Sony Announces 10.3 Effective Megapixel Digital Camera with Zeiss 24mm Wide-Angle Lens
All-in-One professional quality solution The Sony Cyber-shot R1 is the world's first digital camera that combines a large 10.3 effective Megapixel CMOS sensor, and a high quality 24mm - 120mm (35mm) ZEISS Zoom lens in the same body, allowing 'live' viewing with the free-angle LCD screen. It is the latest breakthrough in high-class image quality at an affordable price.
(PRWEB via Spex Co.UK) September 8,
2005 -- Sony announces 10.3 Effective Megapixel Digital Camera with Zeiss 24mm
Wide-Angle Lens.
Professional image quality, integral wide angle -
telephoto lens, revolutionary shooting style
All-in-One professional
quality solution
The Sony
Cyber-shot R1 is the world's first digital
camera that combines a large 10.3 effective Megapixel CMOS sensor, and a
high quality 24mm - 120mm (35mm) ZEISS Zoom lens in the same body, allowing
'live' viewing with the free-angle LCD screen. It is the latest breakthrough in
high-class image quality at an affordable price.
Full story at http://products.sony.co.uk/sony_dsc-r1_asp.asp
Large
Size 10.3 effective Megapixel CMOS
Top-class image quality is guaranteed
through the inclusion of a large-sized Sony CMOS image sensor (effective 21.5mm
x 14.4mm), uniquely designed to significantly improve dynamic range,
sensitivity, and signal-to-noise ratio. The large Sony CMOS sensor is able to
capture more light, reducing noise levels, allowing higher shutter speeds, and
therefore reducing the effects of handshake for beautifully clear, true to life
pictures. Picture blur is significantly reduced because of the camera's high
sensitivity capability, with noise being simultaneously reduced as a result of
the newly developed Clear RAW NR feature. The signal is amplified within each
pixel, resulting in ultra-fast signal transfer, no smear and ultra low power
consumption.
Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* quality and flexibility
The
dedicated 24mm-120mm (35mm) wide-angle zoom lens of the Cyber-shot R1 is
integrated into the body of the camera. With its F2.8-4.8 aperture, the camera
is designed to exacting specifications for optimum performance, reduced internal
reflections and fast, quality photography, even at low light levels. Images
taken by the Cyber-shot R1 are razor-sharp with excellent colour and contrast
rendition.
The unique 'short back focus design' of the Cyber-shot R1
also allows the last lens to be positioned immediately in front of the CMOS
sensor, contributing to a reduction in chromatic aberration. On the Cyber-shot
R1 this distance has been reduced to an astonishing 2.1mm.
The
flexibility of the lens design also means there is no need to change lenses to
capture the shot you want. This allows the Cyber-shot R1 to be exceptionally
fast in use - faster than most other high-end cameras. For example, the
Cyber-shot R1 is capable of taking a macro of a butterfly, zooming in on an
object in the distance, and then taking a wide-angle landscape shot, all within
a few seconds without the need for changing lenses.
The fixed-lens design
of the Cyber-shot R1 provides enhanced durability, reducing the risk of dust or
foreign bodies scratching or damaging the sensor as a result of multiple lens
changes. The lens block designed specifically for the Cyber-shot R1 is made up
of 10 groups of 12 elements, four of which are aspherical.
Sony and Carl
Zeiss in partnership
Working with Carl Zeiss, Sony has developed a highly
qualified high performance lens to realise a higher contrast and resolution even
at the edge of images. The lens of the Cyber-shot R1 has been designed through
simulating MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) and chromatic aberration.
Additionally, the Carl Zeiss T* multi layer coating, already appreciated by
professional photographers the world over, ensures higher quality images with
vastly reduced ghosting and flare.
