD footage with broadcast-ready features in a portable package. Its 3CMOS sensors, 25x zoom lens, electronic variable ND filter, and advanced connectivity make it a versatile tool for professional videography. In Kenya, new units are available from retailers like Cameras Africa for ~KSh 400,000–500,000, while refurbished units can be found on Jiji.co.ke or Kantronics Traders starting at ~KSh 300,000–400,000. Its all-in-one design and streaming capabilities make it ideal for Kenyan news crews, documentarians, and broadcast teams.

Whether capturing breaking news in Nairobi, documentaries in the Maasai Mara, or live events, the PXW-Z190 empowers videographers to produce high-quality content with minimal fuss. While it requires technical expertise and additional accessories, its robust features and competitive pricing make it a smart investment for professionals. Choose the Sony PXW-Z190, and you’re equipping yourself with a reliable workhorse for modern video production.

FUGITIVES SEEKING JUSTICE MONDAY APRIL 21ST 2025 FULL EPISODE PART 1 AND PART 2 COMBINED

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