Sony Introduces New Full-frame 99!

Sony Introduces New Full-frame  99

A-mount flagship 35mm full-frame camera debuts Dual AF System and pro-style video 

• Flagship camera with Translucent Mirror Technology and newly developed 24.3 effective megapixel full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor

• World’s first full-frame camera  with Dual AF System with 19 sensors (including 11 cross sensors) + 102 AF point system (focal plane) and a new AF range control function to set the distance range recognised by the AF system

• Very wide sensitivity range ISO 50-25600 (at expanded sensitivity setting) with extremely low noise

• Advanced Full HD 50p progressive movie shooting with non-stop Continuous AF and pro-style audio features

• XGA OLED Tru-Finder with 100% frame coverage

• Enthusiast-class handling with tough, light magnesium alloy body, weather seals and revised Quick Navi Pro interface 

(PHILIPPINES, 20 February 2013) – Advanced photographers in the Philippines can now explore the creative possibilities of full-frame imaging and the responsiveness of Translucent Mirror Technology.

The eagerly awaited successor to the flagship  900 DSLR, the new  99 is the first Translucent Mirror camera from Sony to feature a full-frame 35mm image sensor. Ruggedly built to cope effortlessly with tough assignments, the  99 sets new standards of imaging performance, creative options, user-focused ergonomics and reliability to satisfying the needs of demanding photography enthusiasts.

Unsurpassed imaging performance and responses

Unique to the  99, a newly developed full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor with 24.3 effective megapixels is teamed with a highly advanced BIONZ image processing engine. This powerful sensor/processor combination guarantees unprecedented levels of imaging performance with still and video shooting. 

The full-frame sensor’s resolving power is enhanced by a newly developed separate multi-segment optical low-pass filter. Assisted by an all-new front-end LSI, the BIONZ engine processes massive amounts of image signal data from the Exmor CMOS Sensor at very high speeds. Together with a powerful new area-specific noise reduction (NR) algorithm, this achieves a 14-bit RAW output, rich gradation and low noise.

Various characteristics of the image sensor, in addition to its size, have been dramatically improved to significantly enhance high-sensitivity shooting quality, reduce noise and expand the dynamic range. The result of this is the best image quality in α history. 

The evolved BIONZ processor boosts maximum sensitivity range (in expanded sensitivity mode) as wide as ISO 50 – 25600 – a range of 9 stops. Its unprecedented processing power also enables the  99 to shoot a burst of full-resolution images at up to 6 frames per second or 10 fps in Tele-zoom high speed shooting mode.

For the first time ever, the 19-point AF system with 11 cross sensors is complemented by a multi-point focal plane phase-detection AF sensor. With no less than 102 AF points this additional AF sensor overlays the main image sensor. Harnessing the power of Translucent Mirror Technology, this unique Dual AF System permits ultra-fast, accurate autofocusing that maintains tracking focus even if the subject leaves the 19-point AF frame.

The  99 also debuts an advanced new AF-D continuous autofocus mode that’s supremely effective with moving subjects. The 19-point AF system provides reliable depth focusing information. It’s complemented by the 102-point multi-point focal plane phase-detection AF sensor that copes effortlessly with subjects traversing the focal plane.

From launch, new AF-D mode is supported by the SAL2470Z, SAL2875, SAL50F14, SAL300F28G2, SAL70400G and SAL500F4G lenses. More lenses will be supported via future firmware updates.

As a further focusing refinement, a new AF range control function allows users to set the distance range recognised by the AF system. This smart feature significantly aids operability if you’re focusing on distant sports action through a nearby wire mesh fence.

Crafted for videographers moviemakers

The  99 inherits the world-leading ‘cinematic DNA’ from professional movie cameras and high-end camcorders by Sony. The unmatched resolving power and sensitivity of the full-frame sensor is complemented by advanced features optimised for professional video production.

