AVCCAM camera recorders’ Full HD resolution imager produces stunning 1920 x 1080 or 1280 x 720 AVCHD video at high sensitivity. Because the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 codec provides a doubling of bandwidth efficiency and improved video performance over the older MPEG-2 compression-based formats, recordings look clean and crisp, even during fast motion, without image degradation or dropouts. Utilising a 21X zoom lens with three independent adjustable rings for zoom, focus and iris, these new AVCCAM units offer a wide 28mm (35mm equivalent) viewing angle, covering most shooting situations without the need for a wide-angle conversion lens.
 
The AG-AC160 records video in four professional AVCCAM HD recording modes, including the highest-quality PH mode (average 21 Mbps/Max 24Mbps), the HA mode (approx.17 Mbps), the extended recording HE mode (approx. 6 Mbps) and a PM mode (less than 10 Mbps, 720p only), which is ideal for shooting sports training and web video.

With the higher capacity SDXC slot the camera is also compatibility with existing SDHC card support. SDXC is the newest SD memory card specification that supports memory capacities above 32GB and up to 2TB. With two SD slots for continuous recording, the AG-AC160 can record up to 12 hours on two 64GB SDXC cards in PH mode, with automatic clip spanning across the two cards. The two slots can also be utilized for simultaneous recording.

At 50Hz, the camera recorders support the following HD formats in PH mode: 1080/50i and 1080/25p, in 720/50p and 720/25p,; in HA and HE modes, they record in 1080/50i; and in standard definition DV, they record 576/50i and 576/25p.  At 60Hz, the AC 160 also records in 1080/59.94i, 1080/29.97p, 1080/23.98pN, 720/59.94p, 720/29.97p, 720/23.98pN and in 480/59.94i, 480/29.97p, 480/23.98p.

The AC160 offers variable frame rate capability in 1080/23.98p, 29.97p and 25p, providing users the cinematic expression of higher-end cameras which support undercranking / overcranking for fast or slow-motion effects. The AC160/130 include such desirable professional features as time code/UB recording; time/date stamp; and two wired remote control terminals (for zoom, focus, iris, REC start/stop controls). The camera recorder’s lens system offers useful functions including Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) for smooth stable shooting and Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS), which helps compensate for wide variations in lighting.

Standard professional interfaces include an HD SDI output, HDMI output , USB 2.0 (mini B-type), IEEE 1394 output (DV only) and a built-in stereo microphone. The camera also features two locking XLR inputs with switches for mic/line, two RCA audio outputs, and +48V Phantom Power capability. The AG-AC160 records two channels of LPCM audio in the PH and DV modes, and Dolby Digital in all HD modes.

The AG-AC160 offers useful solid-state recording functions including pre-record, interval recording, shot marker and metadata capture. Additional features include waveform and vectorscope display, focus assists, auto focus with face detection, white balance, mode display, zebra display, colour bar, tally lamps, 4-position ND optical filter controls, slow shutter and synchro-scan shutter functions,  a multi-language menu, and three programmable user buttons.  A wireless remote is also included.

For editing or playback, professionals can transfer content by inserting the SD Card into Mac or PC computers or by connecting the camera directly via its USB 2.0 interface.

For easy HD viewing, a widescreen 1,226,000-pixels LCOS colour viewfinder and a widescreen 921,000 pixels 8.8cm (3.45 inches) LCD colour monitor.
Weighing approx. 2.3kg (5.1lb), the AG-AC160 offers a well-balanced, ergonomic design.