SONY NEX-5K Review

Sony's NEX-5 is the first of new hybrid camera model from Sony, offering a large-size APS HD CMOS sensor capable of 1080i HD movie capture and high quality images to the heady heights of ISO 12,800.

HD movie 1080i can be captured at 60fps in addition to high quality stills from ISO 200 through to a whopping ISO 12,800.

When it comes to image quality, the NEX-5 really stands apart from competitor models. In terms of image noise, ISO 200-800 are exceptionally clean, with a slight colour noise presence creeping in progressively thereafter but having no profoundly negative impact as far as ISO 3200. ISO 6400-12,800 show more considerable signs of detail loss due to noise reduction, yet are both of a good enough quality to use, no qualms about it.








Specification:

* 14.2-megapixel effective recording
* APS-C size HD CMOS image sensor (23.4 X 15.6 mm) for rich tonal gradation and true-to-life color
* includes 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (35mm equivalent focal length: 27-82.5mm)
* tilting 3" LCD screen with live view for composing shots in real-time and previewing the effects of exposure settings
* high-def movie mode with sound (up to 1080i @ 60 frames per second)
* BIONZ® image processor for high-resolution, low-noise photos
* lightweight, durable Magnesium alloy body
* Anti-Dust Technology keeps image sensor clean for spotless photos
* 6-image layering: can take six pictures in under a second, then combine the best attributes of each into one photo to reduce blur and ensure proper exposure
* 25-area autofocus system for rapid, precise autofocusing
* "Background Defocus" control lets you easily blur the background
* supplied detachable, aimable flash gives you greater control over flash angle and intensity
* face detection adjusts focus, exposure, and white balance for great-looking portraits
* Smile Shutter™ technology snaps a picture when it detects a smile
* Sweep Panorama mode
* 3D Panorama mode: sweep across the panorama, and the camera captures "right-eye" and "left-eye" versions of the image. 3D TV and 3D glasses required to view images in 3D
* on-screen help guide and shooting tips
* warranty: 1 year

Compatible Lenses:

* compatible with Sony E-mount lenses
* compatible with Sony Alpha SLR lenses when used with LA-EA1 lens adapter

Exposure Modes and Controls:

* continuous shooting mode: 2.3 frames per second (up to 7 frames per second in Speed Priority mode)
* shutter speed range: 30-1/4,000 seconds, bulb
* sensitivity or ISO (film speed equivalent) range: 200-12,800
* program auto, shutter-priority, aperture-priority, manual, and fully automatic exposure modes
* flash bracketing: up to 3 frames
* 8 preset scene modes for accurately exposed images in many different shooting environments
* flash sync at 1/160 second

File Formats and Storage:

* image storage modes: JPEG (Fine and Standard), RAW, and RAW+JPEG
* still image aspect ratio options: 3:2, 16:9
* top JPEG options (pixels): 4592 X 3056 (3:2); 4592 X 2576 (16:9)
* AVCHD movie files up to 1920 x 1080 at 60 frames per second with stereo sound; MP4 movie files up to 1440 x 1080 resolution at 30 frames per second with mono sound
* accepts optional SD™, high capacity SDHC™, MultiMediaCard, and Memory Stick PRO Duo memory cards

Connections and Dimensions:

* high-speed USB interface
* mini HDMI output (cable not included)
* IR sensor: allows shutter to be remotely activated with optional RMT-DSLR1 wireless remote
* 4-3/8"W x 2-3/8"H x 1-9/16"D (without lens)
* weight (without battery or media): 8.1 oz.
* supplied lens weight: 6.9 oz.

Supplied Accessories:

* 18-55mm Sony lens
* detachable flash and flash case
* rechargeable NP-FW50 lithium ion battery
* battery charger/AC adapter
* neck strap
* USB cable
* software CD-ROM