Canon and Sony News for Mar 2021 (Page 2)

 Tuesday, March 16, 2021

Sony introducing their first f/1.2 FE lens, the Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM Lens, is exciting, but enabling that massive aperture opening requires large, heavy lens elements. How large and heavy is this lens, especially relative to the Canon RF 50mm F1.2 L USM Lens?

The Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM Lens vs. Canon RF 50mm F1.2 L USM Lens comparison shows these two lenses sharing a length spec and the Sony lens shaving about 3mm from the Canon lens's diameter. Basically, the size of the lenses is not differentiating. From a weight perspective, the Sony is 18% lighter. The 6 oz (172g) difference will be modestly noticeable.

The Sony lens has 11 diaphragm blades vs. 10. The odd blade count number will generate 22-point starbursts when used at narrow apertures vs. 10 points. Which is preferable is a matter of taste. All else equal, more blades result in rounder bokeh effects at narrow apertures.

The Canon lens features a focus limiter switch, enabling a shortened focus distance range for potentially less focus hunting in some scenarios. The Canon lens has a slightly higher maximum magnification capability, 0.19x vs. 0.17x.

The Canon is the more expensive lens — $300.00 more expensive as I write this. Will the higher price be justified? The optical performance comparison potentially holds that answer. From what we've seen from Sony GM lenses so far, the optical performance of the new FE 50 f/1.2 should be similar to that of the impressive Canon option.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/16/2021 11:04:42 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan

From Sony Electronics:

Sony Electronics Strengthens its Alpha System with the Introduction of its 60th E-Mount Lens, FE 50mm F1.2 G Master™

Sony’s newest lens delivers Superb Resolution, Exquisite Bokeh and High-performance Autofocus in a Compact and Lightweight Design

SAN DIEGO, CA – March 16, 2021 – Today, Sony Electronics Inc. unveils the newest addition to its G Master full-frame lens series – the FE 50mm F1.2 GM (model SEL50F12GM) – delivering excellent resolution and dramatic bokeh known to Sony’s G Master line, industry-leading AF (autofocus) capabilities and professional control and reliability in a compact and lightweight design. The lens’s maximum F1.2 aperture combines an impressive shallow depth of field for maximum creative expression with incredible light gathering capabilities, allowing for faster shutter speeds and lower ISO in low light settings, making it ideal for portraits, wedding photography, video and more.

“We’re excited to introduce our 60th E-mount lens – the FE 50mm F1.2 GM – which delivers a new level of expression and usability for still images and video as an F1.2 lens,” said Neal Manowitz, deputy president for Imaging Products and Solutions Americas at Sony Electronics. “We’re always listening to our customer to deliver the best imaging technology. The FE 50mm F1.2 GM, our first F1.2 lens for the a brand, was designed without compromise to meet the changing needs of today’s content creators.”

Excellent Resolution and Beautiful Bokeh

The FE 50mm F1.2 GM features the latest optics, including three XA (extreme aspherical) lens elements, that contribute to high resolution across the entire image and is maintained even when fully opened at F1.2. The new lens also ensures clear images in backlit scenes thanks to Sony’s Nano AR Coating II that effectively minimizes internal reflections so that flare and ghosting do not occur.

The FE 50mm F1.2 GM creates dramatic G Master bokeh at the maximum F1.2 aperture to provide dimensionality to every image. Using the newly developed 11-blade circular aperture unit and fine-tuned optical design with minimal spherical aberration, the lens can achieve smooth, deep bokeh in both the foreground and background.

High Performance AF and Tracking at F1.2

The lens can keep subjects in sharp focus even at an extremely shallow depth-of-field with fast, precise, quiet AF and tracking thanks to the four XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors which provide high thrust efficiency. When precise focusing is required, especially when shooting 4K video with human eye tracking, the FE 50mm F1.2 GM allows the user to focus on composition thanks to its excellent response with minimum delay and low vibration. In addition, the lens’s floating focus mechanism, controlled by its dedicated lens drive algorithm, achieves high resolution over the entire focus range, with a minimum focus distance of 1.32 feet.

