Sony Announces New Full-frame Compact System Cameras

Sony today announced the A7 and A7R – the world’s first compact system cameras outside the range-finder class of cameras to feature a full-frame sensor. The A7 has a full-frame (35mm) sensor with 24.3MP and is complimented by a Bionz X image processor that enables the camera to get high ISO levels and full HD video recording. 

 

Sony today announced the A7 and A7R – the world’s first compact system cameras outside the range-finder class of cameras to feature a full-frame sensor.

The A7 has a full-frame (35mm) sensor with 24.3MP and is complimented by a Bionz X image processor that enables the camera to get high ISO levels and full HD video recording. The camera also features a Clear Image Zoom that helps deliver close-ups without losing pixel count.

The A7R on the other hand sports a higher resolution sensor at 36.4MP. It also does away with an optical low pass filter, which enables the camera to produce high levels of detail.

Both cameras feature advanced movie features including an audio recording and clean HDMI output. Moreover, there’s a Fast Hybrid autofocus system that promises to combine the speed of phase detection with the accuracy of contrast detection. There’s also a new Spatial Object Detection algorithm that aims to provide a fast autofocus performance.

The A7 and A7R also come equipped with an Eye-detection AF that is said to be accurate to a single pupil. There’s also 117 densely placed phase detection AF points that are joined by 25 cross detection points.

On the back of the camera is a tiltable 3-inch LCD display with a 0.5-inch, 2 million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder viewfinder, which offers a 100% field of view.

Both cameras are equipped with Wi-Fi and NFC technology. There are also a number of apps that are pre-installed on the cameras, including a Multiple Exposure app that automatically composites exposures and a Smart Remote Control app which allows for control from a smartphone or tablet.

The Sony Alpha A7 will retail for approximately AU$2,184 (body only) or AU$2,601 (with a 28-70mm lens), while the Alpha A7R will retail for AU$2,687 body only.