Sony is rumored to be readying a new Cinema Line camera, the FX8, positioned below the FX9 and aimed at filmmakers who want maximum resolution in a smaller, more flexible body.
The FX8 is said to feature a new 12K full-frame sensor with 12,032 horizontal pixels. In typical Cinema Line fashion, Sony will likely market it as an 81MP “effective” 16:9 sensor, but the full 3:2 readout reportedly reaches 96 megapixels. As with the FX30/A6700 relationship, Sony appears to be introducing this sensor in the CineLine first, hinting that future Alpha models (possibly new A7S or A7R bodies) could adopt the same 96MP full-frame sensor with full 3:2 coverage.
The camera is expected to include dual native ISO and FX6-level low-light performance, with 16 stops of dynamic range at ISO 500, 2000, and 8000. Recording modes would include high-quality full-frame and Super 35 8K up to 30p and 4K up to 60p in both 17:9 and 16:9. For higher frame rates, the FX8 is rumored to offer 4K 120p 16:9 with a minimal 1.04x crop.
One caveat: like the BURANO, the FX8 reportedly will not support Open Gate recording.
Tbh, if these specs are even half true, Sony is basically trying to bridge the gap between their cinema workhorses and high-res Alpha shooters. I mean, 96MP on a 12K sensor sounds like a total nightmare for data management, but the flexibility for cropping in post would be a lifesaver. Comparing it to the current Sony FX9, the FX9 still wins on ergonomics and that locking E-mount, which is crucial for heavy cine glass. But the FX9 is basically capped at 4K output from that 6K sensor. If the FX8 really hits 8K 30p, it’s gonna make it hard to justify the older body unless ur really tied to the shoulder-mount style and those specific internal NDs. Then there's the Sony FX6. It's still the low-light king with that 12MP sensor, but it lacks the resolution for some high-end delivery specs. The FX8 seems aimed at those who need Sony A7R V level detail in a proper cine body with better cooling. Honestly though, the lack of Open Gate is a major bummer. Sony keeps gatekeeping that feature for some reason. If this hits around 8 or 9k, it's gonna be huge.
stumbled on this and i am honestly satisfied with these specs. sony usually nails the sensor tech and that 12K readout is gonna be a game changer for wildlife or corporate stuff where you cant always get close. tip for when this drops: make sure your workstation can actually handle 12K footage. you will definitely need something fast like the Sony CEA-G640T 640GB CFexpress Type A Memory Card to avoid buffer issues, especially if you are hitting those higher frame rates. i have been using the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II on my current rig and it should resolve that resolution just fine. tl;dr: massive leap for cropping flexibility, just make sure you have the cfexpress cards and pc power to back it up.