Sony Alpha 700 DSLR features next generation picture quality

Sony today announces its newest addition to the alpha digital SLR camera system, the alpha 700.

Boasting "rugged build quality and pro-friendly features" Sony believes that "the alpha 700 redefines ease of use for such a highly-specified digital SLR camera."

The alpha 700 has new navigation system that speeds up operation - camera settings can be adjusted in moments.

Next-generation imaging quality

Sony claim the key to the superlative performance of the alpha 700 is its all-new 12.24 effective megapixel Exmor™ CMOS sensor. This new sensor utilises cultivated CCD imaging and original Column A/D conversion technologies to deliver higher-speed and higher picture quality. New Sony semiconductors and advanced signal processing techniques are said to produce images with "extraordinary clarity, sharpness and detailing plus rich, lifelike colours, tones and textures".
 
The Exmor™ CMOS sensor performs A/D conversion using dedicated convertors that are located close to each element array on the sensor itself. Analogue noise cancellation prior to A/D conversion is complemented by further on-chip noise reduction once signals have been digitised.

The aim is to gather digital signals that are exceptionally immune from the external noise and interference that can seriously degrade analogue signals produced by other sensors.

Digital signals with reduced noise are then fed from the Exmor™ sensor to the newly developed BIONZ™ processing engine where they are subjected to a further RAW noise reduction stage prior to compression and encoding.

With a maximum sensitivity of ISO 3200, the alpha 700 can grab compelling sports/action shots, atmospheric interiors or relaxed portraits in any available light.

Super SteadyShot optical image stabilisation inside the camera body is compatible with the complete range of alpha-mount lenses. Anti-shake performance has been improved by up to half a stop over the entire focal length range. Equivalent correction now extends from 2.5 to 4 stops (depending on lens, camera settings and shooting conditions). This can reduce the risk of blurred images in situations where a tripod and flash would normally be needed.

Responsive new centre dual cross 11-points autofocus

Responsive, high speed autofocus is a ‘must have’ for any serious photographer. With 11 focus points and 11 lines, the new centre dual cross sensor provides a major enhancement in AF performance under a wide range of real-world shooting conditions. High precision AF can be achieved at open aperture with lenses brighter than F2.8. In addition, lens drive control time has been shortened for object distance calculation and focus position.

An AF illuminator assists with fast, accurate autofocus in low light or with low contrast subjects.