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Sony kills A33 DSLR production, auctions off unused birthday cake
If you didn't jump on an Alpha A33 when you had the chance, you'll probably be disappointed when your eyes glaze over the next few words -- Sony has discontinued production of the translucent mirror-packed shooter. On its site, the company has noted that production has halted in Japan, without specific reasoning as to why -- though some might say that overheating sensor was just too much to bear. It's not often that a seven month-old DSLR gets canned, but if Sony's got a refined sensor waiting in a doubly refined successor... well, that'll put a plug in the waterworks real quick.
Sony's see-through Alpha DSLR gets the hands-on treatment, probably won't get a launch date
We've been teasing you with images of this see-through beauty since Sony announced plans to bring its translucent mirror to the A77. Unfortunately, we've still yet to get our dirty paws on its hard shell, but we're happy to live vicariously through Pocket-lint's hands-on of Sony's clear-bodied Alpha camera. According to its post, the concept DSLR is based on a heretofore unidentified mid-range camera that touts an Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor and "fast continuous autofocus." The camera is slated for a late 2011 release, but chances are it won't come with that sweet transparent body. So soak it up while you can, because this could be the last you see of the crystalline casing -- hit the source link for even more eye candy.
Sony A55 / A33 video recording limited by overheating sensor
So this is why the promo video accompanying Sony's launch of the A55 and A33 was set against a snowy backdrop. It turns out that these oh-so-revolutionary translucent mirror shooters can't keep their cool for any longer than 11 minutes when recording video at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius with Image Stabilization turned on. The A55 is even quicker to overheat at 9 minutes, though it's worth noting that with IS switched off you can obtain the maximum of nearly half an hour of footage -- provided the weather doesn't heat up. Sony blames this on the APS-C-sized sensor within, and it' true that plenty of DSLRs come with artificial time limits -- our D5000 won't let us get past five minutes however we try to sweet-talk it -- but it's an irksome limitation to consider if you're thinking of buying either of these Alphas for their otherwise awesome video capabilities.
Sony Alpha A55 and A33 official: translucent mirror, Full HD video, continuous autofocus
We told you August 24 would be a significant day for Sony, and sure enough, the company has let the translucent mirror cat out of the bag nice and early today. The A55 and A33 offer Sony's brand spanking new Translucent Mirror Technology, which allows for such fine things as continuous phase-detect autofocus while shooting at up to 10fps (7fps on the A33) or recording Full HD AVCHD video. A newly developed 15-point autofocus system is also included, with 16.2 and 14.2 megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensors for the A55 and A33, respectively. Both shooters come with a fully articulated, 920k-dot, 3-inch LCD screen, while 3D panoramas, automated HDR shot creation, and an Auto+ mode fill out the software goodies. Prices are set at $750 for the A55 in October and $650 for the A33 in September -- you can figure out if they're worth it by checking out the early previews below.
Sony's Alpha A580 and A560 leak out with 1080i video recording mode?
If Sony's camera division were a ship, the crew would be shiftily eying the rowboats right about now, because yet another pair of Sony Alpha DSLRs have just sprung out another gaping hole. Sony Alpha Rumors brings convincing pictures of two Alpha A550 successors, the A580 and A560, which reportedly feature 16 megapixel and 14 megapixel sensors respectively. Like their predecessor, both feature 100-12,800 ISO ranges, Memory Stick and SD card slots and a fancy tilting LCD display, but now also reportedly sport 15 autofocus points (up from 9) and a 1080i AVCHD video recording mode. Pricing and availability are still in the cards, but don't fret -- we'll find out soon enough.
