The new Sony DSLR-A900 full-frame DSLR camera is scheduled to be released in November, packed with technology for serious photo enthusiasts.
Sony is introducing its full-frame Sony DSLR-A900 camera, aimed at serious photo enthusiasts looking for traditional SLR performance with the added benefits of digital photography. It is designed to deliver improved picture quality with the world's highest resolution, 24.6-megapixel, 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor and fast image processing with a new dual BIONZ processing engine.
 The Sony DSLR-A900's Exmor CMOS sensor is produced using proprietary Sony planarization technologies to ensure an ultra-flat surface across the entire imaging area. In stead of a single analog/digital converter, the sensor uses over 6,000 on-chip, column-parallel A/D converters to convert analog signals to noise-resistant digital signals at the earliest possible stage. The result is claimed to be reduced noise and high-speed transfer of data.
The new SteadyShot Inside unit found in the Sony DSLR-A900 claims to achieve an anti-shake effect equivalent to shutter speeds faster by 2.5 to 4 stops. This new unit, which is the first of its kind, provides stabilization for Sony, Minolta and Konica-Minolta wide-angle, large-aperture lenses, which is difficult for lens-integrated systems.
The Sony DSLR-A900 sports an optical viewfinder with 100% field of view coverage, and 0.74x magnification promises to deliver accurate framing and preview. It features a high-power condenser lens, an eyepiece with high reflective-index glass, and a multi-layer, anti-reflective coating on every optical surface. Additionally, the focusing screen is user-replaceable, with additional L-type (grid pattern) and M-type (super spherical acute matte) screens sold separately.
The Sony DSLR-A900 boasts a newly-developed autofocus system consisting of nine wide-area sensors with 10 assist points for improved tracking of moving subjects. A center dual cross sensor comprised of two horizontal and two vertical line sensors as well as a dedicated f/2.8 sensor are included to achieve greater precision, especially when using fast-aperture lenses.
 The Sony DSLR-A900 also offers high-speed continuous shooting of 24.6-megapixel images at five frames per second. A newly-designed mirror box features a unique parallel-link mirror mechanism that moves on two horizontal axes to accommodate both 100% viewfinder coverage and the body-integrated image stabilization system without increasing the camera's size. The mirror box also has a new moving magnet actuator, a high-powered coreless motor for a faster shutter charge, and a magnet catcher to minimize mirror bounce and light refraction within the box.
An intelligent preview function promises to take the guesswork out of setting up a shot and the hassle of taking multiple shots to achieve a desired effect. After pressing the depth of field preview button, the Sony DSLR-A900 "grabs" a RAW preview image, which is processed and displayed on the LCD screen. Users can then fine tune with white balance, determine the best level and effect of dynamic range optimization, adjust exposure compensation and check histogram data, all before the actual picture is taken. Preview images are not saved to the camera's memory card.
Other key features aimed to expand creative options include the Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) with five levels of user-selectable correction as well as DRO bracketing for enhanced scene analysis and graduation optimization.
Thirteen creative styles can be selected to enhance images and then fine-tune by customizing contrast, sharpness, zone matching and other parameters, while 3 user-programmable memories provide instant access to as many as 26 different mode settings.
Powerful RAW file processing control is put in the photographer's hands with the included Image Data Converter SR3 software that delivers faster file processing speeds, easy adjustment of image parameters, Dynamic Range Optimization and a new Peripheral Illumination function that compensates for corner light fall off.
The Sony DSLR-A900 features HDMI output and Photo TV HD mode. This mode aims to bring the look of actual printed photography to the television, by fine-tuning such image parameters as sharpness, gradation and color.
The Sony DSLR-A900 incorporates a 3-inch VGA screen which makes it possible to check focus and image quality with accuracy. Additionally, a backlit LCD panel sits on top of the camera and displays key settings.
The Sony DSLR-A900 body will be available in November 2008 for about $3000.
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