| |
 |
|
| Click photo for more images of the Sony Alpha 100. |
Sony rocked the DSLR world by packing 10.2MP into a lightweight camera based on the Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D -- complete with image stabilization -- and marketing it with a kit lens for under a grand. Result: Our 2006 Camera of the Year.
System Flexibility: Besides 21 lenses for the Alpha 100 now on the market, Sony has additional Sony and Zeiss optics planned for introduction. Right now, Pentax is ahead in the current lens catalog, but we expect that may change. There is always that existing stockpile of Konica Minolta lenses, which includes some exotica along with workhorse lenses. And every optic can become image-stabilized by the Alpha 100. The accessory flash system (wireless TTL automation with single or multiple units, with the built-in unit as trigger) is based on the KM system, which is to say very good indeed. Rank: 5
Control: The Sony is one full-featured camera: numerous image controls, combined RAW + JPEG capture, mechanical sensor cleaning, depth-of-field preview (via a single button) and full compatibility with a TTL flash system, with the pop-up unit doubling as wireless controller. The nine-zone AF is speedy (at some EV levels the fastest of this group), and works down to EV -1. And the Super SteadyShot works very well -- count on a gain of at least 2 stops hand-holdability, and usually 3. Some unique controls include the Density Range Optimizer, which digitally dodges and burns contrasty images in real time. Rank: 2
Ease of Use: Considerable genetic material is evident from the Maxxum 5D, such as the squared-off body, with good position of shutter and location of rear controls. We'd still prefer two command dials, though, for fast manual exposure adjustment and exposure comp. But the top left-hand dial gives quick access to frequently used controls, and the big 2.5-inch LCD monitor doubles as a control panel. We approve of the automatic LCD shutoff when you raise the camera to your eye. Autofocusing can also be eye-started -- which drives some users crazy, but it can be disabled. An obtrusive pulsing preflash serves as an AF-assist lamp. Rank: 5
Image Quality: Extremely accurate and pleasing skin tones, but slightly higher contrast revealed hot spots on hand and less-saturated bright yellow flowers. Blacks and shadows were extremely neutral, and purples, reds, and greens showed good saturation and detail. Resolution and overall detail were excellent and shadow detail high, but contrast hurt the highlight detail. Most defects absent in RAW files. Rank: 2
What's Missing: Sony carries over the unique Minolta Maxxum dedicated hot-shoe, which requires hard-to-come-by adapters if you plan to use studio flash via PC cord or infrared trigger.
Nice Surprises: The silky-smooth zooming of the Sony lenses -- reminds us of Olde Tymes.
Best For: Pretty much any kind of casual or enthusiast shooting, but adept AF and Super SteadyShot make it great for available-light shooting.
Bottom Line: The pioneering camera of this class is an exceptional deal, given its capability and great price. And if you have some Minolta Maxxum equipment, need we say this is the 10-megapixel digital SLR for you.
Test Results: With 1990 average lines of resolution, the Sony is slightly ahead of the Pentax/Samsung twins, but noise control isn't as good -- the Alpha 100 shows Moderate noise by ISO 800, and noise increases to Unacceptable by ISO 1600. Overall image quality, Excellent through ISO 400. Price: $700, body only; $800 with 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Sony AF DT lens. CIPA battery rating: 750 shots with 50% flash. Size/weight: 5.3x3.9x 2.8 in., 1.3 lb, body only with card and battery. Card: CompactFlash Type I/II, Sony Memory Stick Duo cards with the supplied adapter Info: www.sonystyle.com; 877-865-7669.
Click here to read PopPhoto's full test of the Sony Alpha 100 DSLR.
|
