The Sony a (alpha) DSLR-A200 camera is perfectly positioned to carry a new generation of photographers into the creative world of DSLR performance. A DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens is included here, as well as superb 10.2-megapixel imaging, high-sensitivity shooting, and Super SteadyShot in-camera image stabilization that reduces blur with a brilliant array of Sony, Carl Zeiss and Minolta a-mount lenses. It’s also fast, lightweight and incredibly easy to operate, with a large 2.7″ LCD screen, simple Function Guide menu display and Creative Style settings to fine-tune camera performance. The powerful Bionz processing engine is also included to increase response time.
Superb image quality gives you great DSLR shots right from the start, with a large APS-size CCD imager developed by Sony to expand dynamic range, minimize noise more effectively and provide greater detail for making big prints or cropping in tight on your subject.
Broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 3200 enables the a (alpha) DSLR-A200 to capture beautiful color images even in very dim light – with High ISO Noise Reduction technology that reduces picture noise artifacts at high-sensitivity ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 settings by eliminating noise from RAW data after analog-to-digital conversion.
A high-performance sensor detects vibrations and the image stabilization system automatically compensates. Because image stabilization is built into the a (alpha) DSLR-A200, every lens benefits – and with an advantage of from 2.5 to 3.5 stops, you can shoot effectively at higher shutter speeds even in very low light with minimum blur from shaky hands or fast-moving subjects.
The “brain” of the a (Alpha) DSLR-A200 is the advanced Sony Bionz Image Processor, using hardware-based Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuitry to enhance images with rich tonal reproduction, improved white balance and exposure control, and expanded D-Range Optimizer capabilities. With 2-channel data transfer from CCD to processor, your camera can also respond faster.
To improve results with backlit subjects and recover details hidden in shadows or lost in glare, the a (alpha) DSLR-A200 provides Dynamic Range Optimizer at two levels: Normal DRO, to improve detail using standard gamma curves for fast shot-to-shot response time, or Advanced DRO, to adjust dynamic range area-by-area for the greatest precision.
Changing lenses in a DSLR can allow dust to enter the camera – so to keep the CCD imager cleaner for better pictures, the a (alpha) DSLR-A200 utilizes both static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter and anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the CCD to dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off.
In Auto or some scene selection modes, the camera flash automatically pops up and fires when needed to help you shoot more effectively. Flash is cancelled in Landscape, Sport or Sunset modes and in “Flash Off” position on the Exposure Mode dial.
Eye-Start Autofocus System begins precision autofocus adjustments the moment you raise the camera to your eye – so unlike some DSLR cameras that don’t start focusing until the shutter button is half-pressed, the Sony a (alpha) DSLR-A200 never slows down your ability to catch fast action.
A fast focus motor and improved focus control help bring images into sharp definition more quickly, with predictive focus control that automatically calculates the position of a fast-moving subject.
A 40-segment honeycomb sensing system provides multi-pattern measuring for superior exposure control accuracy – and you can also select center-weighted or spot metering modes. You’ll also have 6 preset White Balance control settings and RGB Histogram display to check color balance.
Along with auto exposure, the a (alpha) DSLR-A200 gives you scene selection modes to optimize camera performance for Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset and Night Portrait/Night View situations.
To express your creativity and personal taste, you can adjust contrast, saturation and sharpness settings for any of 8 finishing styles – including Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night View, Sunset, B & W and Adobe RGB modes.
A large built-in screen with anti-reflective coating makes it easy to read camera setup menus even in bright sunlight and improves image quality when you check your shots.
To quickly review your photos, the a (alpha) DSLR-A200 can display 4, 9 or 25-frame index views – or present automatic slide shows with fade-in/fade-out effect.
The a (alpha) DSLR-A200 can also create high-resolution thumbnail images for viewing on a Sony BRAVIA HDTV in optimized PhotoTV HD mode, with image format adjustable for standard 3:2 or widescreen 16:9 display.
On-screen menus are intuitive and easy to use – and a simple Camera Function Display can be activated and operated with one hand using the Fn (Function) button and controller button to adjust Flash mode, Autofocus mode, White Balance, Metering mode, AF area and D-Range Optimizer.
To capture action more effectively, the a (alpha) DSLR-A200 offers continuous JPEG shooting up to the limit of your flash memory card – plus RAW Burst Mode (up to 6 shots) with intelligent buffer management to allow more shots to be captured without waiting for the buffer to clear.
You can take up to 750 shots on a fully charged NP-FM500H InfoLITHIUM battery – and you’ll be able to see about how much power remains in percentage increments, so you can keep shooting in confidence.
For conveniently storing and sharing your images, the ? (alpha) DSLR-A200 accepts CompactFlash Type I/II media and Memory Stick PRO Duo media via an optional adaptor.
The Sony a (alpha) system gives you everything you need to expand your creativity in DSLR photography: precision Sony DT zoom lenses and specialty lenses, Sony “G” Series lenses with advanced motorized autofocusing, amazingly bright Carl Zeiss T coated lenses, professional-quality flash units, and over 16 million Minolta a-mount lenses sold worldwide.
Product Specification :
Megapixels :10.2 Megapixels
Optical Zoom :3.9 X
Lens System :Sony DT 18-70mm lens
LCD Screen Size :2.7 in
Recording Method :CompactFlash, Microdrive
Camera Type :SLR
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June 27th, 2009 at 9:13 pm
What sold me was the built in anti-shake. I can use any lens that will fit, and not need to worry about it having anti-shake due to it being built in. The image quality exceeds my expectations. The lithium info batter charges quickly, lasts a long time, and tells you exactly how much battery percentage is left. The screen is nice and big, and bright even in sunlight. It is compatible with past minolta lenses, so anyone with a bunch lying around will love this camera. The ISO goes all the way up to 3200, with noise reduction.
