How To Set Up Timecode on Sony Mirrorless Cameras

March 9, 2023

Step-By-Step User Guide

Sony mirrorless menu

Step #1

The inputs and menus of the Sony cameras are nearly identical so this tutorial will be useful for these cameras.

Step #2

First, confirm your frame rate. Note that the frame rates listed in the Sony menu are inaccurate. Here is a helpful conversion chart.

Conversions:
ā€¢ 24fps = 23.98fps
ā€¢ 30fps = 29.97fps DROP FRAME
ā€¢ 60fps = 59.94fps

Some Sony cameras do shoot true 24 fps, confirm that beforehand.

Sony FX3 and FX30 menu. timecode conversion chart
Sony FX3 and FX30 menu. timecode conversion chart

Step #3

Additionally, if youā€™d like to shoot at a high frame rate like 120fps (which is really 119.88) and still have timecode, use a common denominator frame rate.

For 119.88fps the matching frame rate would be 29.97DF.

Step #4

On your Deity TC-1, scroll over to the frame rate section and match it to the camera.

Next, scroll over to the out type section and select ā€œL-Out.ā€

Sony mirrorless and Deity TC-1
Sony FX3 and FX30 and Deity TC-1

Step #5

These Sony cameras use a proprietary multiport so to connect the TC-1 you will need a Deity C23 cable.

Using the included hook-n-loop, sandwich it between the TC-1 and cold shoe mount, and then plug everything in.

Step #6

In your camera’s menu, scroll down to the camera icon and then scroll down to the “TC/UB” menu.

Sony mirrorless menu. timecode settings.
Sony mirrorless menu. timecode settings. timecode format drop frame

Step #7

Set your ā€œTime Code Formatā€ to ā€œdrop frameā€ or ā€œnon-drop frameā€ depending on your frame rate choice.

Step #8

Next, set your ā€œTime Code Makeā€ to ā€œPreset.”

Sony mirrorless menu. timecode settings.  time code make preset
Sony mirrorless menu. timecode settings.  timecode settings. time code run free run

Step #9

Finally, set your ā€œTime Code Runā€ to ā€œFree Run.ā€

You’re Connected!

Your camera is ready to be synced with the rest of your devices!

If you need help syncing your Deity TC-1 to your other Deity TC-1 timecode generators, here is a User Guide!

Sony mirrorless and Deity TC-1

Connect all your devices to your phone or laptop via Sidus Audioā„¢ļø. With our app, you can control your device’s settings, monitor their status, and sync all your units at once. Learn More

For the user guide to Sidus Audioā„¢ļø Click Here

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Drop a comment down below if you have any cameras or mixers you’d like to see tutorials for!