Sony is finally offering a digital SLR camera with the introduction of the DSLR-A100. This is not a big surprise, especially when you consider that according to our 2006 reader survey more than 30% of Total Image readers are planning to purchase a digital SLR camera in the next 12 months.

Key features: 10.2 MP, interchangeable lens, ERP $1499 to $1999

The DSLR-A100 (A100) forms the basis of a complete Sony camera and lens system for enthusiast photographers. Featuring class-leading anti-shake and anti-dust technologies, along with a new CCD sensor, the A100 marks a significant step for Sony in the digital imaging arena.

The camera is complemented by a choice of lighting systems and accessories, plus an extensive range of compatible Sony system lenses including premium optics from Carl Zeiss.

“Many compact digital still camera users are becoming technology savvy and looking to invest more in their photography,” said Marcus Cornish, Senior Product Manager for Digital Still Cameras at Sony Australia. “Building on Sony’s strong imaging technologies and design capabilities, we now extend our expertise to a higher level by offering a D-SLR camera created specifically for enthusiasts and technology seekers.”

“With a highly sensitive CCD and anti-shake capabilities built into the camera’s body, the A100 simplifies superior technology. Shooting better photographs becomes easy, assuring superior results for photographers of all abilities, even when faced with a different range of shooting conditions,” continued Cornish.

Anti shake

With Super SteadyShot anti-shake functionality inside the camera’s body, the A100 minimises blur in pictures caused by inevitable hand and body movements. With this technology it is now possible to take better quality images when using a telephoto lens or in low-light conditions. As this exclusive anti-shake function works effectively with a vast number of lenses currently in the market, any Sony compatible lens that is attached to the body will have the benefit of image stabilisation technology to create clear, vibrant, blur-free images.

Anti-dust CCD protection system

Unique to the A100, it has two features to prevent dust on the sensor. A special anti-dust coating on the CCD reduces static charge build-up which prevents dust being attracted to its surface. The CCD has also been designed to activate high-speed vibrations that cause dust to dislodge easily every time the A100 is powered on or off. Both methods prevent dust from settling on the CCD and frees the user from the hassle of cleaning and the effort when editing out spots on photographs.

Unterchangeable lenses

Supporting the A100, a choice of compatible Sony lens system optics, ranging from zoom, telephoto and wide angle, to macro and teleconverter models will be available throughout 2006. The premium Sony G Series lenses deliver superb imaging quality with excellent light-gathering power and low distortion, plus consistent quality over all focal lengths for zoom lenses. Sony G Series lenses have specially coated optical surfaces reducing flare and ghosting, even when shooting into the sun. High-end lenses in the range are from Carl Zeiss, offering superior levels of optical excellence, performance and reliability. The A100 is also compatible with a large range of Konica Minolta lenses that feature the Maxxum/Dynax lens mount system.

BIONZ image processing engine

Powered by Sony’s breakthrough BIONZ image processing engine and the 10.2 mega-pixel high resolution CCD, photographers can now achieve sharp, vivid and noise-free images from a compact, lightweight body. The APS-C size CCD sensor2 with a RGB primary colour filter assures crisp, detailed images with a wide tonal range and subtle gradations, even at large print sizes.

High-speed continuous advanced shooting

Continuously capture three frames per second for moments not to be missed3. Unlike other D-SLR cameras that require waiting time due to limited buffer memory during shooting, the A100 processes and writes data extremely quickly onto the memory card for nearly instant capture that allows continuous shooting.

Battery life

When out shooting photographs there is no need to worry about running out of battery life. The lithium ion battery with STAMINA technology supplied with the A100 offers up to 750 shots from a single charge4.

Clear Photo LCD Plus Screen

Photos are meant for sharing and Sony has incorporated a large and bright 2.5” Clear Photo LCD Plus display to project high-resolution images. A multilayer coating on the display makes the images clearly visible even under strong sunlight, and glare on the LCD surface is greatly reduced to reveal strong colours captured by the A100. The display’s orientation automatically rotates from landscape to portrait position when the camera body is turned on its side.

Capture the precise moment quickly

Instantly start focusing on the subject by using the Eye-Start AF system which triggers the auto focus as soon as you look through the viewfinder, making it simple to focus automatically without any other manual activation. The centre AF sensor in the A100 has the ability to centre on a wider area giving moving targets and dimly lit scenes sharper detail.

Lighting systems

In addition to its built-in flash, a range of compatible flashes and lighting systems complement the A100. Suitable for use on-body or off-camera, two flashes (available in Guide Number 56 and 36) feature wireless TTL, high-accuracy ADI metering technology and high-speed synch. Best suited to macro photography, a Macro Twin Flash with adjustable arms and Ring Light are also available.

Optional accessories

The A100 is enhanced with a full range of compatible accessories including Lithium Ion battery, adaptors, extension cables and external battery adaptors for off-camera and multiple flash, plus an eyepiece magnifier, angle finder, eyepiece correctors, remote commanders and AC adaptor/charger. There is also a choice of camera cases, lens cases and strap options. The A100 camera will be available in Australia through the following package options:

• DSLRA100B – A100 Body Only - $1499
• DSLRA100KB – A100 Body and Single Lens Kit - $1749
• DSLRA100WB – A100 Body and Twin Lens Kit- $1999

Each package is complete with neck strap, lens cap(s), software, STAMINA battery & charger, manuals and compact flash Memory Stick adaptor.

Entry was posted on Wednesday, September 6th, 2006 at 3:39 am under .  Print This Post