Sony Launches DSLR Cameras With Full HD Video Recording: Alpha 560 and Alpha 580

[Zeus]

Sony Electronics Asia Pacific presents its latest additions to the alpha range, the alpha 560 and alpha 580. Consumers with an eye for detail can now enjoy high resolution images as well as Full HD video recording all in one gadget with the 14.2-megapixel 560 and 16.2-megapixel 580. Both cameras incorporate new ISO12800 noise reduction technology, high-speed continuous shooting at up to 7 fps, and an improved autofocus (AF) system to ensure that even the most fleeting photo opportunities are captured.

“By manufacturing all key elements of the camera – image sensors, lenses and processing technologies - Sony's has been able to achieve the highest standard of image and video quality,” says Mr. Yosuke Aoki, General Manager, Digital Imaging Marketing Division, Sony Electronics Asia Pacific. “With the latest Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor and a wide range of imaging features and technologies, the new range helps photographers capture beautiful photos and videos effortlessly in vivid, true-to-life detail.”

Capture Crisp, High-Resolution Images
With the new Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor, the new 580 is also capable of an impressive 16.2 megapixel resolution, while the 560 achieves a 14.2-megapixel resolution. The 16.2-megapixel sensor used in the 580 is particularly notable for its performance. In addition, the 560 and 580 feature a wide sensitivity range from ISO100 to ISO12800, providing an expanded range of low-light shooting freedom.

The alpha 560 and alpha 580 feature the Speed Priority Continuous Advance mode that enables continuous shooting at up to 7 fps, regardless of whether the optical viewfinder or Quick AF Live View is used to frame the subject . As a result, users will find it much simpler to capture fast moving objects, such as runners at sports events or the fleeting expression on a subject’s face.

SteadyShotTM INSIDE image stabilization system has been incorporated in the 560 and 580, automatically countering unwanted camera shakes. Simplifying camera operation for entry-level photographers, image stabilization is switched on by default, making it easier to capture photos without using a tripod or flash. To bring about greater ease, the SteadyShotTM INSIDE system has been designed to work with any lens, so users will be able to enjoy capturing sharp, crisp photos anywhere, anytime.

Fuss-free Full HD movie recording
Full HD movie shooting in AVCHD or MP4 formats is now possible with the new alpha 560 and alpha 580 thanks to Sony’s newly-developed Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor. The sensor has a large surface area which enables it to capture the background defocusing effect, adding a dramatic sense of depth to images when shooting with a variety of high-quality A-mount interchangeable lenses. In addition, the sensor’s large size enables high-sensitivity movie shooting in low light, perfect for filming videos any time of the day.




Improved AF System & Quick AF Live View
The newly-developed 15-point AF system is a high-speed, high-precision AF system that remains operation when using either the viewfinder or LCD screen for live view subject framing. AF speed has also been increased by 10%, so photographers can enjoy fast and accurate AF operation regardless of the framing method of choice. As with its predecessors, the alpha 580 and alpha 560 offer a choice of Single-shot, Continuous and Automatic AF modes, as well as Wide, Spot and Local AF modes, which lets them choose any of the 15 focus points as the point of focus.

Using Sony’s proprietary face detection technology and fast, phase-detection AF, Quick AF Live View automatically detects up to eight faces within the frame, selecting and focusing on primary targets within the camera’s 15 focus zones . Phase-detection AF also provides the speed and accuracy needed to continuously track and focus on the faces of active subjects such as pets and children. The Face Detection feature optimizes settings such as exposure, white balance and the D-Range Optimizer, assuring natural and radiant skin tone.

In addition, the new Focus Check Live View function enables live view freedom in virtually any shooting situation. When users frame their subject using either the Quick AF Live View or the optical viewfinder, a dedicated button on top of the camera lets them instantly activate Focus Check Live View, and use the LCD screen to view the image directly from the image sensor. Both alpha cameras also sport a high resolution 3-inch Xtra Fine LCD monitor that can be tilted up or down by 90 degrees, making it easier for photographers to shoot even at awkward angles.

Advanced Image Compositing Technologies
With the alpha 560 and alpha 580, capturing the city skyline at night is a simple click away. The cameras feature multi-frame noise reduction (multi-frame NR), a new function which enables the camera to capture 6 frames and align them with extremely high precision and speed into a single JPEG image with pronounced reduction in noise. The cameras also offer 3D Sweep Panorama mode, allowing panoramic images to be displayed with excellent dept and spatial effects when the camera is connected to a compatible 3DTV.

The Creative Style effects that have proved popular on other series cameras are also offered on the 560 and 580, and can be applied to movies as well as still photos. Effects include Standard, Vivid, B/W, Sunset, Portrait, and Landscape, optimizing settings such as white balance, saturation, and sharpness to suit the corresponding scene.

The new alpha 580 and alpha 560 will be available in selected Asia Pacific countries from October 2010 and 1Q CY2011 respectively.