24.3 Megapixels, Far Surpassing Current Models

In the burgeoning market for compact mirrorless cameras, this autumn will see the release of further miniaturized models like the "Q" from PENTAX and the "PEN mini" from Olympus PEN. Amidst this trend, Sony is introducing new products for its NEX series that lean towards a more professional orientation.

The "NEX-7," scheduled for release on November 11, features a built-in viewfinder, which was previously an external accessory, and boasts high image quality with 24.3 megapixels. Autofocus, a long-standing challenge for mirrorless cameras, has been significantly improved, achieving a release time lag of just 0.02 seconds. With three dials—two on the top and one on the back—operation for exposure, white balance, and ISO has been enhanced. The flash, also previously external, is now integrated as a pop-up unit.

The "NEX-5N" largely retains the design of the current "NEX-5." Key upgrades include an increase in megapixels from 14.2 to 16.1 million and the adoption of a touch-panel LCD monitor. It also supports a newly released high-definition, high-contrast XGA OLED external viewfinder. This significantly expands its usability compared to the current viewfinder, which was only compatible with the short-focus E16mm lens.

Three E-mount Lenses, Long-Awaited by NEX Enthusiasts, Also Debut!

Furthermore, three new E-mount lenses (lenses exclusively for NEX) will be released, much to the delight of NEX series users. Until now, there were only four E-mount lenses available: a prime lens, two zoom lenses, and a macro lens. While a wide variety of A-mount lenses could be used via an optional mount adapter, issues such as slow autofocus and lack of image stabilization persisted.

The three new lenses are the "E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 OSS," the "Sonnar T* E 24mm F1.8 ZA," and the "E 50mm F1.8 OSS." The E55-210mm covers up to 210mm and is reasonably priced at ¥44,100. The E24mm is the first Carl Zeiss lens for the E-mount, boasting sharp, high-resolution images across the frame thanks to its new optical design. The E50mm, the third prime lens for the E-mount, features an optical image stabilization system, a first for a large-aperture F1.8 lens. It excels in handheld shooting in low-light conditions.

Three more E-mount lenses are scheduled to be added by 2012.




Sony α E-mount Series
http://www.sony.jp/ichigan/index-e.html