Sony alpha DSLR-A200 Review

Features and Design
The Sony alpha DSLR-A200 looks like a younger brother to the 40D. It too has a black body with textured finish. Measuring 5.4 x 3.87 x 2.2, it tips the scales at 18.8 ounces without battery and lens, closer to 30 with them. The 40D weighs 37 ounces combined. The main reason for the difference is overall build quality�the A200 is made primarily of plastic compared to the 40D�s magnesium alloy frame. Yes, we know we really should be comparing this camera to the new 12.2-megapixel Canon XSi and 10MP Nikon D60 but they�re not available yet (April and March, respectively). And the 8MP Canon Digital Rebel XTi for $599 USD (body only) is really a graybeard although it�s a solid camera. Back to the A200�

Like all D-SLRs, the front is dominated by the lens mount. In this case, the camera accepts all Sony alpha glass as well as older Minolta a-type bayonet mount lenses. Sony doesn�t have the huge assortment as Canon or Nikon but as of 2008, there are around 30 including a new f/2.8 24-70mm for $1,750 USD. (This is the other reason camera companies want you to want the D-SLR switch�once you start a collection many people get obsessed like Amy Winehouse and her tats.) That said you really don�t have to go beyond the 3.8x 18-70mm supplied with the kit for everyday shooting.

The front also has a lens release button, AF/MF switch a flash open button and some subtle logos. The pistol grip is O.K., nothing like the heft of the 40D but it was comfortable. You know the drill�try any camera in the real world before you buy since everyone�s hands are different. Also on the grip are the shutter button, a jog dial to move through the menus and an AF illuminator/self timer sensor.

The top of the A200 is very plain�no handy LCD screen here�with buttons for ISO, burst mode and a main mode dial. This has all the settings first-time D-SLR owners would need including Auto, no flash, P for program, Aperture and Shutter Priority as well as full Manual. There are common scene modes as well including portrait, landscape, macro, sports, night portrait and sunset. This is not much different than what you�ll find on a quality point-and-shoot making it pretty seamless moving into the D-SLR arena. The top also has a hot shoe for optional flashes as well as a built-in flash that automatically pops open when the camera senses the light is too dim.


David Elrich


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