Professional Control and Reliability in a Compact Form Factor

The FE 50mm F1.2 GM was designed with professional content creators in mind. With convenient controls and functions such as a Linear Response MF (Manual Focus), aperture ring with a click on/off switch, focus mode switch and two customizable focus hold buttons, the FE 50mm F1.2 GM combines easy operation with professional control. The FE 50mm F1.2 GM also features a dust and moisture resistant[i] design and a fluorine front element coating that protects the lens from fingerprints, dust, water, oil and other contaminants. Developed using Sony’s latest simulation technologies and the latest optical design, the lens comes in a surprisingly compact and lightweight form factor (3.5 in x 4.38 in, 27.5 oz.), providing high mobility and easy handling for a 50mm F1.2 lens.

Pricing and Availability

The new FE 50mm F1.2 GM will be available in May and will be sold for approximately $2,000.00 USD and $2,600.00 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

Orders

Order the Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM Lens at B&H starting at 10am ET, Wed Mar 17, 2021.

Watch the Video

More Info

Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM Lens

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Sony Announcements
Post Date: 3/16/2021 9:16:26 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Monday, March 15, 2021

Just posted: Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary Lens Review.

Welcome to the Sigma "I-series".

The Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA

Rent the Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary Lens from Lensrentals.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/15/2021 8:29:42 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Sunday, March 14, 2021

Resolution test results have been added to the Sony Alpha a1 review, a work in progress.

Here are some comparisons:

Sony a1 vs. Sony a7R IV

Sony a1 vs. Sony a7R III

Sony a1 vs. Sony a7 III (a9)

Sony a1 vs. Canon EOS R5

In these comparisons, more resolution results in higher image quality. There is nothing surprising about that. Also obvious, especially in the Canon comparison, is that the Sony Alpha cameras continue to produce strong moiré or false color.

Again, image quality commentary (and much more) for the Alpha a1 is available in the "Image Quality" section of the review.

Future Sony Lens Testing

Unless strong objections are voice, I will use the Sony Alpha a1 for future Sony Lens testing. While some visualization skills are required to compare against the existing lower resolution Sony Alpha a7R III test results, the difference seems relatively small from a lens comparison perspective.

If you are interested in purchasing my mint a7R III, let me know.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/14/2021 7:00:00 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Friday, March 12, 2021

Noise and dynamic range test results have been added to the Sony Alpha a1 review, a work in progress.

Commentary for these results is available in the "Image Quality" section of the review.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/12/2021 10:45:22 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Thursday, March 11, 2021

The Sony Alpha a1 provides compressed non-lossy RAW file format, but you may not want to use it — at least not immediately.

I stayed up late last night to capture nearly 300 Sony a1 noise and dynamic range test images. The non-lossy compressed RAW file format seemed a no-brainer to reduce the storage requirements (all of our test images are archived). After completing the tests, I attempted to load the images into Capture One, updated yesterday with support for the Alpha a1 affirmed. Troubling was that only a small number of RAW images and the JPG files would import.

I quickly determined that only the uncompressed and lossy compressed RAW images files were importing. As it turns out, Capture One is not yet compatible with the Sony a1 compressed RAW file format, and that's a show-stopper for my hours of work.

The next step was to attempt opening the files in Lightroom. After downloading the latest Adobe updates (Photoshop and Camera RAW updates were available), I attempted to import the test images into Lightroom. This time only the JPG images came in.

According to Adobe, the a1 is supported in Lightroom Classic version 10.2. The problem is, Lightroom 10.1.1 is the latest Lightroom Classic version available. Thus, at this moment, Lightroom does not support the a1 — unless you shoot in JPG format.

The good news is that yesterday's Adobe updates fully support the a1, including the compressed RAW file format, in Bridge and Photoshop. So, Lightroom should also support these files very soon. However, Lightroom is not the image processor we've used on the previous Sony cameras. So, for comparative reasons, Capture One is the required option.

I'm not patient enough to wait for another Capture One update, so tonight will be another late night of tedious camera testing — using the uncompressed RAW file format.

I should note that Sony's Imaging Edge supports the non-lossy compressed format.

The following table shows comparative RAW file sizes for a photo of a standard in-studio setup with a moderately-high amount of detail captured with the referenced camera.

