Sony Alpha A200 Preview

by Bob Atkins

The Sony Alpha A200 is an upgrade of the Sony A100 (introduced in June 2006).

Like the A100, the Sony A200 is compatible with all A-mount Minolta SLR and DSLR autofocus lenses and accessories (excluding Minolta MD-mount manual focus lenses).

According to Sony, compared to the A100, the A200 adds ISO 3200 sensitivity, 1.7x faster autofocus, a larger (2.7") LCD, lower image noise, a quieter shutter, and adds automatic popup to the built-in flash. Sony has also added a battery life indicator and made some changes to the menu system to make the camera easier to use.

When I reviewed the Sony A100, I was quite impressed with the image stabilization system built into the camera body, which the A200 shares. I was somewhat disappointed by the image noise at higher ISO settings, but if Sony's claims to have lowered noise prove to be true, the A200 should be an improvement and a strong contender in the same price class as the Canon Rebel XT/XTi and Nikon D40 (none of which have body-based image stabilization) and the Pentax K10D/100D (which does).

Newcomers to the Sony DSLR system might want to read the photo.net article "Sony Digital SLR cameras and Lenses," to get some perspective on what the system has to offer.

The Sony A200 is available for pre-order in various packages from amazon.com:

• Sony Alpha A200, 18-70mm kit
• Sony Alpha A200, 18-70 and 75-300 kit

Sony says that the A200 should start shipping in February 2008.

Sony A200 Press Release

LAS VEGAS (CES BOOTH 14200), Jan. 6, 2008 - Sony is advancing the digital SLR category for mainstream photographers with today's introduction of the new a (alpha) DSLR-A200 camera.

The DSLR-A200 model features upgrades influenced by the recently-introduced, enthusiast-class DSLR-A700 camera and replaces the former Sony DSLR-A100 model, which was Sony's first in the DSLR class.

The new model is designed to be faster, lighter and easier to use. Upgraded features include a wider, 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCDTM screen for easy playback viewing; a more compact body and an easily-accessible mode dial; an easy-to-use function menu (camera function display); improved noise control for higher quality images; an auto focus speed 1.7x faster than the previous model; improved predictive control performance; quieter shutter sound; automatic pop-up flash; and a battery life indicator that displays the percentage of battery life remaining so you know exactly when to recharge.

As seen in all a (alpha) camera bodies, the DSLR-A200 camera incorporates Super SteadyShot image stabilization in the body to allow shooting at shutter speeds of 2.5 to 3.5 steps slower than otherwise possible - a benefit realized with every compatible lens attached to the camera. Compatible lenses encompass all Minolta Maxxum mount lenses, in addition to Sony a (alpha) lens lineup - including Carl Zeiss lenses.

"With the DSLR-A200, we are helping consumers capture high-quality images with advanced technology that's practical and easy to use," said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony Electronics. "This model is an ideal step-up for point-and-shoot users who are looking for a camera that can capture virtually all of the photographs they want."

High-Quality Images

With its 10.2-megapixel (effective) APS CCD image sensor, the DSLR-A200 camera continues to offer high-quality images by allowing more light to pass through to each pixel - increasing sensitivity, reducing noise, and providing greater detail.

Clean, reduced-noise signals are sent from the image sensor to Sony's BIONZ processing engine, which processes data-rich picture information at high speeds and reduces picture noise in the RAW data stage before image JPEG conversion. The results are high-resolution, detailed images with rich tonal reproduction.

The DSLR-A200 model supports JPEG and RAW file format support. It has a slot for CompactFlash Type I/II media cards. An adaptor for Memory Stick Duo media cards is sold separately as an accessory.

Get The Photo Results You Want

In addition to Super SteadyShot image stabilization for virtually blur-free photos, the new model incorporates Sony's D-Range Optimizer (DRO). It helps you capture well-exposed images, especially when shooting high-contrast or backlit scenes that often lead to loss of highlight and shadow detail. Sony's DRO modifies the range from highlights to shadows, including gain and contrast, through its in-camera hardware processing to produce more natural, evenly exposed pictures. The camera's image analysis technology studies the captured image data and instantly determines the best exposure and color tonality for the image before JPEG compression.

The BIONZ image processing engine powers the camera up immediately and the eye-start autofocus starts the focusing system before you even press the shutter. The camera can shoot up to three continuous frames per second at 10.2-megapixels at the finest JPEG compression level.

As seen in previous a (alpha) models, the new model carries a static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter which is gently vibrated to dislodge any dust that might have collected each time the camera is powered off.

Additionally, the DSLR-A200 camera's supplied lithium ion battery offers up to 750 shots per full charge.

Bright and Easy Playback

The camera's smaller, more compact body along with its wider, 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD TM screen and a new on-screen navigation interface make it easier to carry and to use. The vibrant, easy-to-view screen features 230K-pixel resolution, an anti-reflection coating and glare-reducing layer assures vivid, accurate colors with a wide viewing angle, even in daylight. The on-screen navigation display shows camera settings and key shooting information in large, easy-to-read text. The display's orientation automatically switches from landscape to portrait position when the camera is turned on its side.

