Sony's $700 dSLR looks like a contender
Sony Alpha DSLR-A200K
(Credit: Sony Electronics)Though Sony's Alpha DSLR-A100 currently occupies the price slot of an entry-level dSLR, that's just an accident of time, a midrange model that stayed too long at the party. Sony's first true foray into the entry-level market arrives in the Alpha DSLR-A200, slipping into the market niche currently hogged by the Nikon D40x and Canon EOS Rebel XTi. Preliminary specs include:
- 10-megapixel, 23.6mm x 15.8mm Super HAD CCD
- ISO 100 to 3200
- Super SteadyShot sensor-shift image stabilization
- 9-point AF sensor with single cross-type sensor in center
- 40 segment exposure metering system
- 230,000-pixel 2.7-inch LCD
- Maximum burst speed 3fps (unlimited JPEG, 3 frames Raw+JPEG, 6 frames Raw)
- Viewfinder 95 percent coverage, .83x magnification
On one hand, the A200 seems to compare quite favorably to the Nikon and Canon competition--it delivers the same (D40x) or better (XTi) resolution and similar rated performance, but with the added attraction of the in-body stabilization, large LCD and user interface that I liked so much on the A700. But those models have been out in the market for a while already and likely due for a rev any minute now. (Given Nikon and Canon's histories, however, it's unlikely that either update would include in-body image stabilization.)
The $699 DSLR-A200K kit will include the f3.5-5.6 DT 18-70mm lens, while a dual-lens DSLR-A200W kit bundles an additional f4.5-5.6 75-300mm lens for $899. Both will ship in February.
On Sale Now:
$498.99
- $499.77
View the latest prices for Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 (with 18-70mm lens)
On Sale Now:
$661.08
- $699.99
View the latest prices for Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 (18-70mm and 75-300mm dual lens kit)
Senior Editor Lori Grunin has been covering digital imaging for two decades, but her memory's kind of sketchy on the details. You can hear about it every week on Indecent Exposure, the podcast she co-hosts with Matt Fitzgerald.
View complete CES 2008 coverage from CNET.
The major difference is in the image stabilization. Sony's is sensor based, which means you can put an old Minolta lens on the camera (say you find one cheap on eBay or something), and still enjoy the modern luxury of image stabilization.
With the Canon, all stabilization is in the lens, which means you have to buy lenses tha tinclude IS (of VR if you are using the Nikon D40x, which is also a similar camera). When you compare the price of IS and VR lenses to non, you quickly realize how valuable it is to have the stabilization "in body".
Can you elaborate more about your issues with Vista. I'm new to the DSLR and am looking at one to buy. i recently bout a new PC with Viasta Home Premium. I wanted to make sure i would have any issues using the camera and my new PC. I'd appreciate the feedback if you have a sec. thanks!
Included Wireless flash control.. (add $160+ to Cost of Canon)
Stabilization on ALL lenses
Better Kit Lens than Canon
Sport Metering the Canon doesn't have
Dynamic Range Optimizer (Canon doesn't have)
Easier User Interface to control the camera.
And Auto bracketing that the Nikon D40x doesn't have
Ya I guess your right it doesn't quite match up.. because the paint used to write the Canon name on the front is more important that photography features ...
Simple if anyone wants to buy an entry level camera on features and ability they should look at Canon and Nikon last because they remove features that Sony, Pentax, and Olympus give you in the same range.
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by pavpare
January 15, 2008 10:23 AM PST
- Very very perfect,and I wish to have one of this SONY CAMERA'S product as soon as possible.
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