Sony announced 3 new digital single lens reflex cameras the Sony Alpha DSLR-A380, DSLR-A330 and DSLR-A230 for first-time digital SLR buyers to step up from point-and-shoot digital still cameras.
Uniquely Matched to Customers’ Needs
The new cameras are designed to overcome challenges faced by many customers taking their first steps in DSLR photography. Without compromising performance and versatility, the new models are smaller, lighter, easier to use and offer innovative expansion options not found in other systems.
“Our new alpha cameras, lenses and accessories make it easier for new users to get the great photos they expect without the steep learning curve that DSLRs have traditionally required,” said Kristen Elder, senior manager for the alpha business at Sony Electronics Inc. “By overcoming the obstacles, we’ve made it much easier for newcomers to take great pictures with DSLRs.”
Sony Alpha DSLR-A380
Light and Compact
The 10.2 megapixel Alpha 230 camera is the lightest, most compact alpha DSLR camera body ever at 15.9 ounces. The 10.2 megapixel Alpha 330 and the 14.2 megapixel Alpha 380 cameras are also smaller and lighter than their predecessor models (the DSLR-A300 and DSLR-A350, respectively). These cameras are also more compact and feature an intuitive control layout that allows for easy single-handed operation.
SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization is built into each camera body, so every Alpha -mount lens benefits from the ability to minimize blur due to camera shake.
Quick AF Live View System
Both the Alpha 380 and Alpha 330 cameras offer Sony’s Quick Autofocus (AF) Live View technology, so you can frame photos on the camera’s LCD screen as well as in the optical viewfinder. Through the use of a dedicated image sensor, Quick AF Live View maintains the rapid response of a DSLR, while avoiding the focus delay common to other live view systems.
Sony Alpha DSLR-A330
The new cameras feature a 2.7-inch (diagonally) Clear Photo LCD screen that is easy to view even in bright sunlight. Additionally, the LCD on the Alpha 380 and Alpha 330 models can be tilted up or down, making it easy to frame your subject from high or low positions, otherwise difficult to see using an eye-level viewfinder. The range of adjustment has been increased from their predecessors, making it even easier to get shots from difficult angles.
By combining Quick AF Live View and an adjustable LCD, users can frame the scene without holding the camera in front of their face, allowing parents, for example, to maintain eye-contact when photographing their children for more natural expressions.
An HDMI terminal gives you the option of connecting your camera to a compatible HDTV and playing back your images in high definition quality (HDMI cable required, sold separately). Additionally, BRAVIA Sync works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs to let you control camera playback using the television’s remote (HDMI cable and BRAVIA Sync capable HDTV required, sold separately).
Sony Alpha DSLR-A230
The new cameras include dedicated slots for high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC media (sold separately).
Built-in Help Guide
The Alpha 380, Alpha 330 and Alpha 230 models are Sony’s first DSLR cameras to feature a graphical user interface (GUI) with built-in on-screen Help Guide.
The Help Guide offers clear, concise explanations of various modes and settings, while the Graphic Display helps you understand the relationship between aperture and shutter speed, as well as the effect each has on photographic results
Pricing
The Alpha 380L, Alpha 330L and Alpha 230L will cost about $850, $650 and $550, respectively. The L series one-lens kit comes with the SAL-1855 standard zoom lens.
The Alpha 380Y, Alpha 330Y and Alpha 230Y will cost about $1050, $850 and $750, respectively. The Y series two-lens kit comes with both the SAL-1855 standard zoom and SAL-55200 telephoto zoom lenses.
