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Sony’s new low-priced a6100 is a stripped-down a6400

29 Aug

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Sony has introduced its new low-priced a6100 APS-C E-Mount camera, which will slot in-between the a6000 (yes, it’s still being produced) and the a6400. The a6100 is essentially the a6400 with a lower resolution EVF (1.44M rather than 2.36M dots), smaller ISO range (ISO 51200 vs 102400) and no Picture Profiles.

What it does feature is Sony’s familiar 24MP APS-C sensor, a 425-pt PDAF system with Real-time Tracking, 11 fps burst shooting, 3″ flip-up touchscreen LCD and oversampled 4K video capture (which is cropped at 30p). It also features a mic input, making the a6100 a good option for vlogging.

The a6100 will be priced at $ 750 body-only, $ 850 with a 16-50mm power zoom lens, and $ 1100 with the 16-50 plus a 55-210mm lens. It will be available in October.

Sony Electronics Strengthens APS-C Mirrorless Line-up with Launch of Two New Cameras

Company Introduces Alpha 6600 with in-body Image Stabilization and Enhanced Battery Life, Also Boosts Product Portfolio with Introduction of Alpha 6100

SAN DIEGO — August 28, 2019 — Sony Electronics today announced two new additions to its ? (Alpha) series of mirrorless cameras with the launch of the Alpha 6600 (model ILCE-6600) and Alpha 6100 (model ILCE-6100). These new models bring many of Sony’s most advanced imaging technologies into compact, lightweight APS-C bodies.

The new, extremely versatile Alpha 6600 camera has been designed to address the needs of the most demanding photographers and videographers, while the new Alpha 6100 is targeted at users who are looking to produce high-quality photos and videos with an interchangeable lens camera.

In addition to the new bodies, the Sony APS-C range has been further strengthened by the launch of two new lenses: E 16-55mm F2.8 G and E 70-350mm F4.5-6.3 G OSS. Sony’s “One Mount” solution for both APS-C and Full-frame cameras provides creators an extreme amount of versatility for all of their photography and video needs.

“These new APS-C cameras provide excellent image quality in a compact package, with the ability to take full advantage of Sony’s growing lineup of 54 different E-mount lenses,” said Neal Manowitz, deputy president of Imaging Products and Solutions at Sony Electronics. “We are proud to bring so many of our innovations into our APS-C lineup and to provide creators with several new tools to realize their vision.”

The new Alpha 6600 and Alpha 6100 include a 24.2MP[i] Exmor™ CMOS image sensor, the latest BIONZ X™ image processor, and a front-end LSI implemented in Sony’s full-frame cameras. This powerful trio combine to deliver all-around enhancements in image quality and performance across all areas of photo and video capture.

The Alpha 6600 and Alpha 6100 offer a lightning-fast autofocus acquisition time of 0.02 seconds[ii]. With 425 focal-plane phase-detection autofocus (AF) points covering approximately 84 percent of the image area and 425 contrast-detection AF points, the high density and wide coverage of the AF system ensure reliable AF, even in the most challenging light conditions. Both new models benefit from Sony’s ‘Real-time Tracking’ which utilizes Sony’s latest algorithm with Artificial Intelligence[iii]-based object recognition to ensure that subjects can be captured with excellent accuracy, even via the touch panel on the rear screen. In addition, the new models offer ‘Real-time Eye AF’, the latest version of Sony’s acclaimed Eye AF technology. Real-time Eye AF employs AI-based object recognition to detect and process eye data in real time, resulting in improved accuracy, speed and tracking performance of Eye AF for both humans and animals[iv], and it allows the photographer to concentrate exclusively on composition.[v] The Alpha 6600 also offers Real Time Eye AF in video. When activated, the eye of a subject is automatically tracked with high precision and reliability, allowing the shooter to focus on the content itself as opposed to what is in focus or not.

Additionally, both cameras can shoot high-quality 4K video, and include a microphone jack and flip screen that allows for easy framing and shooting of vlog-style content. The Alpha 6600 also features a headphone jack to monitor audio.

An Eye for Detail

Based upon feedback from users of existing Sony APS-C camera users, Sony has added features to the Alpha 6600 and Alpha 6100 to fine tune the user experience. These include:

  • Improved color reproduction; algorithms inherited from full-frame models deliver natural color reproduction, particularly in skin tones
  • Hi-resolution internal 4K[vi] movie recording with full-pixel readout without pixel binning in Super 35mm format with easy smartphone transfers via the Imaging Edge™ Mobile application[vii]
  • Interval shooting[viii] for stunning time-lapse videos
  • 180-degree tiltable, 3.0-type 921k-dot (approx.) LCD touch screen
  • Integrated Microphone input for clear and crisp audio on video recordings

Alpha 6600

Across an ISO range of 100-32000 (expandable to ISO 50 – 102400[ix]), the new Alpha 6600 offers superb low-noise performance and delivers extremely high-quality images, even in low-light conditions. By applying noise reduction and sharpness processing optimally in each area, Area-specific Noise Reduction and Detail Reproduction Technology greatly reduce noise while preserving high resolution. This contributes to fine reproduction of subject textures and shadow details.