Real Imaging Processor for ultimate
performance
The Real Imaging Processor has been further enhanced for the
Cyber-shot R1 to provide more detailed, purer and vivid colours. The white
balance accuracy has also been improved to differentiate between indoor and
outdoor shooting, producing more precise colour. The microprocessor has been
further customised for the large CMOS image sensor, resulting in a much shorter
response time and greatly reduced image noise. With it's ultra-low power
consumption, STAMINA power efficiency, and the use of an intelligent InfoLITHIUM
battery, the Cyber-shot R1 can carry on shooting for an amazing 500* shots,
without the need for recharging the battery.
Free-Angle LCD to shoot like
no other
The inclusion of a large 2.0-inch "Over Head" free-angle LCD screen,
facilitates a revolutionary approach to shooting with the Cyber-shot R1, unique
in its class. Combined with the ultra-bright (luminance 600 Cd/m2) screen, the
swivel action allows you to shoot from horizontal or vertical levels, high or
low angles or waist height, to maximise creativity.
High sensitivity for
reduced blur
Picture blur is significantly reduced because of the high
sensitivity capability of the Cyber-shot R1. Traditionally this would lead to an
increase in noise, however with the use of the large size CMOS sensor, and the
newly developed Clear RAW NR feature, the signal to noise ratio is improved. The
Clear RAW NR original algorithm system reduces colour and luminance noise,
enabling shooting with significantly higher sensitivity than current Cyber-shot
models, using a selectable ISO sensitivity mode (up to ISO 3200). This ensures
images with less noise and finer detail. This especially benefits customers when
they shoot in low-light conditions, or when shooting moving
objects.
A.G.C.S for rich colours and optimal contrast
The Cyber-shot
R1 features an Advanced Gradation Control System to obtain optimal image
contrast. The capability to evaluate distribution of the brightness on-screen
and apply an appropriate Gamma curve (luminance distribution) means that images
can be altered in real-time for a clearly defined image. For example shooting in
difficult conditions such as a poorly lit subject and brightly lit background is
not a problem for Cyber-shot R1 - using the A.G.C.S. feature, brightness can be
balanced out, ensuring an evenly lit image.
Advanced display for live
preview
You can view a 'live' preview of the shot you are framing, so you can
clearly see what the end result will look like before you take the shot. The
improved display layout on the Cyber-shot R1 shows the basic camera settings
such as shutter speed, F number, and EV diagram in the bottom area of both LCD
and EVF without overlapping the subject in the image area. In addition to the
basic settings, the following functions provide further assistance when
shooting:
- Histogram
The display shows a live histogram when
shooting, ideal for adjustment of brightness. Additionally, in playback a
histogram also appears for each of the three separate RGB colours, this is ideal
for checking the detailed balance of each colour and then making necessary
adjustments.
- Zebra Pattern
This uses black and white stripes (Zebra
Pattern) to indicate areas where the brightness exceeds a certain level
resulting in burnt-out highlights. The exposure can then be adjusted
accordingly.
- Grid lines
This helps when photographing a horizontal
or vertical subject. It can also be used artistically and creatively when
composing a picture to a particular pattern.
- Enlarged Focus
The
focusing point appears in an enlarged image when the manual focus ring is used,
for more accurate focusing.
Choose your JPEG colour mode
Users now
have a choice of three colour modes on the Cyber-shot R1:
- Standard (sRGB):
a Sony-developed colour arithmetic process used on all Cyber-shot cameras,
giving natural and true colour reproduction.
- Vivid (sRGB): lowers
brightness and emphasises primary colour depth for impressive results with Reds,
Greens and Blues, rather like a saturated slide film. Scenes like a deep blue
sky, an intense red flower, and spectacular green scenery will be expressed with
lively vivid colour.
- Adobe RGB: increased gamut (colour range) for a
larger colour space and better reproduction, to meet professional and high
quality picture environments such as desktop publishing with Adobe
Photoshop.
