I want to make it 100% clear again that the A-mount strategy image posted by a commenter on SAR is 100% FAKE. And when I say 100% I mean I have proof and know for certain without any single doubt that it’s fake. I tracked back the author of the comment and he has a long history of publishing false information for fun on SAR comment system. So there is no doubt he made it up to create some buzz.
While I quickly removed the image from the comment system other sites like Petapixel, Photorumors, Cameraegg and so on picked up that image from the comment system without to question the validity of the “leak” taken from an anonymous(!) comment. I want to stress again that I did NOT(!) post the image as a valid “rumor” inside my own article. I contacted those sites and asked them to remove or mark the image as fake.
The issue still is that the image spread all over the web. And as I learned from my class in mass communication once an information has been spread out and magnified it becomes truth for many even if you try to dismantle it.
I ask all SAR readers who see the image posted on other sites and forums to make it clear this is a fake. If you want link back to this post if someone is interest to read the story of that fake image.
To all A-mount owners:
Sony will launch new A-mount lenses and cameras in future. I am 100% sure of that 🙂
165 Responses
Thanks for clarifying! I look forward to replacing my A99!
I too look forward to replacing my a99. When you say you’re 100% certain new a-mount bodies are coming, could you please elaborate on why? Do you have evidence, or is it speculation?
Why do you want to replace your A99?
My 2 A99 cameras have been used very hard for the past 3 or so years! haha I think its time to upgrade. If not, I actually wouldn’t mind buying another A99 if they are cheap… but would rather an update!
Well, they aren’t 3 years old yet, but I’m sure that Sony will give a successor this fall, which is the usual announcement time for Sony’s flagship camera. So you have to hold out a bit longer!
Nearly 3-years old technology, has far slipped behind the competition, is in need of many updates, particularly to the focus system, video, resolution, dynamic range and EVF.
100 % sure about A-mount release!!
That’s what many are glad to hear. Thanks!
Actually various great Sony news ahead then…!
Great
Hope A99 is the last FF A-mount camera. 😉
Move to E-mount…
The force is strong in this troll…
Hey Admin, what do you make of the ‘T1’ camera referenced in the leaked docs? It ‘might’ just be the FS7, but I actually suspect not. Was starting to be tested around Oct/Nov but sounds like it is somewhat cine related, but more consumer oriented. Could it have anything to do with that A-Mount style mockup they were showing a while back?
Well, I have bought 9 brand new, professional quality A-mount lenses in past 2 years. They are all SIGMA and TAMRON. It’s enough for next 10 years, as I belive that my both Alpha 900 cameras can survive such a long time in excellent condition, like Minolta Dynax cameras from XXth century that I still use sometimes. For guys like me Sony can even completely close the business, because their E-mount line is funny in terms of pricing and quality compared with Sigma and Tamron A-mount stuff. Additionally, in terms of image quality A7 isn’t even better than A900, I checked it carefully, so there’s no reason to buy it if you don’t need movies.
Which is why I sold my A7 and will probably just pick up another A900 or A99. I’ll keep buying glass but it’ll be all Sigma. I figure they have that mount switch over service. If A mount goes down I can salvage the glass without having to sell it all off. I still say, the better bodies are still with A mount and without state of the art focusing, FE is useless for many of us.
actually a good move going Sigma, the ART series is in many cases top notch… and mount exchange program is just so kind..
Depends on how you define image quality. I had both A850 and A7 and there is no doubt about it that the A7 sensor is better.
And yes, there are more reasons to buy an A7 than video.
But I like your determined view on the A-mount system. The A900s are indeed beasts regarding durability and they perform admirably in all aspects except live view and video.
It is true that the A7
sensor scores higher any given benchmark and is, by extension, “better” but is
does not make the A850/900 any less excellent. To each his upgrade path but I need
to be unhappy with something to move on and it’s not the case for the A850
sensor. For me FF means: (i) access to better optics, (ii) shallow depth of
field and, (ii) low noise / high ISO. Sony is not the best in that triangle but
FE system is too far out and focusing performance is too slow to be enjoyable
for me. However, the lightweight system felt like a small miracle and I found myself
wanting an A55 format FF A-mount. What I do hope is that Sony would ensure a
two tier level FF A-mount is they release any.
Did Sony do anything to actually deny? No! I don’t mean that Sony will comment on rumors site, but their actions speak for them. No lenses, no bodies……nothing related to A mount. I have invested a lot into A mount in the past, but slowly starting selling my equipment. I’ll keep basic stuff, stop investing in new lenses and explore other offers.
Sony could at least upgrade old screw lenses to prove us that they mean business……not even upgrade. They want to continue with E mount, well….go ahead. Some A mount shooters will switch, some (like me) won’t. I’d rather move to another camp.
Sony doesn’t have unlimited resources to develop lenses for 2 mounts, that’s why it’s one mount at a time.
E mount desperately needs (native) lenses and they are being delivered. That’s not the case of A mount, there are plenty to play with, even if some need an upgrade.
Yes, but what other company supports two different mounts for the same sensor size? What eventually happens is that the obsolete one will get discontinued in favor for the newer one. From what we are seeing, that process has already begun.
There is no reason the A & E mounts can’t peacefully coexist. The SLT’s share much of the technology, features and functionality of the mirrorless cameras in a bigger more robust form. I currently use both and would like to continue doing so for the foreseeable future, and have an upgrade path for the A99 when the time comes in two or three years. I’m not in a big hurry for the A99II but will consider upgrading to the generation after that.
