Today it's Sony's turn to announce their 2005 digital cameras. The most interesting
camera of the bunch (in my opinion) is the DSC-H1, an ultra zoom camera aimed
squarly at the Panasonic FZ20 (again, my opinion). Here's the specs on this one:
Cyber-shot DSC-H1 [specs]
- 5.1 effective Megapixel CCD
- F2.8-3.7, 12X optical zoom Sony lens, equivalent to 36 - 432 mm (very interesting
to note that this is not a Zeiss lens)
- Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization system
- 2.5" LCD display + electronic viewfinder
- AF-assist lamp
- 32MB onboard memory + Memory Stick Pro slot
- Some manual controls: shutter speed, aperture, limited manual focus
- Records 640 x 480 video at 30 frames/second, with sound, until memory is
full
- Supports USB 2.0 High Speed
- Optional external slave flash and conversion lenses
- Uses AA batteries; NiMH rechargeables included
- PictBridge-enabled
- Ships in June for $500
EAGERLY ANTICIPATED: SONY DEBUTS HIGH-ZOOM CYBER-SHOT DIGITAL CAMERA
ORLANDO (PMA 2005, Booth 3032), Feb. 19, 2005 — The adage that good
things come to those who wait has never been more appropriate than with today's
introduction of Sony's DSC-H1 Cyber-shot® digital camera.
A five megapixel, Super HAD™ CCD imager, 12X optical zoom lens and
a large 2.5-inch LCD are just a few of the features on this model that are
sure to please even the choosiest photo buff.
"We've responded to requests from enthusiasts for this type of camera," said
Hiro Takahashi, vice president for Sony Electronics' digital imaging products.
With the DSC-H1 model, we have fully leveraged Sony's digital imaging expertise
to offer a high-zoom camera worthy of the Cyber-shot brand."
With a focal length range of 36 - 432 millimeters (a 35mm equivalence) the
DSC-H1 camera lets you frame distant objects with ease. Making the most of
this telephoto reach, Sony's Super Steady Shot® optical image stabilization
feature counteracts camera-shake to ensure sharp images. This feature also
benefits low-light photography by allowing the use of longer shutter speeds
with reduced risk of image blur from camera-shake.
Sony's Real Imaging Processor™ circuitry is incorporated in the model
for better battery efficiency, more responsiveness and high quality movie taking,
while seven preset scene modes allow quick selection of the best setting for
specific shooting conditions.
The camera also includes a five-area, multi-point auto focus to help you
concentrate on the subject without mistakenly focusing on the background, as
well as aperture/shutter priority and manual exposure modes for creative control
of the image.
For added convenience, the model has 32 MB of internal memory (30 MB of usable
memory) and a Memory Stick® flash media slot. PictBridge™ compatibility
enables prints in a flash when the camera is connected to an enabled printer.
"We've been able to put all these powerful capabilities in a camera
that is far more compact than most would expect," noted Takahashi. "The
combination of form and function in this model will broaden the market bringing
advanced features to wider audience."
The DSC-H1 Cyber-shot camera will be available this June for about $500
Optional Lenses
For truly professional shots, this new camera is also compatible with optional
telephoto or wide conversion lenses. The VCL-DH0758 model .7x wide angle conversion
lens provides a wider field of view with virtually no color aberration or distortion.
The VCL-DH1758 model 1.7x telephoto conversion lens offers greater magnification
and a crystal-clear shot. Both lenses will be available by mid-June for about
$150 each.
