Sony DSL-A200WB


Sony adds new entry-level model to digital SLR range

New α200 features 10.2 mega-pixel resolution, high ISO3200 sensitivity and Super SteadyShot image stabilisation compatible with all α200 lenses

7 January, 2008 – Sony Australia today announced the launch of its new digital single lens reflex (D-SLR) camera, the α200, successor model to the α100 which has been well received since its July 2006 launch.

“The launch of the α200 demonstrates Sony’s commitment to developing the α range into a strong D-SLR system,” said John Wallace, Sony Australia’s Business Development Manager for the Digital SLR division. “The new α200 is designed for consumers looking for an easy-to-use, reliable yet high performance D-SLR camera to meet their photographic needs It’s also a great opportunity for an enthusiastic photographer to step up to D-SLR from a compact camera.”

Positioned as an entry-class model, the α200 combines advanced SLR features and other digital imaging innovations by Sony, offering 10.2mega-pixel high resolution CCD, BIONZ image processing engine and ISO3200 sensitivity, the highest among current entry-class D-SLR cameras.

Its built-in Super Steady Shot image stabilisation, which is compatible with all Sony α lenses, eliminates blurring caused by inevitable hand movements, ensuring sharp and vivid images. Coupled with other proven features such as D-Range Optimiser1, anti-dust protection system, high precision centre-cross 9-point autofocus sensor incorporating Sony’s unique eye-start activation and a long battery life up to 750 shots on a single charge, the α200 is set to challenge the entryclass D-SLR camera market with top-notch performance.

Effective 10.2 mega-pixel CCD, BIONZ Image Processing Engine, D-Range Optimiser and High ISO Sensitivity for True-to-life image quality The α200 features a 10.2 mega-pixel APS-C size (23.6mm x 15.8mm) CCD sensor and BIONZ image processing engine, a lethal combination of hardware and software which pushes the performance of the  lenses to the limits and delivers images that are rich in detail, contrast and colour while ensuring lower noise than ever before. The exposure accuracy and white balance performance have also been improved for a more natural and accurate image reproduction.

The α200 also incorporates the enhanced D-Range Optimiser which ensures more natural, evenlyexposed pictures, especially when shooting high-contrast and strong backlit scenes. The exposure and tone of images are automatically adjusted according to shooting conditions and users can select from Standard Mode to optimise brightness and contrast of the entire image or Advanced Mode to optimise separate areas of the image, resulting in more natural images as perceived by the human eye.

The α200 also offers ISO3200 sensitivity, currently the highest level among entry-class D-SLR cameras. Faster shutter speeds reduce blurring and increase shooting opportunities in low-lit places and the High ISO Noise Reduction feature activates at ISO1600 or ISO3200 setting to minimise graininess of the finished image.

Super SteadyShot and Anti-Dust System deliver sharper and spot-free images The popular body-integrated Super SteadyShot image stabilisation system in the α series has been enhanced in the α200 with an improved control algorithm which enables users to shoot at shutter speeds of 2.5 to 3.5 steps slower. This prevents blurring caused by camera shake and is especially useful for scenes which normally require a tripod or flash.

The α200 also has a special anti-dust coating on the low-pass filter to prevent dust build-up. In
addition, the Super SteadyShot anti-vibration mechanism is activated to dislodge dust each time the camera is turned off. Both methods eliminate the hassle of manually cleaning the camera and editing spots on the image.

High performance centre-cross 9-point autofocus system and Sony’s unique Eye-Start activation With the wide coverage of the centre-cross 9-point autofocus sensor and Sony’s unique Eye-Start activation, the user can automatically focus on the object by looking through the viewfinder and capture the subject immediately. Lens drive time has been greatly reduced compared to the α100 and response further enhanced by employing the same motor as in the high-end α700 model. With the improved autofocus control algorithm, low contrast and fast moving subjects can be easily focused on, enabling quick capture at the precise moment.

Easy to view, large 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus display The generous 2.7-inch Clear Photo Plus LCD display features a high 230,000 pixel resolution for accurate reproduction of the fine details and subtle tones. Its wide viewing angle enables the user to view, playback and share images with everyone viewing the display at any angle. In addition, users can also check the brightness and colour balance of captured images, as well as do fast search for images of the index displays.

Expanded creative styles for image finishing
For the perfect finishing, the Creative Style function allows users to select from eight different preset finish modes – Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night View, Sunset, Black and Wite and
Adobe RGB – to customise the contrast, saturation2 and sharpness of the image and to suit the scene and user’s intention.

Other features

  • High density InfoLITHIUM battery pack NP-FH500H with a long battery life up to approximately 750 shots3 on a single full charge. Remaining battery power is indicated in 1% accuracy with 5-level icon display, enabling precise power management.
  • Built-in flash pops up and fires automatically when needed (in AUTO or scene selection mode).
  • Camera Function Display with frequently used menu list can be called up by pressing the Function button.
  • Continuous shooting at 3 fps can record JPEG images in Fine mode until the card is full4.
  • More precise exposure control is available with 3 metering modes: Multi-segment (40- segment honeycomb), Centre weighted and Spot
  • Bright and easy-to-view Optical Viewfinder offers 95% coverage and 0.83x magnification.
  • Scene Selection offers the best shooting setup for specific types of scenes.
  • Quality picture viewing on a full high definition TV5
  • Easy-to-use software including:
  • Image Data Converter SR
  • Image Data Lightbox SR
  • Picture Motion Browser

Optional accessories

  • Vertical grip – VG-B30AM
  • LCD protective cover – PCK-LH2AM
  • LCD protective sheet – PCK-LS2AM LCD
  • Soft carrying case – LCS-AMLC3
  • Eyepiece cup – FDA-EP3AM

Information: For further information on Sony’s α range, readers can contact Sony Australia on 1300 720 071 or visit www.sony.com.au.