For that is why Sony are not hurry in launching any new model soon as they want a really distinctive model from it predecessor. Don’t worry guys. A mount user won’t make any bad investment
Sony needs to PROVE A mount is alive, and they cant because A mount is dead
In your situation that would be a moot point would it not? You have already claimed that you have moved to another brand some time ago.
I still own and use A mount too…but cannot upgrade because there is nothing to upgrade to.
What do you have A-Mount?
Are you crazy? After posting insults to me all day do you actually expect me to answer a question from YOU ?
Because you don’t have any because you are a troll.
His statement has nothing to do with the fact if he is a A-mount user or not. We all don’t know Sony’s plans. But in case they are planning to abandon A-mount, his statement makes sense. 😉
+1
For a rumors site a lot of people take things for granted! Lol
Haha, that is true!
I heard a mount is going to be discontinued.
Correction; has been discontinued. And the world is going to end on December 16, 2015.
Look at B&H sales charts for DSLR cameras. Where is A-mount ranked? #66 for the a77II, #67 for the a58, #114 for a99. Even Pentax is selling better than Sony A at the moment. It might be different in Europe (I don’t know), but in the U.S. A-mount is on life support. All of the chain electronics stores I’ve been to only sell E-mount now.
Admin, why did you change the title?
It was correct before, now it is wrong!
LOL
I made a fool out of you.
You are insecure…
Fake huh? Well that’s good to here. Now I can go on living. I guess all that binge drinking last night wasn’t necessary.
hahah … ill delete my gumtree ads 😉
LOL
Hey Admin . . . your statement “Sony will launch new A-mount lenses and cameras in future. I am 100% sure of that.” That sounds like “SR5” to me(?)
I’m surprised at the lengths some people will go to fake news. You have to wonder why they would do it.
Although as well, I don’t agree with what Wikileaks has done as it helps an illegal act.
Can you imagine the face of this loser that spend energy and time on making and spreading these false rumours? Can you imagine the life of such a person?
He is beside himself at his trolling has proven successful. His life just peaked.
why all the fuzz about false information? i thought this site has always been an ode to vagueness.
Andera, Sony is not happy with you now. Haha
This site is spending an inordinate amount of energy trying to dispel this rumor. It’s having the opposite affect and now I’m suspicious. Just let it go… The writing is on the wall to the more savvy of us anyway…
Of course you all realize A mount WILL be discontinued one day… And it’s going to be way earlier than everybody expects.
How do you all know that sony didn’t put the rumor…just to see how everybody reacts. The idea is to make all A mount users go to the new E mount… and with fake rumors… I think it’s working.
Admitting officially to discontinue the A mount might get some users to go to other companies but with these rumors they will get the subconscious idea to stay with sony but move to E mount near future.
That’s what I would do… marketing isn’t all spam emails and flyers… sometimes you have to play dirty.
I’m sorry, but no one has shown us any proof that it is not true, so I will believe the A-mount is dead, and that admin is just trying to stop the bleeding. Probably something Sony Corp told him to do, otherwise we would see the “proof” either from admin or Sony. Funny admin went to great lengths to remove the rumor, when he himself is a rumor publishes?
Proof that it’s not true? Can’t prove a negative. Put logic 101 on your bucket list.
Can you prove the sun is NOT going to explode tomorrow?
Can you prove Angelina Jolie is NOT going to kiss my booty next week?
Can you prove you are NOT an idiot? I didn’t think so.
You are wrong.
http://rationalwiki.org/wiki/Negative_proof
What proof is there that it is real? This is the internet. You believe everything commenters say and images that are posted?
As a photographer heavily invested in Zeiss a-mount glass and a99 body system, I am glad this fake rumour was posted. I’m glad that it will spread like wildfire and be taken as truth. Why? Because Sony are now forced to get in front of this OFFICIALLY. admin trying to do damage control to this degree, to me, confirms my suspicion that this website is a clever unbranded Sony marketing ploy.
Rumours don’t negate other rumours, so it’s time to step up and get ahead of this, Sony. It’s time to speak to your loyal customer base with your own official voice and stop relying on underhanded rumour-based marketing. I for one am glad this backfired because I’m tired of being baited like this. Enough rumours. Enough. Say something official and deliver on it on time, Sony.
They have officially said that a-mount is not going to be discontinued multiple times I. 2014. They released the a77-2. They announced updates to the 24-70 and 16-35 lenses for this year. Thankfully all accessories for e-mount cameras are universal with a-mount bodies via the MIS. Sony has not duplicated any of the important lenses on e-mount.
Obviously the action is over on the e-mount side but sony doesn’t seem to be ending a-mount in the short term. Long-term (3-5) years, I personally doubt that a-mount camera bodies will continue to be released. Eventually either sony will develop a hybrid mount camera or an la-ea adapter that renders a-mount only bodies irrelevant. Once Sony truly releases duplicate lenses (24-70 2.8, 70-200 2.8, etc.) then the writing will be on the wall.
Ultimately though it comes down to sales and profitability. If the a-77 II and a99 successor sell well and bring in more revenue/profit than an e-mount equivalent Sony will be compelled to support it.
Well, let’s be honest – 16-35 and 24-70 coating revamps can’t be treated as any serious commitment.
There hasn’t been any solid A-mount release from Sony since a77II – and that’s almost a year ago already.
