Sony A700 DSLR : Review

Rating:

4.2 out of 5

Value

If you were a fan of the Maxxum 7D from Minolta, the A700 is simply an upgraded version with all the new bells and whistles one could ask for from Sony. Sony has made improvements in many categories and really spent the time necessary to make a quality camera. No exceptional camera is inexpensive per se, but the A700 is worth the $1200 - $1400 you can spend for it. There is a lot of tough competition in this category but the A700 holds its weight and definitely contends. Of course there are certain features that go back and forth between its competitors and ultimately, the decision is yours, but if you're in the market for a DSLR, do not overlook the A700.

Features

So many great features to talk about. Many times you will go to a website like Sony's for instance and see a lot of fluff to bolster the features section, but the A700 really does have a lot to talk about. For instance, there are four different auto focusing modes, which can be viewed looking at the LCD or through the viewfinder alike. Speaking of the LCD screen, it is a crystal clear 640x480 resolution. PC sync port for external lighting, interchangeable focus screens, and many buttons that give quick access to important options and so much more on top of what I already listed above. Sony has designed a solid camera with magnesium alloy casting and body panels as well as seals to help protect the camera from environmental concerns. While not water proof, they are calling it dust and moisture proof. At 20.5 ounces it's easy to hold and maneuver. The hand grip is grooved nicely and feels comfortable and the buttons are placed in a convenient manner. The large LCD screen is placed nicely and makes taking pictures a cinch. Picture quality comes out great with the 12.2 megapixel CMOS processor. Transfer from the camera is also lightening fast taking away the need for a card reader. It is designed with the semi-pro or professional photographer in mind. Accuracy and speed are extremely important to most photographers and the A700 fits that bill. If 5 frames per second at 12 megapixels with the Sony BIONZ chip doesn't say anything about its capability, how about the revamped image stabilization and the all new shutter mechanism. Sony has really made an attempt to impress even the savviest of photographers and they have done a great job of it.

Summary

A superb addition to the DSLR market. The only problem is it now gives you one more camera to consider as it is a definite competitor. Providing quality photos, an overabundance of useful features and functions; it reaches out to the camera enthusiast looking for a nice, quality camera. The Sony DSLR A700 is a great pick.

Pros

• 12.2 megapixel CMOS sensor
• 3.0 inch LCD screen
• Super Steady Shot Image Stabilization
• Full resolution 5 fps continuous shutter
• HDMI output

Cons

• There are no cons for this product

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