Sony circles August 24 for all-new Alpha DSLR launch event
News has been a bit barren on the DSLR front lately (not counting Pentax's color explosion earlier on), but that's not going to last for much longer. Sony is starting up the fall refresh cycle with "never-before-seen" Alpha models, which will be shown off at an event on August 24 alongside the NEX-VG10 and some 3D-capable Cyber-shots. We've no way of knowing what's in store, but if you're in a speculative kind of mood, Sony Alpha Rumors suggests the new shooters will include a semi-transparent mirror (most intriguing!) and a pleasingly fast 10fps burst shooting mode. That's enough to whet our appetite, now bring on the full dish of details already. [Thanks, Dario]
Sony Alpha A390 and A290 DSLRs hands-on
While Sony may have its pricey NEX-VG10 camcorder sucking up the limelight at yesterday's showcase, let's not forget the electronic giant's more humble photographic devices. Just a few steps away we stumbled upon these near-identical Alpha A390 and A290 entry-level DSLRs, with the former donning a tilting LCD and live view capability to live up to its bigger price tag. We can't comment on picture quality due to the lack of sample shots, but we were certainly impressed by both cameras' build quality -- kudos to Sony for the much improved grip, and we also liked the firm chassis (plus its various knobs and flaps) that didn't feel cheap despite sounding hollow. On a similar note, the 2.7-inch LCD looked sharp and served us well for all purposes, although we didn't get to test it outdoor. What really bewildered us was the lens continuously auto-focusing while the camera remained stationary -- that couldn't be good for the battery, and we'd like to see how battery life fares in upcoming reviews. Anyhow, enjoy our hands-on photos.%Gallery-97621%
Sony NEX-5 preview
In every geek's life, the time must come when he or she steps away from the pocket-friendly compact point-and-shooter and straps up with a hefty DSLR to do real photography with. Or such was the received wisdom until not too long ago. It's still the case that lenses, bound by the laws of physics, will protrude more than most of us want them to, but mirrorless Micro Four Thirds shooters from Olympus and Panasonic, along with Samsung's NX series, have shown that prosumer camera bodies don't always have to be that bulky. This is the stage upon which the NEX-5 enters, with Sony predictably aiming to outdo everyone using an ultraslim magnesium alloy body that delivers 1080p video and 14 megapixel stills. Join us after the break to see what we thought of the Japanese giant's latest product.%Gallery-95474%%Gallery-95477%
Sony NEX-5 pops up in UK for £589, no waiting required
Stock of Sony's premier new compact system camera is still pretty scarce on the ground, but British photography retailer Jessops has managed to round up a batch and is ready to ship you one right this minute. Provided, that is, that you're equipped with £589 ($867) and a lusting for the silver variety of the NEX-5. The swarthy variant and the kit that includes a 16mm pancake lens are not yet ready for their time in the spotlight, but you can pre-order them now as well. Or, should your needs not stretch to quite such stratospheric heights, peek out the NEX-3, which can already be had from US e-tailers at far saner price tags. See the mini shooter in-store after the break. [Thanks, David]
Sony's NEX-3, NEX-5 interchangeable lens cameras get reviewed
Sony's NEX-3 and NEX-5 cameras certainly boast the features to get any camera nerd excited -- interchangeable lenses in a form factor smaller than Micro Four Thirds but with an image sensor 50% bigger -- but the big question remaining is how they'll actually hold up in use. Unfortunately, according to Digital Photography Review at least, the cameras seem to be a bit of a mixed bag. While the site says that they are unquestionably a "brave and interesting attempt to redefine the camera," it says that they also represent a "distinctly unsteady first step." The biggest problem with them, it seems, is that the much of the high-end capabilities of the cameras are hindered by "one of the strangest interfaces" seen in some time, which the site says is confusing at times and "actively unhelpful" at others. Both cameras are also said to suffer from poor startup and shot-to-shot times, lackluster battery life, and a video mode that offers high quality video but decidedly limited controls. On the upside, the cameras do apparently mostly deliver the goods when it comes to image quality (especially with their high ISO capabilities), and the build quality is said to be solid, particularly on the NEX-5. Still looking for more? Hit up the link below for the full review.
Sony Alpha NEX-5 in the wild, plays David to A330's Goliath
Talk about envy. One of our lucky tipsters just wrote in to talk about the training he did this week for -- and here's the kicker -- Sony's brand new Alpha NEX-5. Just to prove his conquest, he also managed a picture of the compact DSLR next to the Alpha 330. Yep, it's still really, really small. If that's not enough, the tipster apparently also will be able to use the SAM and SSM Sony lenses, both with functional autofocus. We know what you're probably thinking: the pre-order details are right here. Update: Perpetual Radio has some hands-on impressions and a video (embedded after the break). Go forth!
