Sony Intros Full-Frame DSLR for Less than $2000

Sony today introduced the new full-frame alpha DSLR-A850 camera and a new 28-75mm F2.8 lens, geared towards the pro photographer. Almost identical to the flagship a900, the a850 has a 24.6-megapixel, 35-mm full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor and fast image processing with dual BIONZ processing engines. It also offers high-speed continuous shooting of 24.6 megapixel images at up to three frames per second.

Other features include:

• Intelligent Preview function: "grabs" a RAW preview image, displays it on the screen, and lets you fine tune it without using up memory on the camera's memory card
• Autofocus system: nine sensors with 10 assist points for improved tracking of moving subjects. A center dual cross sensor comprised of two horizontal and two vertical line sensors as well as a dedicated f/2.8 sensor are included for better precision when using fast-aperture lenses
• SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization: the camera achieves an anti-shake effect equivalent to shutter speeds faster by 2.5 to 4 stops. The anti-shake system stabilizes all Sony, Minolta and Konica-Minolta compatible lenses even wide angle or large aperture lenses.

The camera also has HDMI output and Photo TV HD mode, and includes dedicated slots for Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo, HX series and CompactFlash media.

The a850 (model DSLR-A850) will be available in September for about $2,000 (body only) at sonystyle.com and other retailers.

The new lens announced is the SAL2875 28-75mm F2.8 SAM. It is a compact, general purpose zoom lens with a wide F2.8 aperture over its entire zoom range. Perfect for day-to-day shooting, its bright constant aperture makes the 28-75mm F2.8 SAM particularly valuable for depth-of-field control and available-light portraits.

The SAL2875 lens will be available in November for about $800.