Sony Alpha DSLR Cameras

Mark Goldstein | Digital SLR Cameras | April 20, 2006 | 5 Comments |

Sony Alpha Sony Press Release

Sony Marks Entry Into Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera Market With New Symbolic “Alpha” Sub-Brand

SAN DIEGO, April 19—Sony has established a new brand name, Alpha, for its digital single lens reflex (D-SLR) cameras that will be launched worldwide this summer. Meaning “beginning” and “essential,” the symbol alpha embodies the spirit of Sony’s approach to the D-SLR market. Under this sub-brand, Sony will produce a complete camera system of accessories and lenses to enhance the enjoyment of photography. The Sony Alpha (TM) mount system of cameras, lenses and accessories will integrate advanced electromechanical technologies that are key to D-SLR performance, the versatility of the well-established Maxxum (R) lens mount system, and Sony’s renown in imaging devices and technologies. These include CCD and CMOS imaging sensors, as well as other image processing technologies, in addition to overall product miniaturization. People who have already made investments in many of Konica-Minolta’s lenses and accessories will be able to take full advantage of Sony’s new D-SLR cameras.

“We are expanding our product portfolio to build upon our leadership position in the digital imaging business,” said James Neal, director of marketing for digital imaging products at Sony Electronics. “Our approach to D-SLR camera design and engineering will allow us to offer a new high-performance system for today’s digital camera users, as well as welcome the millions of Konica-Minolta owners who have Maxxum interchangeable lenses that are currently in the market.”

Sony is already handling support and repair service for existing Konica-Minolta digital and film cameras, as well as related lenses and accessories in the U.S. A dedicated call center and strong levels of web support have been established for these customers.

There is more information available about the new sub-brand at http://www.sony.com/dslr. Sony camera and related product support for Konica Minolta customers is also being offered at http://www.support.sony.com/EN/KM/service.html.

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5 Comments so far | Post a comment

#1 Jason

I'm excited!

10:44 pm - Thursday, April 20, 2006

#2 snedger

me too, a bit.
Very formal from Mr. Nakagawa.
A bet of lot of people have been hassling Sony to say something!
Am really glad I didn't get a 5D or 7D now.

5:56 pm - Friday, April 21, 2006

#3 DaveyG

I'm looking to buy new D-SLR and looked at Dynax (I'm existing Minolta SLR user) as well as Canon, Olympus, Nikon. It's a little frustrating when we don't have more info from Sony as I think it could be something special..certainly hope so. I'll hang on a little longer I think.. Carl Zeiss lenses and Minolta fit would be lovely

12:22 pm - Tuesday, May 9, 2006

#4 Stewart Bywater

Looks like the wait has been worth your while! Amateur Photographer reckons it's seriously good and that Sony will be forcing Nikon and Canon to reassess their place in the market. I read another review in which it was awarded 96%. They will be bringing out models both above and below this one in the range. Can't wait to see what else they can produce. It's a shame that there's no battery grip though.

11:39 pm - Thursday, July 27, 2006

#5 nick in japan

Posted images, and review of noise should be required reading before deciding on this camera. I was excited too, hoping the image would favor the quality of the Dynax, especially in the higher ASA range, I didn't get that feeling, IMHO!

12:33 am - Friday, July 28, 2006