8/27/13
New Sony Cameras and lenses.
Sony launches a new budget camera, and a couple of new lenses for e-mount. The new A3000 camera has a 20mp sensor, takes e-mount lenses with a price point of $399 with the 18-55mm kit lens. It has a low resolution EVF and fixed LCD, but how much can you expect for that price? The A3000 would make an economical back-up camera for Sony e-mount users, or A mount with an adapter. Also, the current silver 50/1.8 OSS (optical steady shot) lens will now be available in what Sony calls “striking black” a result of user demand. Available in Sept for $299. The NEX-5T is a slight upgrade to the current model, and will be available in early September for $699 with 16-50mm kit lens, or $549 body only.
The Sony Zeiss 16-70mm F/4 OSS (equiv 135 film format coverage of 24-105mm) will be available in Sept for $999. It features OSS, an advanced aspherical element, and three regular aspherical elements. Extends out when zooming.
Sony 18-105mm F/4 G OSS. The first “G” lens for the E-mount system, (equiv 135 film format coverage of 27-157mm). A constant aperture lens that does not extend when zooming, along with a quiet focus motor and power zoom and optical steady shot. Has two ‘ED’ elements, and three aspherical elements. Available in December for $599—seems like a good price. It looks a lot like the old Minolta 28-135mm lens—and read my 2008 prediction in the conclusion!