Sony's partnership with Minolta has yielded the Alpha DSLR-A100 system -- its first Digital SLR. The new camera features a 10.2 MP CCD image sensor. Sony is offering 19 lenses, plus the camera will be compatible with Minolta-mount lenses.
Sony has brought many of its own innovations to this camera, such as its Super SteadyShot image stabilization and dynamic range optimization, combined Minolta-type brilliance including Eye Start AF and honeycomb pattern metering. The A100 accepts CF cards and Sony's Memory Stick.
The A100 captures in both JPEG and RAW formats. Because of the APS-sized sensor, the camera does have a 1.5x image magnification. The Sony DSLR will list for $899, and is expected to ship before the end of July.
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I'm curious how many people will buy this - folks with older Minolta lenses maybe? With KonicaMinolta basically going under, I wouldn't think anyone not already in that camp would want to go there.
I used to be a big fan of Sony tech, but over the past few years they keep shooting themselves in the foot - and worse, they're usually aiming out OUR feet; but fortunately the shot goes awry. When it comes to a DSLR purchase, though, because of the lock-in factor I'd personally worry about another foot shot causing collateral damage (although given that I've already bought into the Nikon camp, I'm obviously not in the target group anyway).
I think your point is a good one. I'm curious myself. For those who have Minolta AF lenses, this might be a tempting offering. The price is good for 10 MPs ($900), it takes CF cards and microdrives, and there are some alluring innovations. Would like to try one to test focusing speed and overall performance.