These two lenses are pretty great as they are. The 24-70 2.8 is arguably the best for any system or a close second to the newest Canon 24-70 (depending on one’s tastes). The AF motor for the 24-70 is probably it’s only minor flaw (at least in combination with an a99). I hope Sony brings SSM2 to the 85mm & 135mm lenses. They are more in need of the updates.
But the SSM II tracks 4x faster than the previous versions. I know because I upgraded to the 70-200mm F2.8 G SSM II and 300mm F2.8 G SSM II.
Also, don’t underestimate the difference in optical performance with new coatings. Coatings are as important as the glass used in the lens.
Yeah, no important lenses duplicated, apart from the 35/1.4 and 90/2.8 which would have updated ancient Minolta designs with better optics, SSM and weather sealing.
I’m not aware of a 90mm macro for a-mount. The 35mm G for a-mount is indeed old and to some degree outdated, but the three marquee zooms for a-mount are all 2.8 whereas the e-mount counterparts are f4. I tend to doubt Sony is going release 2.8 versions of all three within the next year or two. However, once the 16-35 and 24-70 a-mount versions are updated they will all have the newest SSM motors & coatings.
That is sooo true! We already have a matured lens lineup on A mount with nearly nothing missing. The DSLR market itself is quite dead, so Sony is wise by just having one (or two) top-level product for each sensor size. Pros (and even average consumer) don’t exchange their working horse every once in a while. A 2-year-cycle fits perfect.
So what do people expect Sony to do? Just because Sony can innovate faster (and more profitable) on E mount (but with every product not exactly hitting the nail), it doesn’t mean we need (and want) that same speed on A mount. And they already said they’re not abandoning A mount. But this is something the fanboy doesn’t want to hear.
I can’t understand why. If he really is a fanboy, he probably would cling to everything Sony says. And even if Sony would cancel A mount right now, I’d still buy lenses tomorrow because I do have a great camera and take beautiful images for the next 10 years.
This site, and others administered in the same way are known as Astro-turfers in the PR world. They have started to use propaganda techniques instead of ethical PR approaches. Completely unsavoury in my view.
We can easily agree with your argument.
Now it’s up to Sony to counter attack instead of wait and see what competitors do.
Sony should release items which will outperfom competition instead of an one step-up upgrade like they did with A7II
well said, it is about time Sony gave us some solid A mount news. I can understand if they fill it might distract from the E mount system and A7 series but we A mount users need some TLC. Sony respect developments but please respect those who have invested in your A mount system. From a very proud A mount and Sony user. Si
For Sony, an official statement would be smart, if they do NOT plan to abandon A-mount in the near future. But if they plan to abandon A-mount, I expect that they will do all they can to hide it. Otherwise, A-mount customers would stop investing in their systems. But Sony is a company who wants to sell their products no matter what. So, it’s up to you to deceide what the silence from Sony means. I have a clue.
Silence? How many more times do you want Sony executives to say the same thing? They’ve already said repeatedly that A-mount is continuing in parallel. They also just announced the development of new 24-70mm F2.8 ZA SSM II and 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM II lenses only a few months ago.
FE cameras are supplemental gear, but ergonomically, they’re awkward with long lenses and not even close to a replacement for a full sized system.
Well, if you are right, why so many people complaining about Sony not making serious statements about the future of A-mount? Then all A-mount fans should shut up and be happy, right?
Maybe because they don’t read Sony’s statements? I don’t know and I don’t care.
Internet trolls have been flogging the “A-mount is dead” nonsense since Sony entered the market. It was really bad prior to the A99 release as well.
“… It was really bad prior to the A99 release as well.”
That is indeed true.
The only thing I can see happening is eventually the A mount body style will be replaced with an E Mount and then the big lenses will start coming out. I really hope A mount sticks around for at least another 3-4 years!
Well it is one post for something that seems to have started here. I think its a stretch to call this a unusually or disproportionately large amount of energy.
Hey Minolta Fans,
i had enough of Sony and I’m tired of reading that A-Mount ist dead crap at least once a week. I stopped buying new lenses because of this already a year ago. What disturbs me most is that Sony seized producing real professional cameras when the A850 was discontinued. So today I made a descision: I’m selling my Sony A mount stuff tomorrow and will jump over to Nikon on monday. I wish you all good luck with A mount or with mirrorless or whatever you’re going to get into.
Cheers
Even if it was a bad joke, the side effect of it can be positive in the relationship between Sony and its users.
Sometimes we have to say “Wake up Sony!!! ” and slap them if they don’t move 😉
PS: Hope it will be ok for you Admin and thanks for your good job on SAR
PPS: Does they plan an efficient and fast LA-EA 6 at least to compensate the lack of A mount camera 😉 ?
If Sony abandons A-mount, than it will be because of most customers prefer E-mount or Canikon DSLRs. Because these options are BETTER for them, not because of Sony is sleeping. Or in other words, Sony possibly WAS sleeping when the DSLR market was healthy and growing, at the time that followed the Minolta purchase, but not now. Now it’s too late. Today it would be a sane decision to abandon A-mount and fully concentrate on E-mount.
Then Sony should make an efficient LA-EA adapter or share the proprietary data to Metabones because for now, Sigma and other lens manufacturers( I don’t talk about Zeiss, playing trust position with crazy prices) mainly know Amount;)
I can prove Angelina Jolie wont kiss your booty next week unless you can prove you are Brad Pitt
You can’t. It’s not impossible, just extremely unlikely. People confusing that all the time. LOL.
