Sony�s Alpha DSLR-A900 feels like it�s been with us for a long time � after all, the prototype was first shown back in March 2007 and its sensor unveiled in January 2008. So unlike its rivals which are often sprung with little notice, we�ve long-known what Sony�s flagship DSLR would look like and speculated how its new 24 Megapixel full-frame sensor may perform in practice.
Despite this advance information though, using the A900 in person is still quite a surprise in a number of respects. First, it�s larger and heavier than it looks, and once equipped with a quality lens like the Carl Zeiss 24-70mm f2.8, you certainly know you�re carrying it around. This is not a combination for anyone who wants to travel light, but it does feel well-balanced in your hands and like most heavier cameras, this heft instils a degree of confidence. It should also be said, the A900�s very distinct styling comes across better in the flesh than in photographs � it�s a unique but smart-looking camera.
The second surprise is the optical viewfinder, which is one of the largest, brightest and most enjoyable we�ve used in a long time; even in full-frame terms, it�s of a very high standard. Rather than feeling you�re looking down a tunnel at a framed view, you actually find yourself looking around the A900�s viewfinder image.
The third surprise is the speed of handling and operation. 24.6 Megapixels is a great deal of data to process, but the A900 rarely feels like its breaking a sweat. It�s very responsive and attacks continuous shooting, firing at only a fraction below 5fps in our tests � remember Nikon�s D700 may also offer 5fps, but is only handling 12.1 Megapixel images, while Canon�s EOS 5D Mark II shoots at a relatively modest 3.9fps.
Fourth is the resolution. It comes as no surprise to discover 24.6 Megapixels can potentially capture a lot of detail, but taken under the right conditions, the A900�s images still have the ability to impress with how far you can zoom-in before reaching a 100% view.
Gordon Laing
more : cameralabs
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