With the Panasonic Lumix GH6 mirrorless system camera, the manufacturer has a hot iron in the fire. The professional DSLM is also aimed at video producers and comes with a 25-megapixel sensor that records videos in 5.7K and Apple’s ProRes format.
Panasonic Lumix GH6 with focus on videos
Unveiled back in March 2021, the Panasonic Lumix GH6 finally has a release date and is set to hit stores in March. Here, the mirrorless system camera (DSLM) relies on the Micro-Four-Thirds standard (MFT) and also targets professional users with unique video functions.
The built-in sensor measures 17.3 x 13 millimeters and has 25 megapixels, which is the highest resolution in this format to date. Previous MFT system cameras offered a maximum of 20 megapixels, which ensures smaller pixels and thus a more detailed image in the GH6. In anamorphic mode, videos in 5760 × 4320 pixels are thus possible.
Post-production is also done directly in the camera. Here, the resolution can be downsampled and various effects can be applied to the image, for example to minimize lens flare and reflections.
For autofocus, Panasonic’s proprietary DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology is used, which simulates phase autofocus by using two differently focused shots to determine the focus point for the image. However, this requires data from the lenses, which is why the technology only works with Panasonic lenses.
A real video pro
At most, the Panasonic Lumix GH6 records videos in 5.7K resolution in 17:9 format, which corresponds to 5728 × 3024 pixels. The maximum frame rate for this is 60 frames per second, and that’s with 10-bit color. C4K with 4096 × 2160 pixels as well as normal 4K with 3840 × 2160 pixels with 60 fps each at 4:2:2 10-bit are also possible. So is 120p at 4:2:0 10-bit and full HD video.
In addition, the GH6 supports Apple’s ProRes codec for 5.7K at 30p, according to the manufacturer. However, this requires a particularly fast CFexpress type B card. However, videos in MOV format with classic codecs like H.265/HEVC or H.264 can also be stored on normal SD cards; two card slots are available for this.
The camera has both active and passive cooling. Inside, this is implemented with graphite and other heat-conducting materials, while a fan conducts heat to the outside in the sensor, processor and memory card.
Sound and Monitor
The audio quality of the Lumix GH6 is also said to have been significantly improved compared to its predecessor. For example, the DSLM can record 4-channel audio in 48 or 96 kHz in combination with the optionally available DMW-XLR1 XLR adapter. Internally, stereo audio at a maximum of 48 kHz and 25-bit is possible.
The Lumix GH6 features an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 3.6 megapixels, as well as a rear monitor that swivels and rotates. It comes with a resolution of 1.8 megapixels. The camera can also be permanently powered via USB. In addition, it offers an HDMI Type-A port and a strain relief that should minimize cable clutter.
Price and Availability
The Panasonic Lumix GH6 is scheduled to be available in stores in March 2022, one year after its initial unveiling. The manufacturer’s MSRP is 2,200 euros – without a lens, of course.
Panasonic will launch an Early Bird promotion with free Lexar CFexpress Type B Gold 128GB card worth €249 (MSRP) and a 1-year warranty extension for quick-timers. It starts from March shipment and runs until April 30, 2022.
