NAB 2014: AJA has launched the Cion, the company’s first-ever camera.

Cion is a bold move for AJA, which pioneered lens-to-post Apple ProRes workflows with the introduction of the Ki Pro product line.

AJA said the camera was the culmination of years of development.

AJA president Nick Rashby said: “Bringing this sophisticated camera to market underscores our passion to support filmmakers, broadcasters and content creators.

“We are incredibly proud of Cion. We believe that the thoughtfully considered design, along with a powerful feature set, will make it extremely useful and versatile for productions worldwide.”

The camera can record directly to AJA Pak SSD media at up to 60 frames per second and offers the ability to output 4K raw data at up to 120 fps via 4x 3G-SDI outputs. 

The camera offers in-camera recording directly to Apple ProRes - including 12-bit 4:4:4, and shoots at 4K/Ultra HD and 2K/HD resolutions.

3G-SDI and HDMI outputs supply signals to a variety of 4K/Ultra HD and 2K/HD monitors.

When recording in HD or 2K, the image is oversampled from the full 4K sensor, retaining focal length.

The PL mount device features a built-in shoulder mount and standard connectors, as well as professional audio inputs.

A built-in filter combines an optical low pass filter (OLPF) to eliminate unwanted aliasing and moiré with an infrared cut filter to produce appropriate colours.

There is also a back focus adjustment for a sharper image.

AJA said the camera’s power output connector is placed at the front of the unit to make electronic viewfinders easy to use.

As well as an “uncomplicated” user interface on the operator-side, the cameras menu parameters are remotely configurable via a web interface and can be accessed through a web browser via a LAN connection.  

The Cion chassis is formed of magnesium, while integrated steel rosettes allow for mounting of industry-standard accessories such as handgrips.

The camera will be available this Summer for approximately £5,400 ($8,995).

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