Sony to Release Alpha DSLR-A290 & DSLR-A390 for First-Time DSLR Buyers
Entry-Level Digital SLRs
Sony DSLR-A290
Sony DSLR-A390
San Diego, CA—Sony plans on offering first-time DSLR buyers “more style and value” for their money this summer when they release the DSLR-A390 and DSLR-A290 models with 14.2 megapixels and ease-of-use features.
The two entry-level DSLRs are engineered to provide a step up in image quality and creative options from point-and-shoot compacts, while offering features that make operation simple, even if the user has never handled a DSLR before. A new grip design and a revised, uncluttered button layout for comfortable handling are complemented by an on-screen help guide and graphic display for newbies.
With a resolution of 14.2 effective megapixels for low-noise images, both cameras offer a fast shooting response. The A390 adds a quick AF live-view function, which combines live image preview on its tilt-angle 2.7-inch LCD with “speedy, accurate phase-detection autofocus.”
The most affordable new DSLR from Sony, the A290 offers the same 14.2MP resolution as the A390 in a compact, lightweight body.
The pair’s intuitive graphic display is designed to make it easy to understand the relation between shutter speed and aperture, plus the effects of a chosen exposure setting on the final picture. The help guide offers explanations of camera functions, illustrated by a sample image to show the results that can be achieved. And access to shooting and playback function menus is streamlined by on-screen icons.
The A390 and A290 include a mini-HDMI terminal for direct connection to any HDTV (requires optional cable), while support for PhotoTV HD optimizes still image reproduction on compatible Bravia models. Additionally, Bravia Sync allows control of slideshows and other camera playback functions from the TV’s remote.
Sony’s DSLR-A390 and A290 digital SLRs, which support both Memory Stick and SD media, will be available summer 2010. The A390L camera will cost about $600 with the 18-55mm lens and the A290L camera will cost about $500 with the 18-55mm lens. sony.com