Sony has at last introduced its new alpha DSLR, the A700.
It is an impressive digital SLR but somehow seems to miss a few things and to lack behind the Nikon D300 and Canon 40D it intends to compete with.
For one, it does not have Live View. Now, before you blast me with the notion that pro photographers do not need Live View, just consider that the Nikon D3 and Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III — two obviously pro DSLRs — both have Live View.
Live View is advantageous for anyone who does landscape work and needs 100% frame coverage for precise framing. That Sony did not see fit to include it in their latest DSLR tells a lot about the current thinking of whoever is in charge there. Funny thing is it’s not even a big deal technically. Especially since it seems that the sensor used in the A700 is the same one used in the Nikon D300 (which has Live View).
It also still uses the anti-shake system for Dust Reduction but this type of system has been shown to be ineffective. Remains to be seen if Sony has somehow improved on this. An effective anti-dust system is a must these days in any DSLR.
Main Specs:
- 12.2MP
- 5fps continuous shooting
- New “fastest AF in any DSLR”
- Pentaprism for brighter, larger view (95%, 0.9x)
- 3.0-in. 922K LCD
- CF I and II, Memory Card Duo
- CCD-shift Image Stabilization
- Vertical Grip (optional)
- More rugged, environmentally sealed body
Press Release and more pictures (Sony has the best Press Release section of all the manufacturers): Sony A700 | Image samples
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