The  99 supports the needs of professional movie-makers, offering full-frame Full HD 50p/25p progressive video recording to meet AVCHD Version 2.0 specifications. As introduced on the  77, Full-time Continuous AF Movie allows smooth, non-stop tracking of moving subjects. Other movie-oriented enhancements include real-time Full HD video output via HDMI, and uninterrupted ‘dual-card’ recording using both of the camera’s media slots

For extra convenience during movie shooting, a silent new multi-controller is easily accessible via a dial on the front of the camera body. This allows smooth, silent adjustment of exposure compensation, ISO sensitivity and metering method, shutter speed, aperture and audio record levels during Full HD video capture. Shooting stamina is tripled by partnering the camera with the new VG-C99AM Vertical Grip that houses up to three batteries in total 

These technologies enable saturation signal volume by twice or more. With its expended receptor surface, its sensitivity 1.5 times more, and the random noise is cut by half compared to  900. 

Audio features have also been significantly enhanced to meet the exacting needs of serious videographers. An audio level display and adjustable audio record levels are joined by a headphone jack for accurate in-the-field monitoring. The optional XLR-K1M adaptor kit adds a high-quality mono shotgun mic and pro-standard XLR connections for dependable audio acquisition.

Uncompromised handing for serious photographers

The XGA OLED Tru-Finder gives a detail-packed view of your subject, offering 100% frame coverage with exceptional brightness, contrast, clarity and resolution.

You’ll enjoy a full 100% view on the Tru-Finder screen, even if you’re shooting with a DT lens (APS-C) that’s optimised for cameras with an APS-C sensor. Angle of view is converted automatically for image recording and display. This viewfinder is completely compatible with the APS-C format and displays scenes using the entire finder screen.

Complementing the Tru-Finder, there’s also a three-way tiltable 1229k-dot (VGA equivalent) XtraFine LCD with WhiteMagic™ technology to boost screen brightness in outdoor conditions.

Despite its uncompromising pro-class credentials, the  99 is the world’s lightest1 35 mm full-frame, interchangeable lens digital camera. A weight of just 733g (without lens and battery) is made possible by Translucent Mirror Technology, while high-rigidity magnesium alloy panels contribute to an extremely tough yet light design.

Weather-resistant seals protect against dust and moisture, while controls and buttons are ruggedized for years of unflinching operation on virtually any assignment. The camera’s stamina and reliability is underlined by a redesigned shutter block that’s tested to approximately 200,000 release cycles.

Ergonomics have been refined for a smooth, seamless workflow that doesn’t interrupt your creative focus. Enhancements include a re-designed grip, while switches and button shapes are differentiated for intuitive fingertip operation without taking an eye off your composition. There’s also a new exposure mode dial lock that prevents accidental rotation.

Further evolved from the acclaimed  700 and  900, the newly-developed Quick Navi Pro interface gives quick, intuitive one-handed access to shooting parameters.

The camera can also be operated via remote PC connection. Supported functions include switching between still/movie shooting, plus automatic transfer of still images from camera to PC for enhanced studio workflow.

Designed for professionals: new accessories 

Offered exclusively as an option for the  99, the brand new VG-C99AM vertical grip can house and manage three batteries in total (including the camera’s own on-board battery). Resistant to dust and moisture, the grip is ideal for lengthy shooting sessions in the studio or outdoors. 

The range-leading HVL-F60M is a powerful flash (GN60, in metres at ISO 100) with built-in LED light ideal for creative applications with stills or movie shooting. Smart functions include wireless multi-flash ratio control and Sony’s unique Quick Shift Bounce adjustment, while operation can be controlled quickly via the flash’s intuitive Quick Navi system. Resistant to dust and moisture, the HVL-F60M comes supplied with a bounce adaptor for flash, and a colour conversion filter for use with LED lighting. Ideal for the  99 and other cameras featuring the new Multi Interface Shoe, the HVL-F60M can also be used with Auto-lock Accessory Shoe cameras via the supplied ADP-AMA Shoe Adaptor.