I got a question…
I just saw this:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5vZRz-lXhE#t=214
In video…the RX1 can have a shutter speed of 1/12800
How can the RX1 be blocked then for stills at the mechanical 1/2000 for f2, 1/3200 for f4 and 1/4000 for f5.6 and above?
Can the RX1 have a full electronic shutter?
Because in video it reads a significantly lower amount of data from the sensor. The difference between reading out 2mp (HD) versus 24mp is 12-fold.
Another disadvantage of an electronic shutter is that it often isn’t global, but rolling. Which means that there is a difference in time between reading the first section of the sensor and the last section which create the rolling shutter effect and includes wobble, skewness and smearing of moving objects.
Probably, the RX1 can’t have a full electronic shutter. It’s not made for it. A successor may be able to do it.
Thanks for the explanation.
Hmm .. I wish it was true , I will buy a used Sony 500mm F4 for $7000 after few years ! yaay
intersting aspect.
I think, if people believe that A mount is dying, it is very bad for Sony.
It makes people think, that Sony drops a system, if there is another more profitable system on the market. Recently there was more FF Emount gear released than Crop-Emount and some people start to believe Sony will drop APS-C emount. This people then maybe invest in Samsung NX or m4/3 or Fuji.
How long until we get a Sony FE camera that isn’t gimped out? How long do Sony shooters have to wait for simple pro features like dual card slots, no lossy raw files and ENTRY level DSLR AF. You salivate at the new FE models- yet they’re behind in all the wrong places. Auto focus is ESSENTIAL and cannot be understated in terms of absolute necessity for shooting anything other than brick walls- especially when shooting fast glass. Nothing ruins a shot more than missed focus. The lossy raw files are a serious issue- and yet A mount has none of these issues. Soon the A99II will be here and again- sony will deliver an all around performer that doesn’t make you wish you waited for the next serving. Until Sony stops gimping out their FE cameras, the hidden secret is that A mount cameras are still Sony’s best offerings- period.
There is nothing wrong with the AF. The A7II has excellent AF. Is it as good as Canons Pro DSLR…No not quite. But it is certainly better than the Nikon D800/810 even in low light (and certainly more accurate than all DSLRs due to on sensor AF. No more calibration issues). Yes the A7r isn’t great at AF in low light. But we are getting the Mark 2 very shortly. If you want to shoot sport use the A6000. It has excellent tracking AF.
The FE cameras are the only camera I use to shoot. I am yet to have an AF issue. In fact I have more confidence as due to the on sensor AF I know that if the camera says it is in focus then it IS in focus.
I have neither A7ii nor D810 – but I don’t believe A7ii has the faster AF of both. At least many internet reviews stated that. What is your source to claim A7ii beats D810 AF?
Personal experience…. Nikon has a edge with 3D tracking. A7II is more accurate in every other scenario.
You using one af point or automatic (all selected)? Seems unlikely for one af point as my D700 focuses better than the a7.
Firstly just note that I am talking about the A7II rather than the A7. So yes the A7 AF is not quite as good as the D800/810. But the improved AF on the A7II is in my opinion better than the Nikon
So in terms of the D800 and 810 single point AF. The nikon generally finds a focus point without too much trouble. The problem is that the focus is inaccurate in low light (fine when the light is good). So the AF system that the focus point is on the Eye and locked on. When in fact it is 6 inches behind or in front (no consistency). This issue is across multiply bodies all calibrated to the lenses in use. So body or calibration issue can be ruled out. Group AF on the D810 seems to do better in low light but for critical focus is too hit and miss. As mentioned you may not even notice it if you have a fairly good stop. But wide open on a longer lens. Sticks out like dogs balls…
Contrast this with the A7II which may hunt slightly more than the Nikon. will still find focus quickly in low light and is accurate 100% of the time due to the AF being sensor based. I am confident depending on the A7II for critical focus. If it is low light on the Nikon…Forget it.
Canon 5DIII and 1DX still beats both currently…
Gotcha. Good thing I have the 5D3 as well. 🙂
Yes…just a shame about the files…:)
A7 compression?
Not an issue. When comparing detail I can pull out of a sony file compared to a 5DIII, night and day. The extra DR compared to a CR2 is significant. I am yet to see any compression issues on the A7 A7II A7R or A7s.
Trololol. Whatever.
Sigh…Seriously??? Unlike most on these forums I work with pretty much every commercial camera available. I see raw files from cameras every day. Whether it is canon Nikon sony Hasselblad phase one whatever. No trolling. I know what I am talking about. The reason I shoot personally with the A7 cameras is because of what they offer. How is that trolling? Seriously do a test. Shoot a high contrast location that you want to recover the highlight and shadow detail from. Then in capture, lightroom…pull the files to see how much detail you can get back. Look at the canon file and see after about a stop the shadow detail get noisy and blocky. Then do the same to the A7 file. My guess is 2.5 stops the recovered shadow will still be much cleaner than the 5d. That is the extra 2.5 stops of DR working. Do that and then tell me I am a troll!
We were talking about AF. Then you switched to sensor and DR. Hence the trololol. Not angry, just amused.
yawn…
Says guy who wrote wall of text trolol.
Mate you’ve got troll on the brain…
U wot, m8?
I can’t agree with the D810 comparison. IN terms of constant auto focus, the D810 is extremely accurate- even with rack focusing. My biggest issue is the lossy raw files and no dual card slots. I get that CF cards rarely fail these days, but it’s not a risk I’m willing to take for paid work. There is just no reason Sony is not offering this.
