Digital Trends

Sony Alpha DSLR-A100

June 20th, 2006 | by David Elrich

Performance

We have to stress this was a pre-production model so we won't make definitive judgments about things such as the D-Range Optimizer. However we will comment on the photos we took. In a word—terrific. We must admit we typically like the results of Sony cameras other than the entry-level DSC-S600. We also liked the KM Maxxum 5D when we tested that camera back in the day. The “combined” unit was a winner. The DSLR-A100 was responsive, starting up in less than a second and it captured shots quickly. Continuous shooting was very fast as was focusing. We did a lot of shooting in the RAW+JPEG setting and the camera handled those massive files with ease. Remember this is a 10MP camera and JPEGs are 3872 x 2592 pixels. Color was very accurate though we tended to up the compensation simply because we like more contrasty images, especially landscapes. Skin tones were spot on, even when making large prints (13 x 19s are no problem with a 10-megapixel camera).

Conclusion

Sony has gone “all in” in the D-SLR poker game, quickly leaping into the ranks of the better Canon and Nikon models. Keep it in mind if you're looking to spend $1,000 for a new camera. Remember this was a pre-production model and we'll have a final report and DT rating as soon as can.

Pros:

• 10MP CCD
• Built-in image stabilization
• Fast response

Cons:

• Not a production model
• Final marks on hold