SONY UNVEILS NEW MAINSTREAM DSLR CAMERA LAS VEGAS (CES BOOTH 14200), Jan. 6, 2008 – Sony is advancing the digital SLR category for mainstream photographers with today’s introduction of the new a (alpha) DSLR-A200 camera.
The DSLR-A200 model features upgrades influenced by the
recently-introduced, enthusiast-class DSLR-A700 camera and replaces the
former Sony DSLR-A100 model, which was Sony’s first in the DSLR class.
The new model is designed to be faster, lighter and easier to use.
Upgraded features include a wider, 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCDTM screen
for easy playback viewing; a more compact body and an easily-accessible
mode dial; an easy-to-use function menu (camera function display);
improved noise control for higher quality images; an auto focus speed
1.7x faster than the previous model; improved predictive control
performance; quieter shutter sound; automatic pop-up flash; and a
battery life indicator that displays the percentage of battery life
remaining so you know exactly when to recharge.
As seen in all a (alpha) camera bodies, the DSLR-A200 camera
incorporates Super SteadyShot® image stabilization in the body to allow
shooting at shutter speeds of 2.5 to 3.5 steps slower than otherwise
possible – a benefit realized with every compatible lens attached to
the camera. Compatible lenses encompass all Minolta Maxxum® mount
lenses, in addition to Sony ? (alpha) lens lineup ? including Carl
Zeiss® lenses.
“With the DSLR-A200, we are helping consumers capture high-quality
images with advanced technology that’s practical and easy to use,” said
Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony
Electronics. “This model is an ideal step-up for point-and-shoot users
who are looking for a camera that can capture virtually all of the
photographs they want.”
High-Quality Images
With its 10.2-megapixel (effective) APS CCD image sensor, the DSLR-A200
camera continues to offer high-quality images by allowing more light to
pass through to each pixel – increasing sensitivity, reducing noise,
and providing greater detail.
Clean, reduced-noise signals are sent from the image sensor to Sony’s
BIONZ™ processing engine, which processes data-rich picture information
at high speeds and reduces picture noise in the RAW data stage before
image JPEG conversion. The results are high-resolution, detailed images
with rich tonal reproduction.
The DSLR-A200 model supports JPEG and RAW file format support. It has a
slot for CompactFlash™ Type I/II media cards. An adaptor for Memory
Stick Duo™ media cards is sold separately as an accessory.
Get The Photo Results You Want
In addition to Super SteadyShot image stabilization for virtually
blur-free photos, the new model incorporates Sony’s D-Range Optimizer
(DRO). It helps you capture well-exposed images, especially when
shooting high-contrast or backlit scenes that often lead to loss of
highlight and shadow detail. Sony’s DRO modifies the range from
highlights to shadows, including gain and contrast, through its
in-camera hardware processing to produce more natural, evenly exposed
pictures. The camera’s image analysis technology studies the captured
image data and instantly determines the best exposure and color
tonality for the image before JPEG compression.
The BIONZ image processing engine powers the camera up immediately and
the eye-start autofocus starts the focusing system before you even
press the shutter. The camera can shoot up to three continuous frames
per second at 10.2-megapixels at the finest JPEG compression level.
As seen in previous a (alpha) models, the new model carries a
static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter which is gently
vibrated to dislodge any dust that might have collected each time the
camera is powered off.
Additionally, the DSLR-A200 camera’s supplied lithium ion battery offers up to 750 shots per full charge.
Bright and Easy Playback
The camera’s smaller, more compact body along with its wider, 2.7-inch
Clear Photo LCD TM screen and a new on-screen navigation interface make
it easier to carry and to use. The vibrant, easy-to-view screen
features 230K-pixel resolution, an anti-reflection coating and
glare-reducing layer assures vivid, accurate colors with a wide viewing
angle, even in daylight. The on-screen navigation display shows camera
settings and key shooting information in large, easy-to-read text. The
display’s orientation automatically switches from landscape to portrait
position when the camera is turned on its side.
Accessories Expand Creative Possibilities
Sony is providing a full line of accessories for the model, including
flashes, rechargeable battery packs and several carrying cases. An
interesting addition is the VG-B30AM ergonomic vertical grip equipped
with the most essential controls for portrait orientation shooting. It
also allows for the use of two InfoLITHIUM® batteries (sold separately)
for up to 1,500 shots on a single, full charge.
The DSLR-A200K kit includes the camera body and a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6
3.9x zoom lens for about $700. The DSLR-A200W kit includes the camera
body, the DT 18-70mm lens and a 75–300mm f4.5-5.6 lens for about $900.
Both will ship in February and will be available at sonystyle.com, Sony
Style® retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), military base
exchanges, and authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin online
on Jan. 7 at www.sonystyle.com/dslr .
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