Looking for the possibility for simple EFP production with remote control camera. Sony BRC-Z330 seems a good choice, but wonder if the picture quality will be much lower than XDCAM. Anyone experience with this camera? How you like it? Thanks!

Hi Anthony,

I have 2 X BRC-Z330 cameras on order and they should take about a week to arrive.

I have extensive experience with integrated robotic cameras including the BRC range. I am guessing that the camera module in the BRC-Z330 is similar to Sony's FCB-H11 color block camera which has a 2 mega pixel 1/3 type HD CMOS image sensor.

If so, the images should be of excellent quality when used in favorable lighting conditions. I am predicting that the BRC-Z330 may struggle in low lighting conditions, as with the FCB-H11 module, which ideally needs to be set at -3db gain.

When compared to the other BRC cameras such as the H700 and Z700, the quality of the images will probably be slightly inferior. However, this is reflected in the price as the BRC-Z330 is slightly cheaper.

The BRC-Z330 does however come with an 18X optical zoom and silent operation. This 18X optical zoom really is a step forward, as the other cameras in the BRC range only have 10X or 12X zoom, which greatly reduces their effectiveness in some shooting conditions.

As far as recording formats, I am sure other people can better explain the pros and cons of XDCAM etc. I have achieved excellent results recording to HDCAM + the Flash XDR with the FCB-H11 camera modules and use them extensively in broadcast television.

Just remember, the BRC-Z330 only outputs Y/C or composite in SD. You can only get HD-SDI via the additional option board. You could use a Y/C to SDI converter for SD operation, which gives great results with the FCB-H11 sony module.

In short, I think the BRC-Z330 will offer excellent value for money and be the best in its class.

I will post more when I get my 2 cameras next week.

Nick McLachlan

Hi Nick:
Thanks! Looking forward of your find out. My plan for these cameras are for classical music events, especialy hide the camera in the orchestra. Where a camera man is not so easy to hide.