Sony translucent mirror SLR gets low-noise 24MP

Sony was claimed by multiple sources late last night to be developing a new, very high-end DSLR using the same translucent mirror technology behind the Alpha A33 and A55. It would come with a new 24-megapixel crop frame sensor that would still have as little noise as the 14- to 16-megapixel sensors on the existing cameras. The camera would have a Bionz processor related to the A33/A55 design, Sony Alpha Rumors said in its details, and would have micro-adjustment of AF points as well as capture video up to 1080p30.

The design would ship in mid-2011 despite the similarity. Sony is aiming for an "almost perfect" camera, the contacts said.

In the nearer term, the Alpha A77 (shown so far as a prototype model) is also thought to be using a unique approach to an electronic viewfinder. The design would have two translucent mirrors along with the electronic piece and would merge both into a single image: 70 percent would come from the EVF, but the optical image would contribute 30 percent. Sony's aims weren't made clear but may be to provide both the fidelity of the optical portion at the center while using the electronic portion to reach 100 percent coverage.

The finished product should have dual slots and enable shooting to CompactFlash, Memory Stick and SD cards, two of which could be used at once. Timing hasn't been settled, but an assigned name leaves the A77 likely shipping before the 24-megapixel range leader.

Alpha A77 prototype

By Electronista Staff