Sony has flooded the entry-level dSLR market this year (2008) with three offerings in this category, the A200, A300, and A350. These models share very similar specifications, with resolution, Live View, and the LCDs being the main differences between them. The 14.2-megapixel Alpha 350 or DSLR-A350 is what I consider the "top model" from Sony in this field. Like the A200 we reviewed earlier in the year, the A350 offers an APS-C sized imaging sensor with Anti-dust system, Alpha/Minolta A-type bayonet lens mount, Super SteadyShot image stabilization system, D-Range Optimizer, 9-point AF system with Eye-start option, 40-segment metering, etc. Sony has improved this model with more resolution, Live View function and a large variable angle 2.7-inch ClearPhoto LCD screen. However, the burst or continuous capture rate has dropped to 2.5fps compared to the 3fps of its sibling.
Like all of the Alpha models, I was pleased with the ergonomics of this camera. The A350's body design is almost identical to the A200. The differences include the variable angle LCD, Live View/OVF (Optical ViewFinder) switch on the top, and the "Smart Teleconverter" button on the back. I found this button to be pretty much useless. It can only be used in Live View mode, and by lowering the image size, it acts like a digital teleconverter (1.4 or 2x). This function reminds me of the digital zoom feature you find on many consumer digicams. We feel that this button could have served a much better purpose, and hope that in the future Sony will release an update that will allow you to choose the setting that is controlled by this button.
The A350 is about 50 grams heavier that its "little" brother, but is still what I consider a lightweight camera. The handgrip offered a nice comfortable feel in my large hands, and the camera controls are positioned well. Again we found the Fn (Function) button to be very handy, allowing us to make quick changes to several functions like AF mode/area, Flash mode, metering, etc. The large 2.7-inch ClearPhoto Plus LCD is a high-quality display that is not only used for navigating the Menu system, reviewing images or as the shooting information display, but can also be used to frame your pictures thanks to the Live View function. This is becoming an almost standard option on consumer based dSLRs, however, unlike many manufactures, Sony has the cleverest system yet; in my opinion. Instead of having the mirror move twice to capture a single image, the system on the A350 features a separate image sensor used just for the live image that is displayed on the LCD.
more : steves-digicams
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