subject: Sony Offers A Full-frame Sensor To Its Slt Line With The Alpha A99 [print this page] Sony has announced its flagship full frame interchangeable lens camera i.e. the Alpha SLT-A99. The A99 has a 24MP 36x24mm CMOS sensor, which features on-sensor phase detection and creates a dual AF system that ensures improved focus tracking, as well as, focus precision. Moreover, it also includes the Quick Navi interactive status panel along with a host of superb features for video shooters, such as mic and headphone sockets, a 'silent' control dial and focus peaking for making the most of its 1080p60 HD capability.
The Sony Alpha SLT-A99 aims at the semi-pro and professional market. The camera is the 2nd full-frame Alpha after the original A900 4 years earlier. Both these cameras share the same 35mm sensor size, and more or less the same 24 Megapixel resolution; however, they could not be more different. The old A900 was a traditional DSLR (Digital single-lens reflex) bereft of a movie mode or even Live View, and the new A99 features Sony's SLT design and is packed to the brim with the new technologies. Moreover, the new A99 comes with several key improvements like OLED electronic viewfinder, a 102-point autofocus system, 10 frames-per-second in burst mode shooting and also enhanced video capabilities.
Utilizing Sonys Translucent Mirror Technology, the Alpha SLT-A99 has the capability of continuous auto-focusing in any of its shooting modes. Through replacing the usual swinging mirror that is found in a standard SLR, the fixed translucent mirror of the Alpha SLT-A99 diverts light to both the AF sensor and imaging sensor at the same time. This allows the camera to perform in a full-time phase detection focus mode, getting focus throughout use and the imaging sensor constantly monitors exposure conditions. Monitoring with the EVF and/or LCD monitor is possible, irrespective of the mode you are working.
The audio features of the Sony Alpha SLT-A99 are designed for meeting the demanding requirements of serious videographers. The audio level display and audio record levels are connected by a headphone jack for correct in-the-field monitoring. Moreover, the multi-interface shoe offers balance audio input for the optional XLR-K1M adaptor kit that adds a high-quality mono shotgun microphone, as well as, pro-standard XLR links for dependable audio acquisition.
The enhanced ergonomics of the camera include a re-designed grip, as well as, differentiated designs of several switches and buttons, which allow intuitive fingertip operation. An innovative exposure mode dial lock showcases accidental rotation. A newly-developed Quick Navi Pro interface presents quick and intuitive one-handed access to average shooting parameters and controls. The new model can also be operated via remote PC connection. Other functions include shift between still and video shooting along with automatic transfer of still photos from camera to PC for an improved studio workflow.
