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Ricoh Upgrades 360 Image Quality with THETA Z1; More Info at B&H
[February 26, 2019]

Ricoh Upgrades 360 Image Quality with THETA Z1; More Info at B&H


B&H Photo would like to share the announcement of the Ricoh THETA Z1 360 Camera. This latest model to Ricoh's immensely popular 360-degree camera series is now the flagship and boasts the best image quality ever delivered by the company in 360 degrees. Much of this improvement is due to the use of large 20MP 1" back-illuminated CMOS sensors and an updated image processing algorithm that enable stills capture at up to 23MP (6720 x 3360) and recording of 4K (3840 x 1920) video at 30 fps and with 3-axis stabilization.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190226005291/en/

High-quality 360-degree footage is the future, and Ricoh is jumping right in with a brand-new flagsh ...

High-quality 360-degree footage is the future, and Ricoh is jumping right in with a brand-new flagship-the THETA Z1. This is the best THETA ever released, with a huge leap in image quality being made possible using two 20MP 1" back-illuminated CMOS sensors. (Photo: Business Wire)

Larger sensors also mean better image quality in more situations, because the sensitivity can be boosted to ISO 6400, and there is a multi-level aperture mechanism with three levels of control. Beyond the sensors, the Ricoh Z1 has a redesigned image processing algorithm that will help create the sharpest and cleanest images possible in any given situations. Dynamic Range compensation is automatically applied to limit loss of detail from blown-out highlights and deep shadows. There are plenty of other modes to choose from, as well, including HDR (News - Alert) Rendering, Interval Composite, and Multi-bracket shooting.

Ricoh THETA Z1 360 Camera

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1462792-REG/ricoh_910778_theta_z1_360_camera.html

Product Highlights

  • Highly Accurate 360° Image Stitching
  • Dual 6720 x 3360 1" Type CMOS Sensos
  • 360° 4K Videos and 23MP Photos
  • Selectable f/2.1, 3.5, 5.6 Aperture
  • 360° Live Streaming in 4K or 2K
  • Twin (News - Alert)-Lens System with 4-Channel Mics
  • 19GB of Internal Memory
  • Edit with Lightroom Classic CC & Plug-In
  • THETA+ Android (News - Alert) App
  • Status Display, Magnesium Alloy Body



Image quality is important and, for professionals, there are numerous options for manual control. This includes aperture-, shutter-, and ISO-priority modes, in addition to full manual operation (manual mode requires the use of a smartphone). The previously mentioned multi-level aperture now provides the choice of f/2.1, f/3.5, and f/5.6 for handling bright situations. Still images can be saved as DNG raw files for maximum flexibility while RICOH THETA Stitcher for Adobe (News - Alert) Photoshop Lightroom CC makes editing easier. Backing up this image quality is a four-channel microphone array for 360-degree spatial audio recording. With 360-degree audio and video being recorded, the Z1 will provide a completely immersive virtual reality viewing experience.

Massive changes to the imaging pipeline, fortunately, did not mean a change in overall design, with the THETA Z1 using tri-fold structure technology for a thickness of just 24mm. A 0.93" OLED display provides rapid access to essential shooting settings and information. A new function button can then help you switch between display modes and select modes. The body is also tough, with magnesium-alloy construction and a luxurious texture. Tripod screw holes are metal for durability and it uses the now-standard USB 3.0 Type-C connection for fast transfer.


Connectivity and upgradeability are an important part of the THETA system and the Z1 features both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth built in. The THETA+ app makes it simple to share and edit photos and an internal capacity of 19GB can hold up to 2400 JPEGs without issue. Coming soon is a new feature called Time-shift Shooting that will make it possible to capture images without the photographer being in the frame. New accessories include Lens Caps and a Semi-Hard Case.

About B&H Photo Video

As the world's largest source of photography, video, and audio equipment, as well as computers, drones, and home and portable entertainment, B&H is known worldwide for its attentive, knowledgeable sales force and excellent customer service, including fast, reliable shipping. B&H has been satisfying customers worldwide for 40 years.

Visitors to the website can access a variety of educational videos and enlightening articles. The B and H YouTube Channel has an unmatched wealth of educational content. Our entertaining and informative videos feature product overviews from our in-house specialists. You can view the B&H Event Space presentations from many of the world's foremost experts and interviews with some of technology's most dynamic characters. Tap into this exciting resource by subscribing to the B&H YouTube (News - Alert) Channel here. In addition to videos, the B&H Explora blog presents new product announcements, gear reviews, helpful guides, and tech news written by product experts and industry professionals.

When you're in Manhattan, take a tour of the B&H Photo SuperStore, located at 420 Ninth Avenue. The techno-carousel spins all year round at the counters and kiosks at B&H. With hundreds of products on display, the B&H Photo SuperStore is the place to test-drive and compare all the latest gear.


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