The new Sony MCX-500 ‘live producer’ is ideal for single operators on small-scale multi-camera shoots where often affordability is a key factor. Sony's new MCX-500 all-in-one Multi-cam producer includes a wide-range of functionality along with an easy-to-use interface for use in a variety of different types of productions. Getting the right switcher for the job these days can be an overwhelming task with plenty of choices, but not all of them are really affordable. Sony has decided to change all that with their latest MCX-500. Sony MCX-500 Switcher The MCX-500 is a 4 channel video switcher that offers users the option to select from 9 inputs, including 4x 3G-SDI, 2x HDMI and 2x CVBS. The unit also features an extra RGB input for title overlays. A wide range of video cameras can be connected to the MCX-500, including the newly announced HXR-NX5R, which we wrote about here. Sony FS5 and FS7 cameras can also work including a huge range of XDCAMs or NXCAMs, and even consumer video cameras. Other major features on the MCX-500 include both PinP and Keyer overlay functions, a range of transition effects, and 4 channel video and 5 channel audio inputs including XLR and embedded audio from SDI or HDMI, for maximum versatility. The MCX-500 makes it really easy for a single operator to run a professional live event. You have Multi-view monitoring with all your sources on a single display. Just like you'd expect from a pro switcher, all the main functions are accessible via physical controls that are easy to operate without looking away from the action for a second. More advanced features can be tuned to your exact workflow requirements and mapped to an LCD touch-screen control with customisable ICON buttons. You can even remote operate or extend the control functions of the MCX-500 via PC, Mac or Tablet over Ethernet or WiFi (keep in mind that an external WiFi router is required). Sony MCX-500 Switcher 2 The MCX-500 also includes premium features taken from Sony’s flagship broadcast video switcher- the MVS series, such as its broadcast-quality chroma key algorithm.
“Whatever the scale of a live production we know that users want broadcast performance,” said James Leach, Marketing Manager, Sony Professional Europe. “The MCX-500 is designed for those applications where the system needs to be affordable and easy-to-use, but without compromising on flexibility or quality.”
Sony MCX-500 Switcher 1 Sony MCX-500 Switcher 1 back When paired up with Sony’s RM-30BP Remote Controller and Sony's latest pro cameras like the NX5R, Sony call this combination - “Simple Live Solution”, which allows recording control to be synchronised for multiple camcorders, thus making it easy to manage independent recording centrally. Pricing has not yet been announced, but we expect it to be affordable. The MCX-500 is slated for release in January 2017. I am sure Sony will have some more news about this product at IBC 2016 in two weeks, and we'll get the latest from the show floor when we get to IBC. Stay tuned.