If you are choosing between this and a Nikon D40 (6 MP) of the same price, there are a few things you need to consider.
First, a Nikon is a Nikon. They're good. Sony hasn't been in the DSLR trade for a long time like Nikon has. However, there are pros and cons for both.
The Nikon does not have built in anti-shake, and does not support compact flash (at least I think…). The Sony has 10 megapixels, versus the Nikon's 6. Then there is the feel of the camera in your hands. If you are a Nikon groupie, you will love the Nikon right away.
Well, back to the Sony. The cons? The flash doesn't pop up as high as it's competitors, the lens does not zoom in as much as first time DSLR users will expect (though it has a larger zoom than the Nikon's Kit lens). The dust removal tactic (Sony tries to combat dust on the sensor by shaking it every time the camera powers off) is not extremely effective, though when it works it can be a life saver.
All in all, the Sony a200k (and the Sony Alpha line in general) is a very good choice. If you buy this camera, and you know it's pros and cons, you will no be disappointed. It's very good for ameatures who need to cut back on the price, because it is a cheap camera and any future lenses you buy will not require anti-shake as it is already built in to the camera.
If you are new to DSLR's, than this is the camera for you. I am exremely satisfied, and do not regret anything except maybe I could have spent a bit more to get the A350 with the retractable screen and live view.
This is a good camera that is worth the money.
Pro : Built in anti-shake, dust removal, compact flash support, easy to use, cheap, great shutter speed (3 fps max), light, lithium info battery, 9 point auto focus, eye sensor auto focus
Con : Flash does not pop up high, 18-70mm lens not good for long ranges
June 27th, 2009 at 9:45 pm
The only thing I don't like about this camera is the bracketing features. The camera doesn't allow you to select your own EV preference. The camera's bracketing feature is preset to -.7, 0, +.7. Something to consider when you're making HDR photos. Price wise, I'd say this camera is best priced with its features.
Pro : Price
Con : Limited EV in Bracketing feature
June 27th, 2009 at 10:04 pm
After a year and a half, I moved up to the Sony A-200 from my superb Sony DSC-H2. I am a Sony fan. The A-200 is a joy to use. It has one of the best instruction books I've ever come across. The one for the H2 was awful! Using it with the wonderful Sony 3.5-6.3 18-250 mm lens, I am getting some really fine pictures. I understand the noise level for high ISO's is better with this camera than with the A-100. I'll vote for that. I have taken a number of pictures at ISO with this camera with no noise that I can see.
Highly recommended for first-time SLR folks. You'll pick most of it up in a day or so.
Pro : Super images, Accessable buttons and Menus, Good feel.
Con : Some hunting on focusing
June 27th, 2009 at 10:32 pm
this is amazing!! its was my 2nd dslr after nikon D40x
n its much better xD
Pro : i change the lens to 70-200mm..
Con : easy to use very handy;)
June 27th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
I didnt want to spend unnecessary money on a DSLR camera, the Sony was the best deal I could find: 10MP, antishake included (even though I don't use it much) dust removal, easy to use but with everything that you need and great quality pictures. The body may seem a bit cheap plastic but it's solid and has an excellent grip, the lens is the normal thing for a standard lens, it can be better than the standart 18-55mm though. Also a plus is the compatibility with the Konica lenses.
Overall – if you want to buy an equivalent camera from Nikon, Canon, etc you'd have to spend an extra 200 euros…
I'd buy it again today.
Pro : half the price of equivalent cameras
Con : high ISO produces too much noise
June 27th, 2009 at 11:25 pm
I chose this camera because I wanted a decent priced entry level SLR that wasn't too skimpy on the features. Other than the above mentioned irritants (thats really all they are) this camera is a very good entry level SLR. The RAW files are excellent as is the program provided to open them. If you want a well built built camera, with great features, and at an affordable price, I very much recommend the Sony a200.
Pro : Very good picture quality, fast auto focus, love the nine point focus,button for almost everthing,
Con : Auto focus tad too loud,a little bigger than i'd like, 18-70mm lens seems a little cheap.
June 27th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
The new a200 by Sony exceeded all my expectations when it came to DSLRs. First off, it's ready the moment you turn it on. With the eyestart auto focus on, it starts focusing the moment you look through the viewfinder. Only problem is, if it's hanging around your neck, it's still focusing. It has some nice added features to it such as settings for sunsets, landscapes, and portraits. It can shoot up to 3 fps and can shoot up to 1/4000 shutter speed. Best of all, it can shoot continuiously for an infinite amount of shots limited only by the room on your memory card(if shot in jpeg). The auto focus is fast and accurate and the D-Range Optimizer helps to bring details out from under shades and shadows. At it's new low $499 price tag, it's definitely a bargain SLR.
Pro : features, speed, light weight, in body IS,
Con : mostly plastic, need tweaks to af
June 28th, 2009 at 12:26 am
I just upgrade from the Olympus SP550UZ and the SP570UZ to the Sony A200 both Olympus was like a GEO Metro Car so when i jump in to the Sony A200 was like a F1 fast super fast so if you want fast test drive a Sony DSLR today DSLR all the way i will never go back
Pro : More For your dollar
Con : None
June 28th, 2009 at 12:49 am
Very easy to use, especially if your coming from a P&S. Vast improvements in Focusing speed compared to the A100. ISO 3200 and a reduction in noise. Brighter view finder than the A100. Overall just a great camera that makes it easy to take great pictures. Would recommend this camera to anyone looking for an entry level DSLR.
Pro : Price, Features and takes fantastic photos
Con : None that I have found