Sony just released the second version to their a77 camera surprisingly naming it the a77 II (no mkII, no vII. just II)
The form factor is almost identical to the a77, and it looks like Sony is building on other improvements to make this camera gain market share. Mainly, it boasts a new 79 phase defection AF points with 15 of those begin cross type (will detect both horizontally and vertically).
The focus mechanism also uses Sony’s Translucent Mirror Technology which enables full-time phase-detection AF with fast-moving subjects and during video capture. And lastly, it has some fancy options for low light and moving objects:
The α77 II camera also has a centrally mounted dedicated phase detect AF sensor that supports apertures up to F2.8, ensuring maximum AF precision when using large-aperture lenses. In low light, the AF system of the camera performs admirably, accurately locking on to subjects in scenes with illumination levels as low as EV-2 (ISO100), where even the human eye has trouble discerning details
Other interesting features include:
- On board Wifi and NFC chips that makes any new Sony phones, Tablets or laptop a remote control with a single touch between the camera and device.
- Pro-style Zebra function and audio level metering. There’s also the addition of a clean HDMI® output. That definitely makes the Sony an interesting option for HSLR shooters. Canon cameras at this price range already have those features (assisted by magic lantern), and so does the GH4 from Panasonic. That leaves Nikon behind in the Midrange HD SLR game.
- Dust and moisture sealed design. No spec was released, Or technology mentioned, I would love to see some tests, considering that all Sony’s new phones are water proof.
- Expanded Control and Customization – total of 11 customizable buttons with up to 51 assignable functions
- New sensor and processor , the same sensor that is found in the a600 and a7R, said to be 20% more sensitive: “new 24.3 megapixel Exmor® CMOS image sensor in the α77 II camera features the same gapless on-chip lens structure as used in the acclaimed α7R and α6000 models.
On the external site the old a77 and new a77 II look and feel almost the same, here it s side by side so you can compare, the old a77 on the left and the new II on the right.
If you want more camera pon, here is an all around view:
The camera will be released in June 2014 , and can be pre-ordered at B&H for $1,198 or as a kit with a DT 16-50mm f/2.8 SSM Lens for $1,798.
[via Sony’s Press Room]
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