Image Data Converter SR for picture adjustment
flexibility
Of course, RAW mode is also available for the most demanding
users, allowing the highest picture quality with no compression, and preserving
the original RGB data and camera settings. The supplied RAW development software
(Image Data Converter SR) is particularly versatile compared to competitors'
software. It incorporates fast processing, display and development, with
improved operability such as dual view and navigator windows. The software
allows adjustment of the white balance and exposure, colour modes such as Vivid
or Standard, and provides high compatibility with Adobe Photoshop.
Share
The Cyber-shot R1 also features PictBridge, the standard for printing
directly to photo printers, such as the Sony DPP-FP50. Pictures can be printed
conveniently with the USB Direct Print option.
The next stage
The
Cyber-shot R1 has a range of dedicated optional accessories to further extend
the shooting possibilities, from wide and tele lenses, to ND and PL filters,
from cases and bags to versatile external flash units.
Your
language
Sony has increased the choice of local menu languages to a
staggering 15 on the Cyber-shot R1, another great solution to ensure easier
operation. Menu languages now include: Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish,
French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian,
Spanish, and Swedish.
The Cyber-shot R1 will be available throughout
Europe from mid- November 2005.
NOTES FOR EDITORS
Please find below
further details about products and services highlighted in the Press Release:
Shooting style revolution
The Cyber-shot has been designed from the
ground up with picture quality and operability number one priorities. The Free
Angle LCD screen allows shooting from angles not possible with digital SLRs. The
shutter release has been positioned in an ergonomic location, and creative
flexibility controls such as ISO, WB, Flash Mode, AF Mode and one-push AF are
all positioned within easy reach of the left thumb area. Primary shooting
controls (shoot, playback, magnify, move/check focus, and delete) have all been
placed around the right thumb area.
Fast response
The Real Imaging
Processor at the heart of the Cyber-shot R1 has been enhanced further so in
Preview mode the camera is ready to shoot a remarkable 0.68 seconds after it is
switched on. The shutter time lag is only 0.29 seconds, shutter release lag is
only 0.0075 seconds and the camera can take up to three photographs in quick
succession at a speed of 3 fps in high speed burst mode.
Storage and
Connectivity
Compact memory storage is provided by optional Memory Stick and
Memory Stick PRO, alternatively the Compact Flash (Type I/II) slot allows
storage on Compact Flash or Micro Drive media. Connectivity options include
Hi-Speed USB 2.0 and an enhanced version of the PictBridge interface provides a
way for the Cyber-shot R1 to connect directly to a compatible printer without
the need for a PC.
Time (Bulb) Exposure
In addition to the manual
shutter speed ranging from a flexible 30 seconds to 1/2000 second, the
Cyber-shot R1 has a Time Exposure function which enables the user to control
exposure time depending on their requirements - up to 3 minutes.
Rear
Synchro
With Rear Synchro mode, the flash fires just before the shutter
closes so that any light traces grow towards the back of a moving subject. This
function can be combined with the regular Slow Synchro mode (flash produces a
light trace in the direction of movement) for original and creative flash
photography.
Accurate Manual Focusing with one-push AF
When focusing
with Manual Focus mode, the one-push AF (PUSH AUTO) button on the left side of
the camera body can help focus the subject more easily and quickly. The focusing
area can be adjusted using the focus frame and multi-selector that appears on
the LCD screen, finally the focus can then be manually adjusted.
Improved
Electronic Viewfinder
The new EVF on the Cyber-shot R1 has an improved
optical system with three lenses, for a lower distortion and aberration and
better eye position. The image resolution is also higher than on previous
models. The camera seamlessly switches between the EVF and the LCD using an eye
sensor. Both can show zebra stripes as well as the newly designed information
display.
Monitoring Mode
The Cyber-shot R1 offers two different
monitoring modes, Framing and Preview. The Framing Mode reduces flicker under
fluorescent light, and the screen is brightened to view the subject more easily,
so is ideal for use indoors or in low light conditions. Preview Mode, on the
other hand, reflects the true camera settings such as the aperture and shutter
speed so that you can confirm the real depth of field before
shooting.
