It’s mid-December 2024, and the price of the Sony FX6 has dropped yet again, now sitting at £5,395.00. This could be a sign that its successor is just around the corner, with rumours of a potential announcement gaining momentum.
Canon’s recent releases—the C400 and C80—have thrown down the gauntlet for Sony’s now-aging FX6. Now four years since its launch, the FX6 is showing its age in the fast-moving tech world, and many are eagerly awaiting an updated model. The recent FX6 price drop has only fueled the buzz, with speculation swirling around the possibility of an FX6 Mark II or other major updates from Sony.
Why is the Canon C80 so tempting?
Canon’s C80 is raising the bar with a 6K full-frame sensor, giving filmmakers the flexibility to capture ultra-detailed footage with more options for cropping and resizing in post-production. Paired with over 14 stops of dynamic range, internal 12-bit recording for colour precision, and Canon’s acclaimed Dual Pixel Autofocus, the C80 outshines the FX6. With in-body image stabilization and Canon’s RF lens mount, it’s a powerhouse option for filmmakers seeking cutting-edge performance.
With Sony’s FX6 limited to 4K UHD, the question now is whether Sony will answer the call with an upgraded model to keep up with Canon’s advancements. Dive into our detailed comparison to see why the C80 has so many rethinking their next camera upgrade.
Since its debut in November 2020, the Sony FX6 has been a favourite for filmmakers seeking professional-grade performance in a compact form. Sony’s history of updating its mid-range lineup includes:
- PXW-FS7 – Announced in September 2014
- FS7 II – Announced in November 2016
- FX6 – Announced in November 2020
This pattern suggests that a refresh is likely imminent. Whether it’s an FX6 MKII or a rebrand, the filmmaking community is brimming with anticipation.
The Anticipated FX6 MKII: What to Expect?
While there’s no official announcement yet, industry chatter suggests we could see significant upgrades in the next iteration. Some of the most exciting possibilities include:
- Global Shutter: Greatly improve motion capture by eliminating the “rolling shutter” effect.
- 32-bit Audio: Exceptional sound quality, crucial for high-end productions.
- 8K Video Capture: The FX6 currently supports 4K; 8K would align it with growing trends in filmmaking technology.
These speculated features represent major enhancements, especially for those needing cutting-edge equipment. However, with every new release comes the inevitable question: is it worth holding out for?
Choosing the Right Moment
For filmmakers with projects underway, the FX6 remains a reliable and powerful option. Its full-frame sensor, excellent low-light performance, and cinematic depth of field make it an industry staple. However, for those not under immediate pressure, waiting for a new model with revolutionary features might be the more prudent choice.
The Way Forward: FX6 or Wait for the FX6 MKII?
At South Wales Video, we expect Sony to announce the FX6 MKII—or a rebranded successor—before the end of the year. Keep an eye out for official announcements, and consider your project timelines carefully before deciding.
The Economics of Desire: A Cautionary Tale
The siren call of the latest technology brings with it a cautionary tale of depreciation and desire. The FX6’s impending successor has already sparked predictions of a further decrease in price, underscored by a recent £500 markdown. This pattern is a universal truth in the realm of camera tech, where the new quickly becomes the old.
Sony’s Recent Announcement: Tactic or Truth?
In November 2024, Sony announced a firmware update roadmap for the FX6, scheduled for February 2026, which promises improved autofocus capabilities and new picture profiles. However, Sony made it clear that there are no plans for an FX6 Mark II at this time. This has sparked a wave of mixed reactions within the filmmaking community.
On one hand, some users are frustrated by the lack of new hardware, questioning Sony’s pace and voicing concerns that firmware updates alone won’t keep up with Canon’s latest releases. With the Canon C80 launching soon, many are openly considering a switch, drawn to its superior hardware, which includes 6K resolution, in-body stabilization, and 12-bit internal recording—features that a firmware update simply can’t replicate.
On the other hand, some FX6 users are relieved by Sony’s commitment to extending the lifespan of their current investment, finding reassurance in the roadmap’s promise of continued relevance without a costly upgrade. However, with the FX6 now four years old, others wonder if incremental updates are enough to justify dropping £5,000 on an aging model, especially when Canon’s newer hardware is at a similar price point.
As Canon raises the bar with cutting-edge specs, Sony’s slow pace risks losing ground with filmmakers who expect significant advancements to justify their investment. Will Sony’s gradual updates keep its user base loyal, or will disgruntled users follow through on threats to jump ship for Canon’s newer options?
Interpreting the Announcement
Manufacturers often keep future plans under wraps to sustain current sales. Sony’s focus on firmware updates suggests a commitment to extend the FX6’s life, but this doesn’t rule out a future successor. Given that the FX9 is older, Sony may prioritize an FX9 Mark II with features like 8K or global shutter, filling the high-end gap while giving time to enhance an eventual FX6 Mark II. The Burano, positioned well above the FX9, leaves room for an updated FX9 model without crowding the lineup.
If Sony releases an FX6 Mark II too soon, it could undercut the FX9 and any FX9 Mark II. Currently, £5,000 for a 4-year-old FX6—without in-body stabilization, limited to 4K, and facing competition from Canon’s 6K C80—feels less competitive. A roadmap that includes an FX9 Mark II now and an FX6 Mark II later could satisfy loyal users while strategically expanding the Cinema Line.
| Feature | Canon C80 | Sony FX6 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Type | Full-Frame BSI Stacked CMOS | Full-Frame Exmor R CMOS |
| Resolution | 6K DCI (6000 x 3164) | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) |
| Video Formats | 6K, 4K DCI, UHD, Full HD | 4K UHD, Full HD |
| Dynamic Range | 14+ Stops | 14 Stops |
| Internal Recording Bit Depth | Up to 12-bit internal | 10-bit internal |
| Autofocus System | Dual Pixel CMOS AF | Fast Hybrid AF |
| ISO Range | 160 – 25600 (expandable to 100-102400) | 800 – 12800 (expandable to 800-409600) |
| Rolling Shutter | Minimal | Noticeable |
| In-Body Image Stabilization | Yes | No |
| Recording Frame Rates | 6K up to 30fps, 4K up to 60fps, Full HD up to 180fps | 4K up to 120fps, Full HD up to 240fps |
| Lens Mount | RF Mount | E Mount |
| Screen | 3.5″ Fully Articulated | 3.5″ Fully Articulated |
| Wireless | Built-in | Built-in |
| Weight | 1310g | 890g |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 160 x 138 x 116 mm | 116 x 114 x 153 mm |
| Price (approx.) | £5,390 | £5,390 |