Sony has released a brand-new, major system software update (Version 6.00) for the popular Sony FX6 cinema camera. This update brings an impressive list of improvements and new features, including the beloved BIG6 home screen, Blackmagic RAW support, and improved autofocus. Do you own an ILME-FX6T, ILME-FX6TK, or ILME-FX6V? Then keep reading!

In this blog post, we will list the most important new features for you and explain what you need to pay close attention to before performing the update.

⚠️ Important warning in advance: Settings will be lost!

Before we dive into the cool new features, there is one crucial step you absolutely cannot forget.

When upgrading your Sony FX6 from version 5.02 (or earlier) to version 6.00, your current settings will not be carried over. The camera will completely reset to the factory defaults. Do you want to keep your carefully configured settings? Then save your settings as an 'All File' on your memory card before starting the upgrade. After the update, you can simply load this file again.

Are you deciding to perform the update yourself? Make sure you follow Sony's instructions to the letter. Interrupting a firmware update can damage the camera.

Don't want to take any risks? Let our service department handle it!

Do you find updating firmware daunting, are you worried about losing your settings, or do you simply lack the time to figure it out yourself? No problem! Our service department is ready to help you.

Our experts can perform the Ver. 6.00 update safely and quickly for you, including backing up and restoring your current settings. This way, you can be 100% sure that your Sony FX6 will continue to work flawlessly. Contact our service department here to schedule an appointment.

The most important new features in FX6 Firmware V6.00

This update is a game-changer for the workflow of videographers. We have divided the impressive list of additions and improvements into clearly arranged categories:

1. Interface and Operation

  • BIG6 Home Screen: The most notable addition is the new BIG6 home screen. Here you can easily see all your essential shooting settings and configurations at a glance.
  • Improved layout: The display layout for camera status and settings has been improved, providing a much better overview during shooting and video playback.
  • New Assignable Buttons: You can now assign 'Crop Select', 'LUT On/Off', and 'AE Level/Mode' to your custom assignable buttons.
  • Status displays: Support has been added for Camera ID and Reel Number settings on the status screen, as well as a new Index screen.
  • Handy notifications: When settings are disabled due to configuration limitations, the camera will now immediately display an explanatory message.

2. Network and Connectivity

  • Internet via your smartphone: Super handy on location! You can now connect your smartphone to the internet while it is connected to the camera via Wi-Fi Direct.
  • Revamped network menu: The network menu has been classified more logically in the Full Menu, and you can now change network settings directly from the status screen.
  • Network speed: The speed of your connection is now directly visible on the shooting screen.
  • Improved security: Support for the outdated WPA and WEP protocols has ended. Moving forward, the FX6 will exclusively use the much more secure WPA2 or WPA3 standards.

3. Monitor & Control App Integration

When using version 2.5.0 (or later) of the Sony Monitor & Control app, you gain access to new functions:

  • Controlling frame rate settings for S&Q Motion.
  • Setting attributes and deleting 3D LUT files right from your phone.
  • A new low-resolution mode for smoother network monitoring.

4. Image Quality and Autofocus

  • Improved AF: Autofocus performance is now even better when the system frequency is set to 29.97, 25, 24, or 23.98 fps.
  • User 3D LUTs: Image quality is noticeably improved when using your own User 3D LUT files.
  • New HDR (HLG) Look: A new 'HLG Mild Base Look' preset has been added for when your target display is HDR (HLG).
  • ND Filter Notation: You can now view the light transmittance level of your variable ND filter as optical density (logarithmic notation).

5. External Recording and Workflow (Blackmagic RAW!)

  • BRAW via HDMI: A fantastic addition for many filmmakers: the Sony FX6 now supports external recording of Blackmagic RAW using the HDMI RAW video output (be sure to check the compatibility of your specific Blackmagic Design monitor/recorder).
  • HDMI Focus Magnifier: Added support to make focusing via an external monitor easier.
  • Scene Files: From now on, you can easily import and export scene files using external media.

Conclusion

Firmware update 6.00 makes the already fantastic Sony FX6 an even more versatile camera. From faster operation thanks to the BIG6 menu to the addition of BRAW recording via HDMI; this is an update you do not want to miss as a professional.

Do you need help with the installation?
Don't take any risks with your valuable equipment and leave it to the professionals. Contact our Service Department today, and we will make sure your FX6 is updated and ready for your next shoot in no time!