Compatible with 49mm and 55mm diameter lenses, the HVL-RL1 Ring Light offers highly effective LED illumination of small subjects that’s ideal for macro shooting. Its high output level (approx. 700 lx/0.3m) is approximately four times brighter than the previous model. Brightness can be adjusted step-lessly for precise control of creative lighting effects. Operation can also be switched between full-ring illumination for shadow-less lighting and half-ring illumination to create shadow effects. The optional FA-MA1AM Macro Light Adaptor is required when using the Ring Light with SAL30M28 or SAL50F18 lenses. Compatible with the Multi Interface Shoe of the 99, the HVL-RL1 can also be used with cameras that have an Auto-lock Accessory Shoe via the supplied ADP-AMA Shoe Adaptor.

The new XLR-K1M XLR Adaptor Kit meets the demanding audio needs of professional movie production. It provides two pro-standard XLR terminals for connecting the 99 with professional microphones and mixing consoles. Operating flexibility is maximised by MIC/LINE input selection and separate adjustment of two channel levels. The adaptor kit comes supplied with the ECM-XM1 monaural shotgun microphone, but may also be used with a wide range of professional microphones. An optional bracket is required when using the XLR-K1M with the 99.

The RMT-DSLR2 Remote Commander allows wireless shutter release for still images and start/stop control of video shooting. As well as the 99, it’s also compatible with other  A-mount and E-mount cameras that include a remote control receiver.

Styled to reduce carrying fatigue, the LCS-BP3 Backpack is designed to meet the stringent demands of professional photographers. Its generous capacity can hold the 99 camera body plus Vertical Grip and attached telephoto zoom lens, together with 3-4 spare lenses, accessories and a 15.5” laptop.

The ADP-MAA is a new shoe adaptor that allows Multi Interface Shoe^[1] cameras to be used with Auto-lock Accessory Shoe accessories. Conversely, the ADP-AMA she adaptor allows Auto-lock Accessory Shoe cameras to be used with Multi Interface Shoe accessories.

The PCK-LM14 Screen Protector Semi Hard Sheet safeguards the camera’s LCD screen against dust and scratches. It’s supplied with a separate protector sheet for the top display panel.

(SLT-A99 SRP: 139,999 with free exclusive Sony camera bag and extra battery)

Specifications Sheet

	99
Camera type	Interchangeable-lens digital camera
Lens compability	Sony A-mount lenses, operation with Minolta/Konica Minolta lenses confirmed
Type	35mm full frame (35.8 x 23.9mm), "Exmor" CMOS sensor
Number of pixels (effective)	Approx. 24.3 megapixels
Number of pixels (total)	Approx. 24.7 megapixels
Image sensor aspect ratio	3:02
Color filter	R, G, B primary color
Anti-Dust system	Charge protection coating on low-pass filter and image sensor shift mechanism
Anti-Dust operation (auto)	At power off
Recording format	JPEG (DCF Ver. 2.0, Exif Ver. 2.3, MPF baseline compliant), RAW (Sony ARW 2.3 format), RAW & JPEG
Image size (pixels) [3:2]	35mm full frame L: 6000 x 4000 (24M), M: 3936 x 2624 (10M), S: 2640 x 1760 (4.6M)
	APS-C L: 3936 x 2624 (10M), M: 2640 x 1760 (4.6M), S: 1728 x 1152 (2.0M)
Image size (pixels) [16:9]	35mm full frame L: 6000 x 3376 (20M), M: 3936 x 2216 (8.7M), S: 2640 x 1488 (3.9M)
	APS-C L: 3936 x 2216 (8.7M), M: 2640 x 1488 (3.9M), S: 1728 x 976 (1.7M)
Image size (pixels) [Sweep Panorama]	Wide: horizontal 12,416 x 1,856 (23M), vertical 5,536 x 2,160 (12M), Standard: horizontal 8,192 x 1,856 (15M), vertical 3,872 x 2,160 (8.4M)