Sony introduces full-frame Alpha DSLR-A850

Today Sony launches three more, covering the midrange and semi-pro markets. The one that is of most interest to me, is the Alpha DSLR-A850, which is essentially a slightly stripped-down version of Sony’s flagship A900 full-frame D-SLR. Here’s what it has to offer:

• 24.6 Megapixel, full-frame CMOS sensor (same as the A900’s)
• Support for all Minolta and Sony Alpha-mount lenses, with no focal length conversion ratio
• DT lenses can be used, though the resolution drops to 11MP, and exposure and vignetting may be issues
• Sensor-shift image stabilization
• Dual Bionz image processors
• Optical viewfinder has 98% coverage and 0.74X magnification (A900 has 100% coverage)
• 3-inch LCD display with 921,600 pixels; camera does not support live view
• AF system made up of 9 main and 10 assist points
• Full manual controls (obviously)
• Shutter speed range of 30 - 1/8000 sec, plus a bulb mode
• ISO range of 100 - 6400 when fully expanded
• Continuous shooting at 3 frames/second (compared to 5 fps on the A900)
• Hot shoe and flash sync port; camera does not have a built-in flash
• Dynamic range optimizer offers 5 steps of correction; user can also bracket for DRO
• Preview feature quickly takes a photo and lets you see the effects of adjusting white balance, dynamic range, and exposure compensation
• Dual memory card slots support CompactFlash and Memory Stick Duo media
• Optional battery grip
• HDMI output
• Uses NP-FM500H li-ion battery; 880 shots per charge
• Ships in September for $2000, body only.

It’s about time Nikon and Canon comes up with an answer to the $2000 24+MP camera.  I’m a Canon owner, and the best Canon can do is the $2600+ 5D MKII.  I’m looking to spend less than that.