Yes having worked with D800 and D810 in low light I can attest to its inaccuracy. Tethering a calibrated camera confirming focus (single point) on a object in low light. Focus is consistently out even with the camera confirming focus. Accuracy was rectified by switching to an A7r being able to see actual focus. Or the 5DII on another occasion because it focused correctly
At the moment Canon is still king of AF.
Interesting. All the reviews I’ve read and watched don’t indicate that. I agree on the Canon AF. My plan is to not switch- stick with SLT till Sony irons out the kinks with FE. I do believe it’s the future, just not yet.
I want to buy a small FF cam, FF emount is therefore a very good candidate, especially because it is a capable video cam without extra hardware.
But I won’t buy a current model (and very likey no A7Rii) because this lineup is so far beyond its possibilities:
-no popup-flash
-no touchscreen
-no compact housing
And I doubt, there is a technical reason, not to have:
-fast framerate
-fast AF
Pop up flash isn’t to bad an issue. There are some fairly cheap and small flashes you can purchase. No touchscreen- EXACTLY. My olympus gear as mirror less goes is so much more accurate with AF it’s not even funny. The touchscreen for focusing cannot be understated. It’s almost a guaranteed perfect focus every time using it. My biggest issue is the lossy RAW files in which you get weird artifacts around highlights. I thought it was a joke and laughed about it until I saw it showing up in many of my photos. Nope, gotta go.
Yes, the preferences differ.
Sometimes when I do street photography, I leave the house with nothing than my Cam with one mounted lens. Don’t want to have a flash attached, because of size – not even a small one. But in 10% of my situations I wish, I had a flash – a tiny popup for fill light would be good for that.
Lossless or RAW (or better compression scheme) is not on my top 5 wishlist, but I will not complain if I get it 🙂
Pop up flash IS an issue. One word: wireless.
I hate popup-flashes. So, big thanks to Sony for making A99 and A7 without crappy popup-flashes. Hopefully this will not change.
“…Nothing ruins a shot more than missed focus.”
Yes, if you was able to make the shot at all. Missing the right moment for the shot is worse then missed focus in my book. That means, shutter release priority is even more important than AF performance.
“…lossy raw files are a serious issue…”
Not really. It’s an issue but not a serious one. If Sony does keep lossy RAW in their mirrorless line in the future, I’m pretty sure the next A-mount body will have lossy RAW as well.
“… the hidden secret is that A mount cameras are still Sony’s best offerings…”
If true, than it is indeed well hidden. So, if Sony wouldn’t hide that secret, E-mount customers will suddenly switch to the “better” system, right? Otherwise, E-mount sales figures wouldn’t make sense. Poor E-mount customers are so ignorant, that they buying the inferior camera system.
This is what I think: A-mount was not successful, because it is inferior to Canikon in the eyes of th majority. Same is true to A vs E mount. Some, like you. disagree and are therefore A-mount customers. Sorry, but I can’t see any hidden secret.
Actually, the compressed RAW in FE cameras is compromise to allow for miniaturization of the data pipeline in a compact body. There’s always going to be compromises when you design for size.
A-mount doesn’t have the same size constraints which means more space for electronics, so it allows for more circuitry to optimize for top-notch image quality without compromise.
Also, if you question the importance of fast & accurate AF, you clearly aren’t a professional photographer.
Do you know that, or is that your assumption? I’m in computer science and as far as I know, the data bandwidth for transferring the processed image data (compression is the very last step before transferring to mass storage), is by far the least problem in camera electronics. What matters is processing power, or to be more specific, cooling in small systems. Uncompressed RAW consumes far less CPU cycles than compressed RAW. So, I’m not a camera engineer, but my guess is, that you are completely wrong.
I’m a professional photographer going off what Sony says themselves. Again, when you design for size, there are compromises.
Do I get this straight? Sony is explicitly saying that their compressed RAW format is a compromise due to the size of their small camera bodies? That would be new to me. I thought they said that more in general, but not explicitly regarding RAW compression. But I’m thankful for any clarification.
BTW: I worked as a professional photographer for 12 years. But in a studio, so, I never shot a commercial photo with AF. But even without being a sports or wedding pro, I still think the right moment is more important than perfect focus. Remember, I said AF is not the most important. I didn’t say it is not important.
You are correct. Compression would just help with storage, but would require more processing power. Source: college educated. 🙂
If is true. Why does the A99 also shoot a compressed RAW??
I don’t know a single shooter that shoots uncompressed on the Nikon. Not necessary. Slows down your shooting (so you miss shots) no difference in image quality. Sony was smart. Faster frame rate. No loss in quality. Still waiting for these supposed examples demonstrating the issue. I have seen no difference personally.
Well, I have found the a99 AF to be pretty terrible. So I would disagree that current a mount bodies do not have this issue. I found the a7s to be a faster focusing camera in moderate to dim light. And the coverage….well it’s about as good as cameras from two generations ago.
Well that sucks. I was really leaning toward the A99 this time around. Bummer. I’ll have to try it out. I haven’t read anything describing the AF as terrible. Then again, I would expect it to be a bit behind at this point in time.
The AF is a recycled aps-c part. There are only 16 points basically clustered in the center 1/9th of the frame. The cross points are also limited to the center. The tracking is great in daylight / bright light…if you can keep your moving subject framed in the very center.
Sony cheaped out on the AF module perhaps to keep the cost below the 5d3 and d800 but I think many users would have preferred a full frame AF module versus the cheaper price.
