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Sony Alpha 7 II mirrorless camera to hit US in a few days

• Galea Razvan
• December 2nd, 2014

Sony’s Alpha 7 II mirrorless camera is set to hit the US market this December 9th, just two weeks after it was first announced by the Japanese giant. The Alpha 7 II will come with brand new refined features compared to the previous model, utilizing an integrated stabilization system, a more responsive autofocus function and native support for high-bitrate XAVC S video format. On top of this, the new Alpha 7 features an improved design to help minimize camera shake regardless of the lens being detached of strapped onto the camera frame. What really makes this camera stand out is its stabilization system. While many mirrorless cameras on the market have been sporting integrated stabilization systems for quite some time now, this is the first time such a system has been jointed with a full-frame sensor in a mirrorless body.

The Alpha 7 II sees through an an FE 28-70mm, f/3.5-f/5.6 OSS zoom lens, while its full-frame CMOS image sensor outputs 24,3 megapixels. Alpha’s high-end imaging unit also features onboard phase detection and 5-axis image stabilization. This state of the art device is quite versatile, as it supports lenses from other manufacturers than Sony, as well as the Sony A-mount lenses, which can be fitted via an adapter. The best part is that the A7’s integrated stabilization system will continue to work even when using native third party lenses or rangefinder lens through a mechanical adapter. Thanks to the XAVC S video codec, the Alpha 7 II will shoot at a 50Mbps bitrate and 1080p resolution, and will employ some unique pro options such as S-Log2 gamma, time code, a flat picture profile, and markers. The body of the new Alpha 7 is deeper in order to allow optimum housing space for the integrated stabilization system, and the camera’s chassis utilizes a front plate made out of magnesium alloy.

Alpha 7 II has a stronger lens mount than its predecessor, perhaps as reliable as the one seen on the Alpha 7S. The handgrip has also been improved thanks to a repositioned shutter release. In terms of pricing, the Alpha 7 II costs the same as the Alpha 7: $1,699 as a body only and $1,999 with a 28-70mm lens. Sony’s powerful Alpha 7 II is definitely one of the best high-end digital cameras on the market right now, and it would make a great Christmas present.