Sony Alpha NEX cameras now up for pre-order, start at $549 in US, €499 in Europe (updated)
Listen, you've had enough time to think on it -- just over 24 hours, to be less imprecise -- and now it's time to make a monetary decision on Sony's Alpha NEX-3 / 5 interchangeable lens cameras. Pre-orders are now being accepted via the online Sony Style store; each camera comes as a kit with either the 16mm lens, or for an extra $50 the 18-55mm. Thus, we're looking at a minimum of $549.99 for the NEX-3 with 16mm, up to a penny under $700 for the NEX-5 with the more versatile eye. Lenses aren't yet sold separately, so make your choice wisely, and while you can gawk at the accessories -- optical viewfinder, A-mount lens adapter, and stereo mic, among others -- they're not yet taking your credit card details for anything but the kit right now. What's that... you wanted the camcorder? Keep dreaming, for now. [Thanks, Julio] Update: The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are now also available for pre-order in Europe (kitted out with the 16mm glass) at price points of €599 and €499, respectively. [Thanks, Edin]
Sony gives NEX3 and NEX5 names to its first ultra-compact interchangeable lens cameras
Those ultra-mysterious folks at Sony are finally starting to loosen their grip on info about the Japanese giant's entry into the growing market for compact interchangeable lens cameras. Having already witnessed some of the user interface and a few prototype bodies, we're now seeing the first shots of these new shooters in the wild. Spotted in an Asian pub (what is it with drinking establishments and hardware leaks?), the mirrorless NEX3 body reveals its name, an external flash attachment (with a proprietary connector, boo!), and a a chrome-finished 16mm F2.8 pancake lens. It doesn't look very pancakey to us, and indeed Sony Alpha Rumors claim it's bigger than the nearest competitors from Olympus and Panasonic, but apparently that's because Sony has included optical image stabilization in the lens, perhaps a worthy trade-off. Both new models are expected to sport the 14 megapixel ExmorHD sensor, though the NEX5 will record 1080p video versus the NEX3's 720p. We're told to expect a May 11 announcement for the pair, with what's being described as "very aggressive" pricing relative to their Micro Four Thirds competition. Let it be so.
Sony's ultra-compact concept shooter will come with an APS sensor, UI shows up on video
Yesterday we brought you pictures of the touchscreen-loving user interface on Sony's genre-straddling camera concept, so what better way to improve on that than with video and a few specs? Beyond the break you shall find one of those excessively stylized promotional vids you know and love to hate, but tolerating the fluff with reward you with some nice hints about how the shooter is operated plus finally some word on what's inside. An Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor is touted, along with the accompanying capability to shoot 1080p AVCHD video. While we still find the design of these interchangeable lens cameras ridiculously appealing, there is one thing we have to complain about and that's the clunky naming scheme. Please Sony, give us something sexier to call it than an "ultra-compact camera concept" -- how about the Sony Beta, it comes after Alpha and is typically used to denote an unfinished product. You can have that one for free.