For studio work, the AF is fine.
Well maybe Sony will start to see that they better make some kind of announcement about the there A-mount future camera’s then NOTHING at ALL !!!!!! they are harming themself and all the A-mount customers by saying NOTHING OFFICIALLY, Sony : is that so hard to understand ??
> “… picked up that image from the comment system without to question the validity of the “leak” taken from an anonymous(!) …”.
Look at this way, they plagiarized you and took a fake; from now on they can do a bit of their OWN homework before the CnP.
… followed next by a burglar that breaks into your home but steals the trashbags; tripping on the speaker cord on the way out !
When a Business Owner pays cheap everyone often get what was paid for and seldom more; even 4x cheap may not be enough. It is when a Business Owner can afford a sufficient amount of wage and time for sufficiently skilled employees to do a proper job; then crap is not served and the Business is appreciated by all. Applies at 90% of the Businesses, thus their closures.
Worse, they “credit” you so it IS your fault.
The ‘fake’ went viral because
– It comes as no surprise. As that is what most users expected.
– It is what Sony should do as SLT is a dead end, that the market hasn’t responded to.
– It would allow Sony to (as the ‘fake’ correctly points out) redistribute their resources to the FE mount line. As these cameras are a success in the market.
It wouldn’t have been picked up so enthusiastically if it wasn’t correct. Fake or otherwise…
The reason for the market not responding to the A-mount system has nothing to do with the SLT technology, since most regular consumers (not pros or enthusiasts) don’t really understand the difference between an SLT and a ‘true’ DSLR anyway.
No, the reason is the same as the reason why the market didn’t respond to Sony’s DSLRs either: that the dominance of Canon and Nikon in that market segment makes it almost impossible for smaller players to gain significant market share. The strength of those two brands in the DSLR field is simply too great to allow any serious competitors. Look at Pentax; despite the passionate advocacy of the loyal Pentax fans, they have never managed to get more than a single digit market share.
It is picked up enthusiastically by Canikon users wanting it to be true. They have been saying that Sony will pull out of the market since they took over from Minolta and they have been proved wrong over and over.
SLT isn’t a dead end, it is an alternative to a flappy vibrating mirror and small dark optical viewfinder.
Dead end? Are you even a photographer?
We should be thanking Sony for SLT
because it makes 10 FPS-12 FPS with simultaneous continuous AF and full time live view
possible in cameras at an affordable price ($1199 for A77II / $1999 A99).
No other system has that!
When I suggest that SLT is a dead end technology I am stating the obvious.
The potential growth for SLT is always going to be handicapped for two important reasons
1. You are always going to lose light and sharpness due to the SLT mirror. That will never change
2. SLT is a ‘dumb’ AF system. What I mean by this, is that SLT has no ability to know what it is looking at (basically the same reason DSLR phase detect AF modules will eventually be replaced). It reads distance without knowing any other attributes. Modern sensor based live image AF with faster processing power is able to understand features about the subject you are trying to photography. Shape, colour, movement, subject type (ie person, landscape, sports etc). We see this in the A6000 and yes the A77II (sensor based AF). Which is exactly the point. As on sensor phase detect improves, and continues to integrate intelligent AF. The SLT module becomes the ‘dumbest’ part of the AF system. Out of date and unintelligent.
So yes without a doubt SLT is a dead end technology.
It must be remembered that SLT was a work around solution to allow a mirror-less camera design to have a phase detection AF system. On sensor phase detection as now advanced to a point where that module is unnecessary and potentially holding back AF performance in the future as explained above
Tracking AF is also available on the A6000 at 11fps so yeah…you know….Welcome to the future.
I agree.. its a fad. Its much easier to feed my horse hay and it will not crash into a wall. These cars with so few gas stations and the need for the driver to be 100% attentive are a gimmick.. here in 1905 we have all the tech advances will ever need.
It’s all Sony’s fault, with open A-mount strategy en not like now NO INFO what so ever about the future of Amount, this would not be happening, dispite this rumor is fake, the Sony behavior about the A-mount predict so far the end of Amount.
One could ask this simple question, is there a future for the SLT technique ??? because that’s the answer if Sony A-mount is dead or will still have a future or not ?? what do you think ?
I just dont understand why Sony dont say something officially. If Sony dont say something soon. Then i will skip the a-mount system. Either go back to Canon, or switch to Nikon. I will ofcourse then keep my A7 and my lenses for that system. But. Sooner, or later, CaNikon wil enter the mirrorless system, and for them have a system with the same mount as they have with the DSLR system. And when that happens, more and more people wil say goodbye Sony
“Sooner, or later, CaNikon will …”
True, if they do that with the same effort they put in their DSLR systems. However, I’m not sure if that will happen anytime soon. But, if they do that, goodbye Sony, because they are very innovative in single aspects, but are not able to build well rounded products and they are successful with E-mount because of the lack of competition.
Sony has said A-mount system will continue to be developed in parallel, repeatedly. Then they announced the development of 24-70mm F2.8 ZA SSM II and 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM II which are set to be released this year.
I don’t know how many times everyone needs Sony to repeat the same information.
