Sony is introducing its full-frame a alpha) DSLR-A900 camera, aimed at serious photo enthusiasts looking for
traditional SLR performance with the added benefits of digital photography.
It is designed to deliver ultra-fine picture quality with the world's
highest resolution, 24.6-megapixel, 35 mm full-frame CMOS sensor and fast
image processing with a new dual BIONZ(R) processing engine. The camera is
also the first to have a body-integrated image stabilization system for a
full-frame sensor with Sony's SteadyShot(R) Inside anti-shake system.
One look at the camera's distinctive pentaprism and nostalgic body design
will evoke its full-frame optical performance. It features a bright, clear
optical viewfinder with 100% field of view coverage that would impress even
film photography loyalists.
"The a (alpha) DSLR-A900 introduction solidifies Sony's position as a
leading camera manufacturer that can meet the demands of serious enthusiasts,"
said Phil Lubell, director of digital camera marketing at Sony Electronics.
"It represents the best in sensor and image processing technologies and offers
enhanced functions, performance and reliability so photographers can push
their creativity to the limit."
Ultra-Fine Images As The Human Eye Perceives Them
The camera's Exmor(TM) CMOS sensor delivers the photographic expressive
power of wide angles and perspective that only a 35 mm full-frame sensor can
offer, and is designed to take advantage of the resolving power of
high-precision a (alpha) lenses. Its high pixel count and large size provide
enhanced image detail and a wider dynamic range for natural color reproduction
and subtle tonal gradations.
The sensor is produced using proprietary Sony planarization technologies
to ensure an ultra-flat surface across the entire imaging area. Instead of a
single analog/digital converter, the sensor uses over 6,000 on-chip,
column-parallel A/D converters to convert analog signals to noise-resistant
digital signals at the earliest possible stage. The result is reduced noise
and high-speed transfer of data.
Image processing gets a boost in speed and power from the application of
two BIONZ image processing engines. Large amounts of data captured by the
24.6-megapixel sensor can be quickly processed to achieve a fast shooting
response. Additionally, this dual BIONZ processing system applies advanced
noise reduction algorithms producing images of exceptional quality and detail,
especially at high ISO sensitivities.
World's First Anti-Shake System for a Full-Frame Sensor
The camera's newly-developed, body-integrated SteadyShot Inside unit
achieves an anti-shake effect equivalent to shutter speeds faster by 2.5 to 4
stops. This new unit provides stabilization for Sony, Minolta and
Konica-Minolta wide angle, large-aperture lenses, which is difficult for
lens-integrated systems.
State-of-the Art Optical Performance and Responsiveness
The ultra-bright viewfinder with 100% field of view coverage and 0.74x
magnification enables accurate framing and preview. It features a high-power
condenser lens, an eyepiece with high reflective-index glass, and a
multi-layer, anti-reflective coating on every optical surface to deliver its
extraordinarily bright and accurate view.
Additionally, the focusing screen is user-replaceable, with additional
L-type (grid pattern) and M-type (super spherical acute matte) screens sold
separately.
The camera's newly-developed autofocus system consists of nine wide-area
sensors with 10 assist points for improved tracking of moving subjects. A
center dual cross sensor comprised of two horizontal and two vertical line
sensors as well as a dedicated f/2.8 sensor are included to achieve greater
precision, especially when using fast-aperture lenses.
It also offers high-speed continuous shooting of 24.6 mega-pixel images at
five frames per second. A newly-designed mirror box features a unique
parallel-link mirror mechanism that moves on two horizontal axes to
accommodate both 100% viewfinder coverage and the body-integrated image
stabilization system without increasing the camera's size. The mirror box also
has a new moving magnet actuator, a high-powered coreless motor for a faster
shutter charge, and a magnet catcher to minimize mirror bounce and light
refraction within the box.
Versatility to Unleash Creative Possibilities
The model's innovative intelligent preview function takes the guesswork
out of setting up a shot and the hassle of taking multiple shots to achieve a
desired effect.
After pressing the depth of field preview button, the camera "grabs" a RAW
preview image, which is processed and displayed on the LCD screen. You can
then fine tune white balance, determine the best level and effect of dynamic
range optimization, adjust exposure compensation and check histogram data, all
before you actually take the picture. Preview images are not recorded on the
camera's memory card, thus saving capacity.
Other key features aimed to expand creative options include the Dynamic
Range Optimizer (DRO) with five levels of user-selectable correction as well
as DRO bracketing for enhanced scene analysis and graduation optimization. EV
bracketing with +/-2EV range makes it easy to create high dynamic range
composite images.
Thirteen creative styles can be selected to enhance images and then
fine-tune by customizing contrast, sharpness, zone matching and other
parameters, while 3 user-programmable memories provide instant access to as
many as 26 different mode settings.
Powerful RAW file processing control is put in the photographer's hands
with the included Image Data Converter SR3 software that delivers faster file
processing speeds, easy adjustment of image parameters, Dynamic Range
Optimization and a new Peripheral Illumination function that compensates for
corner light fall off.
With the camera's HDMI output and Photo TV HD mode, your creative output
can be enjoyed on a compatible HD television. This mode brings the look of
actual printed photography to the television, by fine-tuning such image
parameters as sharpness, gradation and color.
Comfort in Your Hands
Its construction features rugged, lightweight magnesium alloy with
moisture-resistant, rubber seals for buttons and dials, an anti-static coating
to prevent dust adherence to the imager, and a high-endurance shutter rated
for more than 100,000 release cycles.
It has a 3-inch, Xtra Fine LCD screen (921K) which makes it possible to
check focus and image quality with accuracy. It incorporates an easy-to-see
display with a quick navigation menu to easily access common functions without
interrupting your creative flow. A backlit LCD panel sits on top of the camera
and displays key settings.
System Expansion with New Accessories
The A900 camera will be accompanied with an array of accessories like the
recently-announced Sony HVL-F58AM flash unit with its innovative Quick Shift
Bounce system, powerful performance with a guide number of 58, and wireless
auto flash ratio control.
The Sony(R) VG-C90AM vertical grip offers the same ease of operation when
shooting vertically as horizontally, with its button layout and low-position
shutter-release button. It also houses two InfoLITHIUM(R) batteries (sold
separately) for longer shooting and playback.
The DSLR-A900 body will be available in November for about $3,000 along
with related accessories. All will be available at authorized dealers, at
military base exchanges, Sony Style retail stores
(http://www.sonystyle.com/retail) and at sonystyle.com. Online pre-orders
begin on Sept. 10.
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