08.24.2011. What's New in Photography
Hands-on Previews for Sony A77 and A65
Sony Electronics Inc. has today launched two new Translucent Mirror-based cameras for its SLT-series, the Sony A77 being the long-awaited successor to the Alpha A700 DSLR, while the Sony A65 shares much of its flagship sibling's DNA at a significantly more affordable price tag. Both offer a whopping resolution of 24.3 megapixels from an Exmor APS HD CMOS image sensor, as well as class-leading burst modes, low shutter lag, full-time phase-detect AF, Full HD 1080 60p AVCHD 2.0 video, a new OLED electronic viewfinder, and a host of other features and improvements. To learn more, see below.
Review Summary: Making a major leap in the camera market, the Sony A77 reaches into pro territory, able to capture 12 frames per second with a 24.3-megapixel camera that feels great and handles like your typical enthusiast digital SLR. Its optional 16-50mm kit lens also delivers excellent quality for the money.
Pros: Very fast top frame rate; full-time phase-detect autofocus; Full 60p HD video; Excellent optics; Very good high-resolution sensor.
Cons: Heavy; EVF appears dim when used in bright light; High ISO isn't quite up to the same performance as full-frame SLRs of similar resolution (unsurprisingly).
Price and Availability: The Sony SLT-A77 should be available in the US market from October 2011. Body-only pricing is set at approximately US$1,400, while a kit version including the Sony DT 16-50mm F2.8 SSM standard zoom lens will be priced at around US$2,000. (The lens itself will also be available separately a few weeks after the A77's launch, priced at around $700 by itself.) The VG-C77AM vertical grip will be available in October, and cost about US$300.
Review Summary: With an attractive, yet understated design, Sony's hidden some of its finest, most advanced imaging technology in the Alpha A65. Its 24.3-megapixel sensor can capture up to 10 frames per second and shoot Full HD video. And they didn't skimp on the special features, with Sweep Panorama and 3D capture modes as well.
Pros: 24.3-megapixel sensor; Capable of 10 fps; Comfortable, relatively small and light body; Full HD video recording.
Cons: Not available before completion of review.
Price and Availability: The Sony SLT-A65 should be available in the US market from October 2011. Body-only pricing is set at approximately US$900, while a kit version including the Sony DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM standard zoom lens will be priced at around US$1,000.