By Leonard Goh
23/05/2008
URL: http://asia.cnet.com/reviews/digitalcameras/0,39001469,62041676,00.htm

What was originally a request for a review unit of the limited-edition Sony Alpha 350 turned out to be a new find. Sony had shipped to us instead a limited-edition Alpha 300--a scoop! We weren't even that lucky with lottery tickets.

If it wasn't for the model name on the front of the camera, we wouldn't have been able to differentiate the Alpha 300 from the Alpha 350. We bugged Sony for more information. Read on for the pictures and specs.

Photo credits: Leonard Goh

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The camera body

According to Sony, the limited-edition Alpha 300 is clad in a gold chassis, but we think it looks a little bit washed-out. Nevertheless, it still stands out from the conventional black color scheme of dSLRs.

Photo credits: Leonard Goh

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The color scheme

Even the color of the rubber seal has been changed to grey to complement the overall look. The flash button and switch to toggle between autofocus and manual focus have also been redesigned to grey.

Photo credits: Leonard Goh

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Button layout

The button layout is similar to the original Alpha 300. Perhaps it is a universal code because the blue color scheme for playback hasn't changed and it is a stark contrast from the hue of the camera's body.

Photo credits: Leonard Goh

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Serial number

Unlike the limited-edition Alpha 350 whose serial number (000 to 200) indicates its exclusitivity, the Alpha 300 we got didn't display such traits. Sony has commented that the limited-edition Alpha 300 will have the usual sequence used on its other cameras.

Photo credits: Leonard Goh

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The kit lens

The kit lens that we got has also gone through some exterior overhaul, boasting a little bit of bling with the gold bands.

Photo credits: Leonard Goh

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Pricing

This shooter is being produced in limited quantities and is priced at an affordable S$1,199. It will be available at authorized Sony dealers only in Singapore and Pan Asia from June.

Photo credits: Leonard Goh

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