The Alpha 6600 features many of the technology breakthroughs that are attracting praise on Sony’s high-end full-frame cameras. These include:

  • Sony’s innovative 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that results in a 5.0-step[x] shutter speed advantage
  • Implementation of the industry-leading[xi] long battery life with Sony Z Battery for the first time on an APS-C camera, enabling extended power performance; approx. 720 still images using viewfinder, approx. 810 images using LCD monitor[xii]
  • A tough magnesium alloy design that is dust and moisture resistant[xiii]
  • Real-time Eye AF for movie shooting[xiv]; when activated, the eye of a subject is automatically tracked with high precision and reliability, allowing the shooter to focus on the content itself as opposed to what is in focus or not in focus. Touch Tracking functionality will also automatically initiate Eye AF when a human subject is selected
  • Integrated headphone jack which allows the user to connect high-quality headphones for accurate monitoring of recorded sound

4K Recordingvi

The Alpha 6600 and Alpha 6100 boasts internal 4K movie recording in Super 35mm format with full pixel readout without pixel binning, to enable them to capture approximately 2.4x[xv] the amount of information required for 4K movies. This oversampling results in stunning footage, delivered in the XAVC S™ format with unparalleled resolution. The Alpha 6600 also equips an HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma)[xvi] picture profile that supports an instant HDR workflow. Recorded movies played back on an HDR (HLG) compatible TV will appear true-to-life, with no blocked shadows or blown highlights, and without the need for color grading. For users who want to color grade their footage in post-production, S-Log3 and S-Log2 Gamma profiles are provided.

Pricing and Availability

The new Alpha 6600 will be available in November and will be sold at a variety of Sony authorized dealers throughout North America at below prices:

  • Camera body – $ 1,400 US / $ 1,900 CA
  • Camera kit with Sony 18-135mm Lens – $ 1,800 US / $ 2,400 CA

In addition, the Alpha 6100 will be available in October and will be sold at a variety of Sony authorized dealers throughout North America at below prices:

  • Camera body – $ 750 US / $ 1,000 CA
  • Camera kit with Sony 16-50mm Lens – $ 850 US / $ 1,100 CA
  • Camera kit with Sony 16-50mm Lens and 55-210mm Lens – $ 1,100 US / $ 1,550 CA

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new lens and Sony’s other imaging products can be found at alphauniverse.com, a site created to educate and inspire all fans and customers of Sony’s ? – Alpha brand.

The new content will also be posted directly at the Sony Photo Gallery and the Sony Camera Channel on YouTube. For detailed product information, please visit:

  • (US) – Alpha 6600
  • (CA) – Alpha 6600
  • (US) – Alpha 6100
  • (CA) – Alpha 6100

A product video on the new Alpha 6600 and Alpha 6100 can be viewed HERE.

[i] Approximate effective megapixels

[ii] Based on Sony research, CIPA-guideline-compliant internal measurement with an E 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS lens mounted, Pre-AF off and viewfinder in use

[iii] AI (artificial intelligence) including machine learning technology is used

[iv] Real-time Eye AF for Animals supports still images only and cannot be used in combination with tracking. Does not work with some types of animal. Focusing may not perform well depending on scene and subject conditions

[v] Both right eye and left eye are selectable, either via the menu or by the touchscreen panel

[vi] 3840×2160 pixels. A Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC memory card is required to record movies in the XAVC S format. UHS-I (U3) SDHC/SDXC card is required for 100Mbps

[vii] Imaging Edge Mobile Ver. 7.2 or later is required

[viii] Wi-Fi does not work during interval shooting

[ix] Only on still images

[x] Based on CIPA standard. Pitch/yaw shake only. With Sonnar T* FE 55mm F1.8 ZA lens mounted. Long-exposure Noise Reduction off

[xi] Among mirrorless interchangeable-lens digital cameras equipped with an APS-C image sensor. As of August 2019, based on Sony research

[xii] CIPA standard compliant

[xiii] Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof

[xiv] This function does not track animal eyes

[xv] 24p recording. Approx. 1.6x at 30p

[xvi] Connect this product to an HDR (HLG) compatible Sony TV via a USB cable when displaying HDR (HLG) movies

Sony a6100 specifications

Price
MSRP $ 750 (body only), $ 850 (w/16-50 lens), $ 1100 (w/16-50 and 55-210 lenses)
Body type
Body type Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Body material Composite
Sensor
Max resolution 6000 x 4000
Image ratio w:h 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels 24 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 25 megapixels
Sensor size APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor Bionz X
Color space sRGB, Adobe RGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100-32000 (expands to 51200)
Boosted ISO (maximum) 51200
White balance presets 10
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization No
Uncompressed format RAW
JPEG quality levels Extra fine, fine, standard
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.31)
  • Raw (Sony ARW)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Manual focus Yes
Number of focus points 425
Lens mount Sony E
Focal length multiplier 1.5×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Tilting
Screen size 3
Screen dots 921,600
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic
Viewfinder coverage 100%
Viewfinder magnification 1.07× (0.71× 35mm equiv.)
Viewfinder resolution 1,440,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program
  • Aperture priority
  • Shutter priority
  • Manual
Scene modes
  • Portrait
  • Sports Action
  • Macro
  • Landscape
  • Sunset
  • Night Scene
  • Hand-held Twilight
  • Night Portrait
  • Anti Motion Blur
Built-in flash Yes
Flash range 6.00 m (at ISO 100)
External flash Yes
Flash modes Flash off, auto, fill flash, slow sync, rear sync, wireless, hi-speed
Flash X sync speed 1/160 sec
Drive modes
  • Single shooting
  • Continuous
  • Self-timer
  • Bracketing (AE, DRO, WB)
Continuous drive 11.0 fps
Self-timer Yes
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
AE Bracketing ±5 (3, 5 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps)
WB Bracketing Yes
Videography features
Format MPEG-4, XAVC S, H.264
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC + Memory Stick Pro Duo
Connectivity
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
USB charging Yes
HDMI Yes (micro HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n + NFC + Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (wireless or smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed No
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description NP-FW50 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 420
Weight (inc. batteries) 396 g (0.87 lb / 13.97 oz)
Dimensions 120 x 67 x 59 mm (4.72 x 2.64 x 2.32)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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