Linear Focus
Sony has developed an ultra-efficient Linear
Focus system for the Cyber-shot R1. This direct drive system uses a motor
without gears, resulting a super-fast response and extremely accurate
focus.
Silent Operation
As the Cyber-shot R1 does not have a mirror
and there is no shutter sound, you can discretely use the camera in situations
where you would hesitate with a traditional camera, such as at a concert, in a
museum, or on safari.
Advanced Accessory Shoe
This shoe supports
wireless connections, pre-flash and automatic adjustment for the best exposure.
It can also be used with conventional flash units for analogue cameras if they
have compatible connections. Of course, the Cyber-shot R1 also incorporates a
strong pop-up flash unit for convenient low-light shooting on the
go.
Supplied accessories
Sony also includes a variety of accessories
with the Cyber-shot R1. These include InfoLITHIUM Battery, AC adaptor, video
cable, USB Cable, shoulder belt, flower hood and Software.
Optional
accessories
A choice of optional accessories are available including: Tele
conversion lens (VCL-DEH17R), Wide conversion lens (VCL-DEH08R), ND filter
(VF-67ND), PL filter (VF-67CP), Soft Jacket Case (LCJ-RA) and Hard Case
(LCH-RA).
Key specifications:
Cyber-shot
R1
* Large Sized 10.3 effective Megapixel CMOS
Sensor
* 24-120mm (35mm) Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Lens
* High MTF Performance
* Free Angle
2.0" LCD
* 3 Colour Reproduction Modes
(Standard/Vivid/AdobeRGB)
* Advanced Gradation Control
System
* High Speed Burst 3.0fps
*
Dual Slot for Memory Stick and Compact Flash / Micro Drive
(typeI/II)
* Zebra Display
* One Push
AF
* Quick Operation (Preview mode - Start-up 0.68 sec,
Shutter Time Lag 0.29 sec, Shutter Release Lag 0.0075
sec)
* STAMINA Battery Life (approx 500*
shots)
* RGB Histogram
* Real Time
Preview
* Conversion Lens Compatible
(Optional)
* Advanced Accy Shoe
* Real
Imaging Processor
* Aperture/Shutter Priority and Manual
Exposure Mode
* RAW Data Recording
*
AF Illuminator
* USB 2.0 High Speed
Transfer
* Scene Selection Mode
*
PictBridge Compatible
* 15 Menu Languages (English, French,
German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Russian, Swedish, Norwegian,
Danish, Finnish, Polish, Hungarian, Czech)
* The measurement method is
based on the CIPA standard recording on Memory Stick (CIPA: Camera & Imaging
Products Association).
Subject to errors and technical
changes.
For further information, please contact:
Jean-Baptiste
Duprieu, Sony Europe
Tel: 0044 1932 817 349/ email: e-mail protected from
spam bots
Maria Heavey, Sony Europe
Tel: 0044 1932 817 383 / email:
e-mail protected from spam bots
In addition, for any queries about Sony
in your respective country, please contact your local Sony PR office.
About Sony:
Sony manufactures audio, video, communications and
information technology products for the global consumer and professional
markets. With its music, pictures, game and online businesses, Sony is uniquely
positioned to be one of the World's Leading Consumer Brands. Sony recorded
consolidated annual sales of EUR 53.43 billion (yen 7,160 billion) for the
fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 and it employs approximately 151,400 people
worldwide.
In Europe, Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of EUR
12.03 billion (yen 1,613 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005,
based on an average market exchange rate for the same period of yen 134 to the
EUR. Sony Europe, headquartered at the Sony Center am Potsdamer Platz in Berlin,
is responsible for the company's European electronics business and registered
consolidated sales of EUR 8.87 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31,
2005.
For more information on Sony Europe, please visit http://www.sony-europe.com
and http://www.sony-europe.com/presscenter
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Source : http://www.prweb.com/releases/2005/9/prweb282521.htm