Model / File Size in MB @ ISO:(MP)100200400800160032006400128002560051200102400204800
Canon EOS-1D X III(20.1)24.725.225.426.026.927.828.930.331.933.735.936.3
Canon EOS 5Ds R(50.6)65.266.467.669.873.077.281.988.4    
Canon EOS R5(45.0)51.653.153.655.657.760.163.066.470.575.179.5 
Canon EOS R5 CRAW(45.0)28.129.329.931.533.335.536.235.936.036.937.7 
Canon EOS R6(20.1)24.124.724.925.626.427.328.429.831.433.335.535.9
Canon EOS R6 CRAW(20.1)13.814.214.514.915.616.416.416.015.715.816.114.8
Sony a1 Uncomp(50.1)102.2102.2102.1102.1102.2102.5102.4102.6103.4103.4104.4
Sony a1 Non-Lossy(50.1)64.064.765.767.169.171.674.478.280.896.093.9 
Sony a1 Lossy(50.1)54.454.454.354.254.454.654.554.755.655.656.4 
Sony a9 II(24.2)47.247.247.147.147.147.147.147.147.247.247.247.3
Sony a9(24.2)47.247.247.147.147.147.147.147.147.247.247.247.3
Sony a7R IV(61.0)117.0117.0117.0117.0117.0117.0117.0117.082.082.082.0 
Sony a7R IV CRAW(61.0)59.159.159.159.159.159.159.159.159.159.159.1 
Sony a7R III(42.4)81.981.981.981.981.981.981.981.982.082.082.0 
Sony a7R II(42.4)82.882.882.882.882.882.882.882.882.882.882.8 
Sony a7 III(24.2)47.147.147.147.147.147.147.147.147.147.247.247.2
Sony a7C(24.2)47.147.147.147.147.147.147.147.147.147.247.247.2

RAW file sizes increase with: 1. Resolution 2. Bit Depth (more is better/larger) 3. Detail (noise adds detail, so high ISO file sizes increase) 4. Lack of compression. Memory and disk are cheap – buy more.

At ISO 100, the Sony non-lossy compressed RAW format results in a huge file size reduction. This file is 63% as large as the uncompressed result, and similar in size to Canon's standard non-lossy compressed 50MP EOS 5Ds R RAW files. At the highest (noisiest) ISO settings, the compression savings is significantly reduced.

The lossy compressed file size is, as expected, smaller than the non-lossy compressed file size. However, the difference is small enough at all except the highest few stops of ISO settings that there is little incentive to drop down to the lossy option.

What I can see so far is that the Sony Alpha a1 images look excellent, including from a dynamic range standpoint.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/11/2021 12:02:40 PM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Wednesday, March 10, 2021

When planning for the Sony a1 arrival, I wanted to know if an L-plate from a previously available camera would fit the a1. Ideally, an L-plate already in my kit. I find L-plates a necessity. New L-plates designs typically reach the market months after new camera models, and the arrival of a new camera model that uses existing plates can result in already available L-plates going out of stock.

My ProMediaGear PLX3x Universal L-Bracket was undoubtedly going to work as well on the a1 as it does on nearly all cameras. Still, the cameras remaining in my kit eventually all get custom Really Right Stuff L-Plates or Kirk L-Brackets.

That answer did not arrive before the a1 arrived, but I immediately and successfully installed the Really Right Stuff Ultralight Plate for Sony a7R IV, a7S III, and a9 II on the a1. I expect that similarly-designed L-plates will also fit nicely.

Really Right Stuff Ultralight Plate for Sony a7R IV, a7S III, and a9 II

Stating this optimistically, I'm considerably less certain that the RRS L-Plate Set's wrap-around design will fit the a1's slightly larger grip. The calipers say the a1's grip is a couple of mm larger, including the area appearing to be inside the L-plate set.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/10/2021 1:25:01 PM ET   Posted By: Bryan

Firmware Updates Bring New Features to Alpha 9 II and Alpha 7 III

Sony has updated firmware for the Alpha 7 III and Alpha 9 II cameras, bringing a range of customer-requested features.

Sony Alpha 9 II

Visit The Download Page

Benefits and Improvements

IMPORTANT: When you update to this version, the camera settings will be reinitialized. Because of this, we recommend that you save the current settings before updating. You can use the Save/Load Settings function to save the current settings to a memory card and write them back after the update.