Thats because its only a small update, Thats say for Sony to make. But i have not seen a new FF A-Mount camera. I have not seen a 24 mm f.1,4 A-Mount lens. Sony don’t make new lenses for the a-mount system. Just upgrade older lenses
Sony doesn’t need many “NEW” lenses because full sized systems are becoming a niche product for professionals and Sony already has covered 16mm Fisheye to 500mm covered. Some F4 options would be nice, but from a business standpoint, that doesn’t make sense anymore. At most, if I were Sony I would release the 24-135 F4 G SSM that was leaked several years ago, and continue to update the rest of the system to SSM so they can remove the in-body AF motor in future bodies.
@admin:
if you really have that 100% info that a-mount will be updated with new lenses and bodies, so pease share. 100% is more than SR5….
If the source has lied in everything he said before, it would be indeed very unlikely that the above statement is true, but it is no proof that it is fake. A proof would be a contrary statement from Sony or even better, an official long term roadmap.
If they plan to abandon A-mount, they would harming themself if they would say that. Because then their current A-mount market would collapse. Isn’t that easy to understand?
LOL
The Fake made no mention of pulling out of the market. Rather dropping A-mount in favour of FE mount. As that is the format that is selling and unhampered by SLT or a “flappy vibrating mirror”
Dropping A-mount means pulling out of the DSLR market, which is what this is about. The DSLR and MILC markets have very little overlap, attracting rather different kinds of photographers.
And yet the Sony’s A7 sells very well in spite of Canon and Nikon etc etc.
So…consumers are stupid?!? No…the market simply is not interested in SLT. It was always a stop gap technology with a finite life span.
Gav, you’re mistaken.
Sony FE-mount is not replacing many professional Canon or Nikon systems for the same reasons I haven’t purchased an FE-mount camera to replace my A-mount system.
Sony FE-mount cameras sell well because other photographers can adapt their lenses to it without leaving their primary system. It also sells well because photographers love having a compact option. It’s especially beneficial for backpacking & landscape photographers, but also for street photography and portraits. It also sells well to amateurs who have no need for a full-sized system as it would just make for unnecessary bulk.
For everything else, photographers still need a full sized system.
The A7 is not a DSLR, is it? I was talking about the DSLR market segment, which is where the A-mount cameras are competing.
It’s simply not true that the market isn’t interested in SLT technology. The reason for the failure of A-mount to make a dent in the market, either with DSLRs or SLTs, is what I outlined in my previous comment: the presence of a strong duopoly with brand recognition and a huge number of legacy users. If Canon and Nikon switched to SLT technology, and Sony started making regular DSLRs, do you think that would affect the market shares in any meaningful way? I can tell you that it wouldn’t change the market at all.
yes.. size has nothing to do with it. its all about the mirror configuration. Problem is Sony at one time did 5 DSLR bodies in a year and still was a distant #3.. DSLRs are an aging format, with more and more revenue coming from existing users who tend to stay with systems they have. SLT is what give people a reason to look at Sony.. because it provides unique ability in an SLR format. without Sony is just like Canon with fewer lenses. With SLT it is the most advanced EVF full sized camera platform around.
A-mount doesn’t need to have SLT. They proved that with A99 which has on-sensor PDAF. The ONLY reason A-Mount still uses SLT tech is because traditional dedicated PDAF sensors still greatly out perform on-sensor PDAF when it comes to tracking.
It is very likely that A-mount will also end up completely mirrorless too.
Does that mean future A-mount will be big mirrorless with empty space instead of a mirror box and long flange distance, or does that mean Sony will return to optical viewfinders? I’m curious.
@admin: How about a vote if A-mount users would be more happy to see a A99ii SLT or a A900ii DSLR.
Sony has made it clear they aren’t going back to OVF.
Also, we won’t ever get a roadmap for A-mount because A-mount has tons of competition. Sony can be somewhat open regarding E-mount right now because it doesn’t have much competition. The minute Canon or Nikon release competitive ILCs, I would expect that to change.
Got it. But I still have no idea what “move away from SLT” could mean in practical terms.
Simple. On Sensor PDAF. They already have it on A99. Once it tracks as well as a dedicated PDAF sensor, they won’t need the pellicle mirror anymore.
Thats exactly what I said above. Empty space instead of a mirror.
Once there is empty space, then the sensor could be moved forward by 28mm to accommodate e-mount lenses without a spacer.
To bad the bayonet is different.
Haha. We are such brilliant armchair scientists, we should build our own camera.
Really? It’s different? I had not noticed. You are brilliant, Captain Obvious.
Think outside the box. With the mirror box eliminated, the sensor can adjust the flange distance along the z-axis. Simple, inexpensive mount adapters can be used (akin to m42 adapters) foregoing the large, expensive la-ea4 adapter since the AF camera motor will already be built in.
Sony has invested R&D into the feasibility of this hybridization. They certainly would like to open up the market of their a-mount customers to e-mount lenses (as they married the accessory line-up via the MIS).
If you have to use an adapter anyway, why should they add a complicated mechanism like that, which would be far more expensive than the current E-mount adapter and would make the big A-mount bodies even bigger.
Maybe you are right and I’m not such a brilliant armchair scientist as you. So, I take it back.
Re-read my second paragraph or compare an m42 adapter to an la-ea4. The former is a less than 10mm thick, light, durable and cheap ($10). An la-ea 4 is bulky for an adapter (due to housing an AF drive and SLT), delicate (I rented one to test and it came with a big warning to avoid accidentally touching either side of the mirror or else there would be a pricey surcharge) and expensive ($350).
