Sony launches new DSLR, the Alpha 200
Sony has announced the launch of their newest DLSR, the Alpha 200.
Sony has announced the launch of their newest DLSR, the Alpha 200. Aimed at beginners, the Alpha 200 has an improved 10.2megapixel CCD sensor, which Sony claims should expand dynamic range, minimize noise more effectively and capture more detail. The BIONZ image processor receives images from the CCD via two channels, speeding up the transfer. This new entry level DLSR replaces the Alpha 100, and incorporates some technologies from the semi-professional A700, such as the High ISO Noise Reduction mode (which reduces the noise after the analogue to digital conversion) and the latest Super SteadyShot image stabilisation technology, which Sony claims gives you an additional 2.5-2.5 stops. (An improvement on the A100’s 2-3.5 stops.) The Alpha 200 uses static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter, and also sports an anti-dust vibration system that activates when the camera is turned off. The A200 also features an enhanced Dynamic Range Optimiser (DRO), which should help beginners to correctly expose their shots under difficult lighting conditions. The dynamic range can also be optimised ‘area by area’, which gives the user greater control over their final image. There are nine cross-type AF points, and a new AF motor, which should speed up the camera’s autofocusing. The Eye-Start Autofocus System will start to autofocus as soon as the camera is raised to the eye, which Sony claims will help you to catch fast action shots., especially when combined with the new 9-point centre-cross AF sensor, which has ‘predictive focus control’, which ‘automatically calculates the position of a fast-moving subject’. The scene selection modes are: Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset and Night Portrait/View. Specifications: Image Sensor: 10.2 megapixel APS-C CCD with BIONZ processor Max. image resolution (pixels): 3872x2592 pixels Effective focal length increase: 1.14x Storage media: Compact Flash/Memory Stick Duo Autofocus: 9 point AF with centre cross sensor Exposure metering: Multi segment, spot, centre-weighted Shutter speed range: 1/4000sec to 30secs and bulb. Flash sync: 1/160sec ISO range: ISO 100-3200 equivalent Built-in flashgun: Yes Continuous frame rate: 3 frames-per-second LCD Monitor: 2.7in TFT Clear Photo LCD Plus with 230,400 pixels Live View: No Dimensions: 130.8 x 98.5 x 71.3mm Weight: 532g The Sony A200 will be available from February, and is priced at £369 (body only) and £449 in a kit, which includes an 18-70mm lens. For further information, visit: the Sony Website
