Sony Alpha A350 and A300 DSLR Cameras Announced
Sony has introduced two new Alpha digital SLR cameras with "live-view" shooting, Sony's new Quick AF Live View technology that lets you frame photos on the cameras' LCD. The 10.2-megapixel DSLR-A350 camera and 14.2-megapixel DSLR-A300 feature Sony's innovative Pentamirror Tilt mechanism which, Sony says, "directs light to a dedicated live view image sensor, enabling fast and responsive TTL phase-detection auto-focusing, even during live view." The new variable angle 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD screen, seen above, lets you frame scenes from high or low positions.
The Sony DSLR-A300 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens will ship in April for about $800. Expect the DSLR-A350 camera body to be available in March for about $800, and the DSLR-A350 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 3.9x zoom lens will be priced at about $900. Pre-orders begin online today at www.sonystyle.com/dslr
Both Alpha cameras feature APS-C CCD image sensors, a BIONZ processing engine, Super SteadyShot image stabilization for low light shots, Sony's D-Range Optimizer, and high sensitivity operation at ISO 1600 and 3200 with user-selectable high-ISO noise reduction features.
The DSLR-A300 model can shoot about three continuous frames per second and the DSLR-A350 model can shoot up to two-and-a-half continuous frames per second, when using the optical viewfinder. Both are powered by the Bionz processing engine and supplied InfoLITHIUM battery for fast start-up times, quick response and long battery life - up to 730 shots per full charge when using the optical viewfinder and up to 410 shots per full charge in live-view mode.
Both models feature lighter, slimmer bodies for easy handling; an improved user interface; an automatic pop-up flash; a comfortable camera grip with an easily accessible mode dial; an anti-dust system to keep the CCD image sensor clean for spot-free pictures; and JPEG and RAW file format support. Both have a slot for CompactFlash Type I/II media cards.
An adaptor for Memory Stick Duo media cards is also available for the cameras and sold separately. The new DSLR-A300 and DSLR-A350 cameras are compatible with a range of accessories, including the ergonomic Sony VG-B30AM vertical grip. Also available as an option is the new Sony HVL-F42AM flash unit. It offers advanced features such as automatic white balance adjustment with color temperature information, adjustable bounce angles, ADI metering and wireless remote operation to suit the needs of most photographers.
