Sound Devices PIX 220i/PIX 240i recorders

Following the release of its PIX 220 and PIX 240 audio/video recorders, Sound Devices unveiled upgraded PIX recorders at IBC 2012 – the PIX 220i and PIX 240i.

The new models feature 5-inch IPS-based LCD panels, with accurate colour rendition and consistent off-axis viewing response. The displays provide confirmation of framing, exposure, focus, audio metering and Setup Menu selections.

In addition, Sound Devices has released v2.01 firmware for all PIX recorders, adding features including support for Alexa SDI filename metadata. New playback control is available including customised list playback, looped file playback and additional shuttle speeds. The update also offers HD-to-SD and SD-to-HD aspect ratio conversion with selectable letter boxing, cropping and support for anamorphic workflows.

Sound Devices’ PIX 220i and PIX 240i offer users monitoring of the image’s exposure with Exposure Assist, a feature that shows either false-colour or multi-level zebra-stripes. It comes equipped with Focus Assist, which includes a peaking filter and 1:1 pixel zoom. Monitor brightness, contrast and chroma adjustments are also now available. PIX 240i provides standard definition recording (NTSC and PAL) and support for using simultaneous analogue and SDI/HDMI audio inputs. The PIX 240i has a built-in Ambient Clockit time code generator/reader with genlock output for multi-camera and double-system sound applications. The source time code can be derived from the SDI stream, from an external source or from the built-in generator in the PIX 240i. Other key features include digital audio inputs on AES3 and an external eSATAp connection for direct connection to large SATA drives.

The PIX 220i and PIX 240i can be connected to cameras with HDMI (plus SDI with the PIX 240i) and record directly to QuickTime using Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHD codecs. Since PIX recorders use ProRes and DNxHD, files recorded in the field can be used directly in postproduction, making the workflow simple and fast.

The audio circuitry on the PIX 220i and PIX 240i is based on Sound Devices’ 7-Series digital audio recorders. The low-noise (-128dBu EIN), high-headroom, high-bandwidth inputs are mic/line switchable and include limiters, high-pass filters and phantom power.

PIX 220i and PIX 240i recorders are built with a metalised, moulded carbon-fibre chassis and are powered by external 10-18V DC or two removable Sony L-battery mount power supply systems.