PMA 2010... and that's a wrap, folks
We had a great time in Anaheim this past weekend checking out the Photo Marketing Association's trade show spectacle. Hundreds of cameras and thousands of pictures later, we're finally back and getting settled. Let's take a look back at all that we saw this week, and then kind of wrap up a few loose ends. GE's 'Create by Jason Wu' camera collection unveiled, we go hands on Joby Gorillapod Magnetic flexible tripod hands-on Nikon CoolPix 'Style' and 'Life' series hands-on Pentax's rugged W90, ultra-zoom X90 now all but official Samsung TL500 and TL350 hands-on Samsung PMA roundup: hands on HMX-U20, eyes on AQ100 and SL605 Sony Alpha ultra-compact concept hands-off: leaves much to the imagination Sony's ultra-durable DSC-TX5 hands-on: ice, ice, baby Sigma trio espied at PMA, COO expresses interest in supporting 'mirrorless camera systems' %Gallery-86335% %Gallery-86558% %Gallery-86556%
Sony Alpha A750 keeps with tradition, leaks out ahead of release
Minolta's Sony's DSLR range was refreshed only this August, but here we are, hearing rumblings of another new addition to the bunch. Set to occupy the space between the 14.2 megapixel A550 and 24.6 megapixel full frame A850, the imaginatively titled A750 is expected to strike the perfect balance between the two with a 14.6 megapixel full frame sensor. We see what you did there, Sony, very clever. If you ask us, anything over a solid dozen million pixels is overkill and just asking for noise trouble and processing lag, so in fact chopping a third off the A850's pixels could turn out to be quite a boon for overall image quality. Then again, we've no idea what else Sony might sever from its higher offering, though we're likely to find out by CES 2010 at the latest. [Thanks, David G]
Sony debuts Alpha A850, A550 and A500 DSLRs
Sony's really hitting two sweet spots this morning with its new (or, newly confirmed) full-frame A850 (pictured) and mid-range A550 and A500 DSLR additions to the Alpha family. The rumors were basically dead on, with the A850 offering a slight reduction to the A900's skillset while keeping on the exact same 24.6 megapixel sensor -- and nabbing a $1,000 or so price cut in the process (it's now landing at around $2,000). The A550 and A500, meanwhile, fill in any perceived gaps in the Alpha line with 14.2 and 12.3 megapixel sensors, respectively. They also both score tilt-out LCDs akin to the poorly-received A380, with the A550 sporting a much higher resolution screen than its sibling. Still, even with the other minor tweaks present, we're not sure how reasonable the $200 price difference between the two cameras is: the A550 goes for $950 ($1050 with a kit lens), while the A500 hits at $750 ($850 with a kit). The glaring omission in all of these cameras, of course, is video recording -- something that Sony's various competition is sporting in a majority of these pricepoints. A head scratcher, to be sure. Read - Sony Alpha A550 and A500 Read - Sony Alpha A850 Read - Sony Alpha A550 hands-on preview
Sony Alpha 380 gets lukewarm reviews, must be someone's perfect bowl of porridge
The leading model of Sony's "upper entry level" trifecta of Alpha-branded shooters, the 14.2 megapixel DSLR-A380, has been hitting test benches lately and we've rounded up the results for your perusal. The consensus appears to be that Sony has focused on bringing fans of compact cams up to the big time, with its uniquely responsive Live View and straightforward usability. Alas, ease of use is not the only thing brought up from the little leagues, with comparatively poor output at ISO 400 and above, lack of any video recording (which can be found on the Canon EOS 500D and Nikon D5000, its nearest competitors) and unsatisfying viewfinder ergonomics. Conclusion? If you were looking for a point-and-shoot on steroids, your search is at an end, young hobbit -- but photography enthusiasts should probably look elsewhere. Read - DP Review Read - CNET review Read - Camera Labs review Read - Photo Review
Sony's Alpha 230, 330 and 380 DSLRs get flood of official pics
Sony's latest mainstream DSLRs cameras got the seal of officialness this past Saturday, and now the company's added some icing to the cake by releasing of plethora of pictures for its α230, α330, and α380. Direct your eyes lovingly at the articulating screens and SD/SDHC card slots in the gallery below. Pre-orders for the trio are supposed to start today at Sony's official retail site, but as of this writing, they're not yet there.
Sony confirms new Alpha 230, 330 and 380 mainstream DSLRs
Sony's been pretty generous with the Alpha leaks in the run up to this launch, but it looks like this new trio of DSLRs for "first time" SLR buyers, the Alpha 230, 330 and 380, is ready to go. The press release confirms all of what we already knew, along with bringing word that the cameras will support SD/SDHC cards in addition to Sony's still-kicking Memory Stick format. The best news is in pricing, however: the shooters will retail in two different kit types, with the L-series cams ringing in at $550, $650 and $850, respectively, when paired with the SAL-1855 standard zoom lens. The Y kit series adds a second lens, the telephoto SAL-55200, along with bumping the kit price $200 across the board. Pre-orders will start on May 18th, with the cameras becoming available in July. Oddly, while parts of the press site are live, the press shots are still on lockdown, beyond a nice stack of thumbnails -- we'll keep you posted.[Via Photo Rumors]