NOTE: For details on how to save the settings and the items that can be saved, refer to Save/Load Settings in the Help Guide.

  • Adds the Crop function to allow you to crop a recorded still image
  • Adds the Forced File No. Reset option in the File/Folder Settings (still image) menu to allow you to reset the still image file number and create a new folder
  • Other improvements

    • Has improved the case where some functions are not registered correctly in the Function menu
    • Improves the overall stability of the camera

Sony Alpha 7 III

Visit The Download Page

Benefits and Improvements

IMPORTANT: When you update to this version, FTP transfer setting will be initialized. Please reconfigure after the update.

  • Adds new features of FTP transfer
    • Allows you to transfer still images during shoot and playback operations.
    • Adds the following FTP transfer functions:
      • Allows you to narrow down the transfer target, such as protected images or non-transferred images, and transfer the images together as a batch.
      • Allows you to transfer only the image being played back by pressing the custom key.
      • Allows you to transfer all images automatically while shooting.
      • Allows you to select the setting to transfer both RAW file and JPEG taken in RAW+JPEG format to an FTP server.
    • Update the destination folder configuration.
      • Allows you to register up to nine FTP servers. (Previous was up to 3)
      • Allows you to change the destination folder configuration on the FTP server:
        • Register the folder configuration same as your camera.
        • Save image data directly under the folder that you choose.
        • Register the media card slot number in the folder configuration.
      • Improved operability of FTP transfer function.
        • Allows you to set items under Server Setting by using the smartphone application Transfer & Tagging add-on.
  • Improves the overall stability of the camera.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Sony Firmware Updates
Post Date: 3/10/2021 11:50:19 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results along with specs, measurements, and standard product images have been added to the Sigma 24mm f/3.5 DG DN Contemporary Lens Review.

You are going to like these results. There are not many 24mm prime lenses this slow, but you can start your comparisons with these two options:

Sigma compared to Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens

Sigma compared to Tamron 24mm f/2.8 Di III OSD M1:2 Lens

The Sigma 24mm f/3.5 DG DN Contemporary Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/10/2021 7:34:58 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan

From Nikon:

Nikon is developing the Nikon Z 9 full-frame flagship mirrorless camera

*The appearance of the camera may differ from the photo shown above.

MELVILLE, NY – Nikon Inc. is pleased to announce the development of the first flagship model for which the Nikon Z mount has been adopted: The Nikon Z 9. The full-frame (Nikon FX-format) mirrorless camera is scheduled for release in 2021, and represents a significant leap in technology and performance.

The Z 9 brings together Nikon's groundbreaking technologies to deliver the best still and video performance in Nikon history, meeting the advanced needs of professionals in a wide range of genres. It utilizes a newly developed FX-format stacked CMOS sensor and new image-processing engine. In response to the growing needs of professionals, advanced enthusiasts and cinematographers, it includes support for 8K video recording as well as various other video specifications that fulfill diverse needs and workflows. The Z 9 embodies ultimate usability as a tool, offering users an unprecedented imaging experience from capture to workflow exceeding that of previous digital-SLR and mirrorless cameras.

Information regarding the release of this product will be announced at a later date.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Nikon Announcements
Post Date: 3/10/2021 7:11:10 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Tuesday, March 9, 2021

Just posted: Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG DN Art Lens Review.

I look forward to reviewing some lenses more than others. My anticipation for this one was high, and I was not disappointed.

The Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG DN Art Lens is in stock at B&H (save $270.00 by buying a 9+ rated used lens) | Adorama (kit with free tripod) | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG DN Art Lens from Lensrentals.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/9/2021 8:58:25 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan

From Sony:

Sony Electronics Announces the ECM-W2BT Wireless Microphone and the ECM-LV1 Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone

Provides High-quality and Stable Audio Recording for Vloggers, YouTubers and Video Creators

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SAN DIEGO, CA – March 9, 2021 – Sony Electronics Inc. today announced two new microphones with the launch of the ECM-W2BT Multi-nterface shoe compatible wireless microphone and ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone. Wireless high-quality audio recording with lower noise and stable connection is possible with the ECM-W2BT wireless microphone, especially when paired with the ECM-LV1 stereo lavalier microphone and one of Sony’s cameras[i] with digital compatibility. This combination offers the perfect solution to meet the needs of today’s vloggers, YouTubers and video creators who want to capture clear, reliable audio for a wide range of environments including street performance, product reviews, food reviews travel vlogs and more.

