New Sony Alpha's

I'm not sure how long before Sony will announce the release of the next generation Alphas'. That's right, there seems to be two new upcoming models. Does this mean Double the Trouble for Canon and Nikon?

Anyhow, the two new models will be categorized as follows:

1. A High End Amateur Model - This model is marketed to advanced amateurs seeking higher performance and more specifications than the A100. It has a newly developed image sensor, BIONZ processor and integrated Super SteadyShot.

When you look at the pictures below, this model will not have a spring loaded flash and has to be raised manually like Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D/7D series. As it is based on the Minolta maxxum range, it will be very similar in size to Minolta 7D. It appears to have electronic wireless remote capability, spot/area/center weighted metering selector (focus area selector is not present on the multifunction joystick/pad). As for memory, it takes both CF and memory stick cards. Other buttons present includes DOF, AEL, AF/MF, Super-Steady-Shot, Function, C, 2 multifunction dials, 1 multifunction thumb dial, viewfinder diopter adjustment dial, S/A/C/MF focus selector, IR sensor, Mode dial, ISO button, WB button; LCD buttons - menu, LCD mode, delete, play; and some others.

2. A Flagship Model for Professional Photographer - This professional model is marketed to meet the performance and specification requirements of professional photographer. Again it has a newly developed image sensor, BIONZ processor and integrated Super SteadyShot

It has very similar controls to the high end amateur model except for a couple of extra buttons such as Drive which goes through single, bracket, continuous), no picture modes except for standard M/S/A/P (free space on the dial is likely to be replaced by programmable "memory" modes). Based on the analysis of the pictures, Sony has made only minor changes to the exterior and it looks closer to the Minolta 7000. I'm sure the internals will be awesome. Some say Full frame? We'll see.





























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