On Friday, details about 3 new Sony Alpha cameras were leaked. The cameras are set to be entry level cameras which are updates of previous models. They are numbered the A230, A330 and A380 which replace the A200, A300 and A350 line of Alpha cameras.
Sony describe the new cameras as a step up from point and shoot cameras in to the world of DSLR. As well as 3 new cameras being launched, Sony have also launched 4 new lenses, a flash and some accersories.
"Our new alpha cameras, lenses and accessories make it easier for new users to get the great photos they expect without the steep learning curve that DSLRs have traditionally required," said Kristen Elder, senior manager for the alpha business at Sony Electronics Inc. "By overcoming the obstacles, we've made it much easier for newcomers to take great pictures with DSLRs."
Sony Alpha Features
The A230 has a 10.2 megapixel sensor and is the lightest and most compact Alpha body and weighs just 15.9 ounces. The A330 also has a 10.2 megapixel sensor while the A380 has a 14.2 megapixel sensor. Both these 2 cameras are also smaller and lighter then their previous models.
The cameras feature SteadyShot INSIDE(TM) which is a stabilization unit built in to the camera body rather then the lens like other brands. This allows for any camera lens from the a-mount system to be attached and benefit from stabilization.
Quick AF Live View has been added to the top 2 models (the A380 and A330) and Quick Autofocus is included too. Live View works by having a dedicated image sensor to collect the image to display on screen. This allows for a quick response from the DSLR due to focus delay being reduced. All cameras have a 2.7 inch Clear Photo LCD display visible in sunlight. The A380 and A330 models also have a tilting screen to help you frame the subject from higher or lower locations and take more difficult angled shots. HDMI output is also included allowing you to put your images on to a HDTV although there is no mention of being able to capture HD video on these cameras.
Memory Stick Pro DUO, MS PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC memory cards can be used on these cameras.
New Sony Alpha Lenses
4 new lenses are also available for Sony Alpha Cameras. The first is the DT 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens (SAL-1855) which has a smooth autofocus motor (SAM).
The next lens is the DT 55-200mm F/4-5.6 telephoto zoom lens numbered the SAL-55200/2 which has an ED glass element.
Both of the above 2 lenses are available separately or as a package with the camera bodys.
A new lens which is a DT 50mm F/1.8 is a new portrait lens numbered SAL-50F18 which has a fixed focus at 50mm with a wide aperture which allows for the creation of amazing looking shots. The other is a macro lens, the DT 30mm F/2.8 model number SAL-30M28 and is a macro lens capable of capturing detailed close-ups of subjects.
Pre orders are being taken today over at the Sony site.
Costs of the cameras with the standard zoom lens (SAL-1855) are as follows...
* A380L - $850
* A330L - $650
* A230L - $550
The Y range of cameras which come with 2 lenses (the SAL-1855 and the SAL-55200 lens) are priced as follows...
* A380Y - $1050
* A330Y - $850
* A230Y - $750.
Alpha Lens Prices
* The SAL-1855 standard zoom lens will cost about $200.
* The SAL-55200 telephoto zoom lens will cost about $230.
* The SAL-50F18 portrait lens will cost about $150.
* The HVL-F20AM flash will cost about $130.
Via: PRNewsWire
Cameras should be available soon at Amazon or you can pre order over on the Sony site now.
