Sony has released details of its next-generation Alpha 7R V (model ILCE-7RM5) camera, which features an advanced AI processing unit for improved subject recognition and capture.
The new Sony Alpha 7R V offers many improvements to handling, durability and performance. (Source: Sony.)
The newest addition to the Alpha 7R line-up combines a 61-megapixel (effective) sensor and BIONZ XR processing engine to enable new breakthroughs in subject recognition and capture for both still photography and video. The Alpha 7R V also includes the most effective image stabilisation system yet offered in any of Sony’s Alpha cameras, as well as refined 8K movie output, a new 4-axis multi-angle monitor, high-speed communication functions, high-level operability and smooth workflow integration. Real-time Recognition AF provides advanced accuracy and broader subject recognition thanks to a new AI processing unit with deep learning. The system has been developed to include subjects like animals, vehicles and insects. The Alpha 7R V also includes continuous shooting at up to 10 fps with AF/AE tracking as well as tenacious real-time tracking, faster and more precise wide-area, high-density AF, silent vibration-free continuous shooting at up to 7 fps and a buffer memory that can accommodate up to 583 compressed RAW images, recorded at high speed. Features like focus bracketing and full-time direct manual focus are also available.
The full-frame, back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor is combined with latest BIONZ XR image processing engine to offer an effective resolution of approximately 61.0 million megapixels across a native sensitivity range of ISO 100 to ISO 32000 for both stills and movies and wide dynamic range with up to 15 stops for stills. Built-in stabilisation has been updated with a high-precision image stabilisation unit, advanced gyro sensors and optimised image stabilisation algorithms for stills and video. In addition to the 8-step compensation effect for stills, the new stabilisation algorithm provides precise detection and control right down to the single-pixel level, allowing the camera to offer Pixel Shift Multi Shooting to record multiple pixel-shifted images for later compositing on a computer using Sony’s Imaging Edge Desktop Ver.3.5 software. Sixteen-frame composites with approximately 240.8 million pixels (19,008 x 12,672 pixels) can be produced from data that is equivalent to approximately 963.2 million pixels.
Advanced video capabilities include support for 8K 24/25p video, 4K video oversampled from 6.2K without binning, a high-efficiency MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec, intra recording and 10-bit 4:2:2 recording. The Alpha 7R V also includes evolved subject recognition for unprecedented real-time tracking reliability, breathing compensation and the ability to use camera metadata for post-processing and advanced in-body image stabilisation. In-body Active mode stabilisation can be combined with the built-in IS in selected lenses for more stable framing and smooth footage.
The new 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor combines the utility of a conventional tilting monitor with side-opening vari-angle flexibility and an updated electronic viewfinder with 9.44 million dots. Dual CFexpress Type A/SDXC compatible media slots are provided and the new menu system enables improved usability, along with touch control and a wide range of customisable functions. High-speed Wi-Fi (802.11ac) 2×2 MIMO communication is augmented by a wired SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps connection via a USB-C port to support remote shooting as well as still and movie file transfers, including via UVC/UAC, allowing direct streaming from the camera even in 4K (QFHD) resolution with audio as well.
The durable magnesium alloy chassis offers improved heat dissipation for extended recording times, an upgraded dust and moisture resistant design and other refinements for maximum reliability in challenging working environments. The ALPHA 7RV is also compatible with the new PCK-LG3 Screen Protect Glass Sheet, which maintains touch sensitivity while protecting the LCD monitor against stains and fingerprints.
The Alpha 7R V will be available in Australia from November 2022 at an RRP of AU$6199. The PCK-LG3 Screen Protect Glass Sheet will be available in Australia from December at RRP $59. A product video on the new Alpha 7R V can be viewed here.
