Sony unveils three entry-level dSLRs 
The rumors are true after all. Sony today lifted the wraps off three dSLRs which were leaked on the Web last week. The Alpha DSLR-A230, A330 and A380 are targeted at beginners and sport new features which enhance their usability and aesthetics.
At first glance, these new Alpha cameras look different from other dSLRs on the market. The handgrip appears shallower (which reminds us of the Olympus E-450) and the shutter button and command dial have been repositioned to give the shooters a new, different look.
The graphic user interface (GUI) is redesigned to help users navigate menus and function settings, according to Sony. The new GUI will rely more on icons to aid amateurs understand settings such as shutter speed and aperture, and how they work in tandem to achieve desirable photographic results.
To make the camera easier to use, the number of physical controls have been reduced from 19 (on most previous Sony dSLRs) to 13. This will make the snapper look less daunting to operate for first-time users.
Taking a leaf out of the earlier DSLR-A350 model's book, the A330 and A380 have 2.7-inch tilting LCDs. All three new dSLRs today unveiled have the new Auto Brightness control which detects ambient light and automatically adjust the brightness of the screen. The new shooters also have onboard image stabilizer (IS). At 450g, the A230 is the lightest in its class with such a function.
Older Sony dSLRs use a combination of Memory Stick PRO Duo and CompactFlash cards. However, these new cameras will employ a combination of Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD/SDHC memory cards. This will enable current point-and-shoot owners to continue using their SD format media if they choose the new Sony dSLRs.
That said, the cameras may face tough competition from Canon and Nikon which recently announced their EOS 500D and D5000, respectively. Unlike its rivals, the Sony dSLRs don't have video-recording capabilities and this may prove to be a deal-breaker for consumers. We also found it puzzling that Sony chose to announce three entry-level dSLRs with pretty much similar features at the same time. Most camera makers typically release only one entry-level dSLR for each new launch. We are currently awaiting Sony's response on its latest dSLR strategy and will report once we get more information.
Editors' note:
Update: Sony told CNET Asia that by announcing three entry-level dSLRs at once, it can respond to the increasing and diversified needs of consumers. The A380 has higher resolution and a tiltable LCD display which can appeal to savvy shutterbugs, while beginners can start with the A230 which has just the basic functions.
Pricing for the A230, A330 and A380 were not available at press time, although Sony mentioned that these snappers will be available in Asia come June.
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