Sporting its latest 8-megapixel RGBE Super HAD CCD sensor, this Cyber-shot has impressive written all over it.To create the latest model in the Cyber Shot F series, Sony combined its new 8-megapixel RGBE Super HAD CCD sensor, a 7X Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* zoom lens, and a feature set fit for semipros. The F828's design improves on that of last year's F717 but retains the vertically swivelling lens.
Upside: The F828 offers the highest resolution available in a sub-US$5,000 (~AU$7,800) camera, a high-quality F2.0-to-F2.8 lens with a 28mm (35mm equivalent) wide angle, and--a first for Sony--RAW file capture. Support for Memory Stick, CompactFlash, and Microdrive media; USB 2.0 connectivity; seven-frame burst shooting; and manual zoom and focus rings enhance the digicam's appeal.
Downside: This model uses an electronic viewfinder instead of an optical one, which some photographers prefer. Sony has no plans to make lens converters for the camera, and the warranty won't cover damage caused by third-party attachments. The F828 will ship with firmware that supports the sRGB colour space only--no Adobe RGB yet.
Outlook: While previous F-series models were high-end consumer digicams, the F828 represents Sony's first foray into the realm of true semipro cameras. We're eager to discover whether the RGBE system fulfils its promise of improved colour accuracy and tonal range. Local pricing and release dates were not available at the time of going to press, but it's expected to launch in the US in November for around US$1,199 (~AU$1850).
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