(Credit: Sony)
Sony has scaled back on its Cyber-shot lineup for 2013, but there was definitely still a hole that needed to be filled: an update to its top-of-the-line compact megazoom, the HX30V.
The WX300 announced in February, with its 20x zoom lens and somewhat stripped-down feature set, seemed an unlikely follow-up for the generally excellent HX30V. The Cyber-shot HX50V, however, looks like a serious update.
The HX50V features a 20-megapixel Exmor R backside-illuminated CMOS sensor at the back of a 30x, f3.5-6.3, 24-720mm lens. Now, that alone isn't that impressive, but the fact that it's in a body that measures 4.4 inches wide by 2.6 inches high by 1.2 inches deep and weighs approximately 9.6 ounces makes it the smallest and lightest camera with a 30x zoom.
Shooting modes seem to be the same assortment you'd find on past models using Sony's Exmor R sensors, including modes for improved low-light photos, HDR, creative filters, and full manual controls. However, the manual mode is joined by aperture priority and shutter speed priority modes.
(Credit: Sony)
On top next to the mode dial there's a new exposure compensation dial and a Multi Interface Shoe for attaching compatible accessories including an electronic viewfinder, flash, or microphone. There's also a Multi Terminal USB port that's compatible with a remote control. The camera has built-in Wi-Fi as well, so you can use your smartphone or tablet to wirelessly control the camera in addition to transferring your shots to your mobile device for viewing and sharing.
The camera has built-in GPS for geotagging your photos, too. Instead of just a plain pop-up flash, the HX50V's can be angled back to be used as a bounce flash. Looks like the placement is still where you typically hold the camera, though.
The camera still uses a small 1/2.3-inch-type sensor, so some might not consider this a true enthusiast compact. Also, the lens is pretty slow at both ends and it doesn't capture in raw, it's JPEG-only. Plus, it seems limited to the typical burst found on Cyber-shots: 10 frames per second with focus and exposure set with the first shot (and there's likely a lengthy wait while each of those 20-megapixel frames are stored before you can shoot again).
Still, it's certainly not targeting your average snapshooter, and the whole package looks like a pretty killer travel zoom. Sony must agree, too, because it's asking $450 for it when it comes to stores in May.
No comments:
Post a Comment