Accessories Expand Creative Possibilities

Sony is providing a full line of accessories for the model, including flashes, rechargeable battery packs and several carrying cases. An interesting addition is the VG-B30AM ergonomic vertical grip equipped with the most essential controls for portrait orientation shooting. It also allows for the use of two InfoLITHIUM batteries (sold separately) for up to 1,500 shots on a single, full charge.

The DSLR-A200K kit includes the camera body and a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 3.9x zoom lens for about $700. The DSLR-A200W kit includes the camera body, the DT 18-70mm lens and a 75-300mm f4.5-5.6 lens for about $900. Both will ship in February and are available for pre-order from amazon.com.

Sony Alpha A200 Specifications

• 10.2MP APS CCD Sensor; 23.6 x 15.8 mm
• 0.83x magification viewfinder with 50mm lens at infinity; 95% coverage
• ISO Auto/100/200/400/800/1600/3200
• Shutter speeds 30 - 1/4000 sec, Bulb
• 3fps continuous shooting speed
• Unlimited continuous shooting in JPEG mode, 6 frame buffer in RAW mode, 3 frame buffer in RAW + JPEG mode
• 40 segment metering plus spot and centerweighted patterns
• Built-in flash, GN 12 (m @ ISO 100), auto popup
• Uses Compact Flash memory (can also use Sony Memory Stick with adapter)
• 2.7in "Clear Photo" LCD
• Size (WHD) 5 1/4 x 3 3/4 x 2 7/8 in (133 x 95 x 71 mm)
• Weight 1 lb., 3 oz (545 g) body, not including battery, lens and media

Readers' Comments

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GungaJim Downs - Denver Area , January 15, 2008; 02:29 A.M.

How does the A-200 sensor compare with the A-700?

Richard Harris , January 15, 2008; 01:19 P.M.

The A200 is 10MP and The A700 is 12MP. The A200 goes to ISO 3200. The A700 goes to ISO6400. The A200 is a CCD sensor. The A700 is a CMOS sensor.

Thats how they compare is basic specs. Wait until we get some reputable reviews (i mean reviews, not previews) until we see how the A200 performs in terms of noise.

William Robinson , January 20, 2008; 02:42 P.M.

I was planning on buying an A100, but now think I might get the A200 instead. I just wish the A200 was available as body only - I inherited my dad's Maxxum 600si with a number of excellent lenses, so I really don't need another one.

By the way, do you think there will be any compatibility issues between the A200 and 3rd party dedicated flashes. I'm leaning toward the Sigma EF-500 DG Super, and it's my understanding that it works great with both the A100 and the A700.

Thanks, Will

James Niles , January 23, 2008; 05:56 P.M.

A grab shot with A100, available light

I haven't checked today, but Sony, B & H, almost every retailer I have seen carries the body only or a choice of "primary" lens, priced accordingly. I love my 100 and am considering the 700, also purchased because I had inherited so many Minolta AF lenses.

Justin Brown , January 23, 2008; 07:51 P.M.

i do not believe that this body is compatible with MD-mount (manual focus) lenses. does this claim come from sony?

Andrew Blyth , January 24, 2008; 04:23 A.M.

I think all Auto Focus Minolta & Sony cameras can't use the MD manual focus lenses, so it'd be safe to assume the same with the A200.

What is the real difference between the a100 and the a200? Really, I don't see much, it looks like an upgraded a100. So, if they did upgrade the a100, what features would have it set apart from the a200?

Douglas Ferling , January 24, 2008; 01:08 P.M.

The A200 is not an A100 upgrade, really. The A100 was a nearly $1000 camera when it was released, and now the A200 comes with similar features (although it has faster AF, better noise handling, vertical grip option, etc.,) but it is gonna be the low end of the Sony line. Sony is expected to announce 2-3 more cameras in between the A200 and the A700 in the next week or so. Stay tuned :)

Richard Harris , January 25, 2008; 03:04 P.M.

We can more or less say that the A100 was a 'quick' or even 'bodged' model put out by Sony asap. They needed to get one out there and they did so very well. Remember there was nothing else like the A100 when it was released and was very successful. It gave them the chance to get feedback from it i guess, as well as work on the bigger picture, of creating a complete DSLR system.

The A200 will lack SOME features that the A100 had, because the A100 was not a "proper" entry level model. Furthermore, a reduction in features allows one to make steady upgrades between the different models, allows more options. Those are my feelings anyway.

I think the A900 will be a very interesting camera, cant wait!

Lars Magnin , January 31, 2008; 08:38 A.M.

Though I planned to buy the A200 (Retailprice in Holland Eur.849,-- for the double lens kit) I decided today to wait a month or two since Sony announced the A300 AND A350 (both with live-preview and CMos) to be available in March.

Luk J , February 25, 2008; 07:38 A.M.

Hi, does anyone know if there is any lens adapter that can allow use of EOS lens?

Richard Harris , February 27, 2008; 09:08 A.M.

Lars, they are al CCD. The A300 is the same as the A200, but with live view. The A350 has a higher MP count at 14, also has a few extra features, non really significant.

Luk, use your EOS lenses on a Canon camera. Or buy minolta/sony fit lenses for this A200. Dont bother trying to mix and match.

mostafa osanlooy , May 25, 2008; 07:01 P.M.

which on will you buy if you dont have any older lenses and a limited budget like me that makes you live for a while with youre kit lenses a200 , a300 or oly e510?