Sony is aiming at first-time digital SLR buyers with three cameras it claims are smaller, lighter, and easier to use than most competing models.
“We’ve made it much easier for newcomers to take great pictures with SLRs,” the company says.
The α230, α330, and α380 replace existing models.
They have APS-C sized image sensors; the α380 has a 14 megapixel resolution; the other two are 10MP.
The cameras have sensor-shift in-body image stabilization that works with any lens. They can shoot up to 2.5 frames per second.
Sony’s quick autofocus live view technology uses a dedicated image sensor, “to maintain the rapid response of an SLR, while avoiding the focus delay common to other live view systems,” the company says.
The α330 and α380 have live view on their articulating 2.7-inch LCDs; the α230’s display does not articulate, and does not have live view.
The three cameras all measure about 5 x 3.8 x 2.8 inches, and the α230 weighs 15.9 ounces.
Pricing for the three models with a 18-55mm lens is:
α230, $550;
α330, $650;
α380, $850.
May 18, 2009
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