As for the complicated mechanism – minolta proved this feasibility already in 1996: http://photo.net/equipment/contax/ax
Empty Space? They could do Z-axis shift, 5-way IBS and all sorts of things with that space. Getting rid of SLT opens up a world of possibilities but they should keep it until on-sensor PDAF legitimately surpasses dedicated PDAF sensors.
LOOOOOL. You are funny. We are talking about an A-mount or A/E-mount-hybrid. If you eliminate the mirror you have to leave this space empty (at least if you want to use A-mount glass). Or you have to move your Z-axis/5wayIBIS/(or whatever) mechanism out of the way every time you take a photo. The alternate solution would be, that you make this mechanisms transparent or semi-transparent, just like the mirror that you have just eliminated. Good luck with that.
If you like it or not, during exposure that space have to be empty or transparent or semi-transparent. You have to place any of your mechanisms (or “all sorts of things”) on top, below, left, right or behind that EMPTY space. Period.
Sorry, I cant stop laughing. I’m pis*ing my pants. You guys are so fu**ing brilliant!
I’m out of here.
It would be great if Sony actually released some Sony A-mount products and not just minor updates. It does seem clear from Sony’s actions that E-Mount has been the flavour of the year(s)… I sure hope this changes soon and Sony make some great changes…
The current Alpha Mount lens (optical) quality is ‘ok’ and not great for the new 50M sensors, I was hoping for example the new 70-200 would have been ‘refreshed’ with much higher quality, detail, sharpens..etc.. however sadly it seems the price is crazy high with very little benefit (VERY VERY SAD!), not to mention competing lenses are cheaper and also include optical stabilisation so one would think Sony ‘should’ cost less? These are the silly things I wish Sony addressed and took a little more seriously.
I still have my fingers crossed Sony will get onto A-Mount this year as I’m sure the A99 is due for it’s update this year as it will be heading for 3 years old soon.
Looking forward to some Amount news, rumours and products this year (fingers crossed for us all!)
How about a industry wide wireless trigger standard similar to WiFi or NFC. THAT would be COOL, not that little flimsy popup flashes misused for triggering strobes.
I even wonder why the big players did not already have bodies with a built in wireless trigger for their own branded flashes.
But I think it is because people want to spend extra money, people want to have extra bulk mounted on the camera to look more important. Maybe there are people hating built in wireless triggers, because an external trigger gives more range or the built in trigger could cause problems.
Happy shooting to you.
B&H sales charts are irrelevant to Sony. What matters to them is that the cameras produce a profit and that this profit is greater than or equal to what an equivalent e-mount camera sale would bring them.
Sales and profit are not the same. But sales are the most important component to make profit. Because all fixed costs like R&D or assembly lines shrink rapidly on a per unit basis when sales figures go up. Once you reach that critical point were you make a per unit profit, sales figures are more or less the only thing what matters.
Hey Ex-Minolta Fan,
Good luck.
Very few need 50 MP sensors.. I see this move by canon as a cynical move to get people on the treadmill buying better lenses. Outside of very advanced Pro needs no one needs 50 MP few could tell the difference when used in prints or especially web. But it keeps people form noticing the below average color and dynamic range performance of Canon sensors.. Be smart 24 is more than enough for 90% of users and 99% would never need more than 36 MPs the costs in other important aspects is too high with current technology. BTW the A77M2 is not a minor update.. But yes Sony has a windows here were FF mirrorless they are THE ONLY maker. so they are working fast to move years ahead of others.
I hear what you are saying Ken but think back 5-10 years many said what would you ever need more than 12MP for? now days as you have done it’s become the entry is 24MP and ‘some’ needing 36MP… it’s a game that is for ever improving and increasing, lenses are suppose to outlast your camera gear for years to come (or did so for a long time)… however many Sony lenses seem to have hit the limit and one would think the next generation of lenses would be looking to support 100+ MP…etc as we all know Sony is already working on this sensor but we can’t even get 36MP out of the current lenses…etc..
I’m the same as you for 90% of my work 24MP is just fine for my needs, there has been the odd time a little extra crop would have been nice to have but it’s not common for my needs.
I also understand about the window Sony has with FF Mirrorless, I just wish Sony could run and update the a-mount system as well as the innovation in this line of camera’s has been very little compared to how well they were doing 3-4 years ago with it… Going on the past few years I must admit I’ve been very worried from the A-Mount system point of view as I don’t feel Sony are taking it seriously, nor do I feel they are pitching it like they said they would (the more Pro market..etc..etc)
Any way like I said I’m really looking forward to 2015 as I think the time has come were sony has to update the A99… the A77II I did not purchase and still using my old A77 but will also shortly be using my A700 and A850 in some studio and doing some test shots as with good light those camera’s are still good and I need to work out which works best in studio environment and situations for my needs..etc..
All the best and wish but both well with A-Mount this year!
Potential A Mount customers are not buying A Mount the market isn’t interested in SLT. Look in any camera store at the dust covered A Mount cameras.
I think yes.
For mirrorless, there will always be black out & slide show effect in the EVF,
which is not perfect for tracking fast object.
But with SLT, it is possible to use EVF without black out & slide show effect.
Sony has the patent of the design already.
It is just when or will sony willing to make one.
Tethered as in live view or with mirror down (viewfinder showing image)? I have a 5D3 and tested it against the D800. At the time, the 5D3 won out in low-light. Don’t know if the D810 improved af yet. Heard good things about the D750, but haven’t confirmed it myself personally.
Not live view. Standard tethering using the cameras normal AF system. Wouldn’t want to use Nikon’s live view…..Ever.