August 27th, 2009
Sony announces two new digital SLRs: the A550 and A500
Sony has unveiled two new digital SLR cameras today: the A550 and A500. While not entirely for professional photographers nor direct competition to Canon or Nikon, Sony is pushing onward with these two (very similar) DSLR models, due to be released near the end of October.
The A550, the higher-end of the pair, comes built with a 14.2-megapixel resolution sensor, a 921k dot 3-inch LCD screen, and a quicker burst option called Speed Priority mode. It’s estimated retail price is $950.
The A500, estimated to sell at $750, will include a 12.3-megapixel resolution image sensor, a 230k 3-inch LCD screen and a maximum of 5 fps (versus the 7 fps on the A550).
One ground-breaking feature for DSLR models is the option of face detection in live-view mode. However, neither offer HD video capability, which is going to be a problem if they want to compete seriously with Canon and Nikon for the advanced DSLR market.
For a detailed, comparative look at these two cameras, check out the CNET review here.
Do either of this models pique your interest?
Rachel started playing with her mother's old Brownie camera when she was just a toddler, working her way up from a Hello Kitty point-and-shoot to training on both film and digital SLRs. See her full profile and disclosure of her industry affiliations.
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