Camera Test: Sony Alpha 850

Imaging: 24.6MP, effective, full-frame CMOS sensor captures images at 6048x4032 pixels with 14 bits/color in RAW mode.

Storage: Dual slots: CompactFlash Type I/II, including UDMA and microdrives; MemoryStick PRO Duo. Stores JPEG, RAW , RAW + JPEG.

Burst rate: Full-sized JPEG s (Extra-fine mode), up to 34 shots at 3 fps; RAW , up to 16 shots at 3 fps.

AF system: TTL phase detection with 9 illuminated selectable focus points and 10 nonselectable assist points. Single-shot and continuous AF. Tested sensitivity down to EV -2 (at ISO 100, f/1.4).

Shutter speeds: 1/8000 to 30 sec plus B (1/3-EV increments). 100,000-cycle rating.

Metering: TTL metering with 40-zone evaluative, centerweighted, and spotmetering (percentage of viewfinder not disclosed). EV 0-20 (at ISO 100). ISO range: ISO 100-6400 (in 1/3-EV increments).

Flash: Supports ADI and TTL autoflash with Alpha flashes; X-sync at 1/250 sec, at 1/200 sec with Super SteadyShot Inside engaged.

Viewfinder: Fixed eye-level pentaprism. LCD: 3-inch TFT with 921,600-dot resolution.

Output: Hi-Speed USB 2.0, HDMI (mini-type) video, 3-pin remote.

Battery: Rechargeable NP-FM500H Li-ion, CIPA rating, 880 shots.

Size/weight: 6.3x3.3x4.6 in., 2.14 lb with card and battery.

Street price: $2,000, body only. For info: www.sonystyle.com.

Viewfinder Test: Accuracy, 98% (Excellent); magnification, 0.74X (Very Good)