Sony has completed updating its α7 line of CSCs with the introduction of the α7S II.
The just-announced Sony ?7S II, shown here with the Zeiss-branded Vario-Tessar 24-70mm zoom lens. (Source: Sony.)
Offering expanded sensitivity and dynamic range across the entire ISO gamut, the ?7S II also features 5-axis image stabilisation plus the ability to shoot 4K video with full pixel readout and no pixel binning in full-frame format. These improvements are among a list of customer-perceived weaknesses to be addressed by Sony in the new model. The company lists the following as the main enhancements in the ?7S II:
1. Ultra-high sensitivity up to 409600 with low noise across the whole range, thanks to the combination of its 35mm full-frame 12-megapixel sensor and BIONZ X image processing engine.
2. Wide dynamic range across entire ISO range delivering smooth tonal gradation from dark to bright conditions.
3. In-camera 5-axis optical image stabilisation similar to the systems in the ?7 II and ?7R II cameras for expanded shooting possibilities.
4. Internal 4K movie recording in the XAVC S format, featuring full pixel readout without pixel binning in full-frame format as well as for Full HD movies. The ?7S II also has the ability to shoot 4x/5x slow motion footage internally which can be immediately reviewed on the camera screen.
5. Wide range of professional movie functionality including S-Gamut3.Cine/S-Log3, new Gamma Assist Display, enhanced Zebra Function, Full HD 120fps recording and 4x/5x slow motion recording and full pixel readout without pixel binning in full-frame format
6. High-speed AF with enhanced accuracy in wide ranging scenes and advanced shooting functions. The AF system now offers 169 AF points for greater accuracy and can operate in low-light situations (as low as EV-4). When shooting video, the AF performance is twice as fast as the predecessor model.
7. The XGA OLED Tru-Finder in the ?7S II has been upgraded to provide higher magnification of 0.78x (roughly 38.5 degrees in diagonal field of view) and features ZEISS T* Coating to minimise internal reflections. It can also show how exposure compensation, white balance and other selected settings are affecting the displayed image.
8. The body design and controls have been refined to make the ?7S II more user friendly, reliable and intuitive. Silent shooting mode can be activated for 5fps continuous shooting and reliability has been enhanced with reduced-vibration shutter movement. The lens mount has been further reinforced to ensure greater resilience, particularly when attaching third party lenses and users can now charge the camera via a USB power supply whilst the camera is in operation, thus extending battery life.
9. The ?7S II is also Wi-Fi and NFC compatible and fully functional with Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile application available for Android and iOS platforms, as well as Sony’s growing range of PlayMemories Camera Apps.
The new ?7S II full-frame interchangeable lens digital camera from Sony will be available in Australia before the end of this year. Pricing has yet to be confirmed, although US and EU websites have the body listed at US$3000 and €3400, respectively. For more information, phone Sony Australia on 1300 720 071 or visit www.sony.com.au.
