Sony launches Alpha 230, Alpha 330 and Alpha 380

As expected, Sony today announced three new entry-level digital SLRs. The new Alpha DSLR-A230, A330, and A380 replace the A200, A300, and A350, respectively. Some of the new features on these models include smaller and lighter bodies, a more intuitive interface, support for SD/SDHC cards, HDMI output, and new lens and flash options. Here are the highlights for all three of these cameras:

Alpha DSLR-A230

• 10.2 effective Megapixel CCD
• Alpha (α) lens mount supports both Minolta and Sony lenses, with a 1.5X focal length conversion ratio
• SteadyShot sensor-shift image stabilization gives you shake reduction on every lens
• Dust reduction system
• 2.7” LCD display with 230,400 pixels (does not have live view)
• Optical viewfinder has 0.83X magnification, 95% coverage
• 9-point autofocus system
• Auto and scene modes, plus full manual controls
• RAW, RAW+JPEG support
• Continuous shooting at 2.5 frames/second
• In-camera help system
• Dual memory card slots: Memory Stick Duo + SD/SDHC
• HDMI output
• Uses NP-FH50 lithium-ion battery; 510 shots per charge
• Ships in July for $550 with an 18 - 55 mm lens, or $750 with 18 - 55 mm and 55 - 200 mm lenses

Alpha DSLR-A330- Adds:

• Tilting 2.7” LCD display (230,400 pixels), with a wider range of motion than on previous models
• Live view and super-fast autofocus thanks to a dedicated sensor in the viewfinder chamber
• Optical viewfinder is considerably smaller than the A230, with a 0.74X magnification; coverage is the same
• Continuous shooting rate of 2.5 fps with the viewfinder, and 2.0 fps with live view
• Same battery life with the viewfinder; live view battery life rated at 230 shots
• Priced at $650 with the 18-55 and $850 with the 18-55/55-200 combo
• A special brown-colored model will be available

Alpha DSLR-A380- Adds:

• 14.2 effective Megapixel CCD
• Priced at $850 for the single lens kit, and $1050 for the dual lens kit

 Pricing and Availability

Pre-orders will begin on May 18, 2009 at www.sonystyle.com/retail and at selected retailers nationwide. The cameras and a range of accessories will be available in July at Sony Style® retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), at military base exchanges and at authorized dealers nationwide.