The ECM-W2BT wireless microphone enables low-noise digital sound recording by connecting the receiver to a camerai equipped with a digital audio interface compatible Multi Interface Shoe. The digital audio signal output from the receiver can be recorded directly on the camera body without wiring an external audio cable. Additionally, the ECM-W2BT has been completely redesigned for high sound quality using an advanced omni-directional mic capsule to capture clear sound recording from any direction. The ECM-W2BT also allows audio recording flexibility by increasing the stability of the wireless connection between microphone and receiver, even with obstacles or in crowded environments with additional wireless activity. In locations with good visibility, communication is possible at up to 200m, significantly increasing the flexibility of audio recording. And the newly adopted Qualcomm® aptX™ Low Latency[ii] codec provides both high-quality audio recording and low latency.

The ECM-W2BT wireless microphone also offers ultimate creative freedom thanks to its sound acquisition functions. Three sound pick up modes - MIC mode, MIX mode and a new RCVR mode - allows the user to record sound and ambient sound based on their desired preference. MIC mode will only pick up audio from the microphone transmitter so only the subject audio is captured. RCVR mode only picks up sound from the internal microphone at the receiver, so the user can record audio of themselves. MIX mode picks up both transmitter and receiver audio which is useful when audio from both the subject and the user is desired. The ECM-W2BT mic supports stereo audio input and an external 3.5mm stereo mini-jack to allow for stereo sound pickup, so it can be used in combination with the stereo-capable lavalier microphone such as the ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone, as an unobtrusive microphone that can easily attach to the subject’s clothing and record sound with increased realism. Since the receiver is equipped with 3.5mm audio output, the ECM-W2BT can be used without Multi Interface shoe model cameras.

For challenging recording environments, the ECM-W2BT wireless microphone includes an attenuator function. The user can select one of three attenuator levels depending on the sound source volume to record excessively loud sounds at a lower volume or amplify quieter sounds to record louder audio. The ECM-W2BT also includes a windscreen to reduce wind noise, which is especially helpful when recording outdoors. When longer operation is needed, the battery assist function via the power supply from the camera’s Multi Interface shoe enables the user to operate the receiver for up to 9 hours[iii]. For easy reference, the ECM-W2BT includes a LINK lamp to notify the user of the status of the communication between the microphone and the receiver and a POWER lamp to easily check the remaining battery charge. Besides, a connector protect holder for multi-interface foot cover is provided, which can be used to carry the receiver and microphone as one unit or can also be used as a microphone stand, for stable microphone positioning during interviews or other stationary uses.

The ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone also allows for high-quality sound pickup paired with a compact design for easy carrying and convenience while shooting. The ECM-LV1 includes a windscreen for additional noise reduction, and the 360-degree rotatable clip allows, for example, horizontal attachment to a necktie, or vertical attachment to a pocket, with the microphone attached at the same angle. The power of this mic is supplied from the mic connector.

The ECM-W2BT wireless microphone will be available in April 2021 for approximately $230.00 USD and $300.00 CAD. The ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone will also be available in April 2021 for approximately $30.00 USD and $40.00 CAD. These microphones will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America.

(US) – ECM-W2BT Wireless Microphone
(CA) – ECM-W2BT Wireless Microphone
(US) – ECM-LV1 Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone
(CA) – ECM-LV1 Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone

Notes

[i] Please refer to https://www.sony.net/dics/w2bt/ for a full list of compatible models. Analog audio is also supported, but use with digital audio is recommended. For use with a device that supports Digital Audio Interface, please set the DIGITAL/ANALOG switch on the ECM-W2BT wireless microphone to DIGITAL.

[ii] Qualcomm aptX is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. aptX is a trademark of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd., registered in the United States and other countries.

[iii] Depending on a camera, power is not supplied from the camera via the Multi Interface Shoe. For the compatible cameras, please refer to the link: https://www.sony.net/dics/w2bt/

The Sony ECM-W2BT Wireless Microphone and ECM-LV1 Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone will be available to order at B&H.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Sony Announcements
Post Date: 3/9/2021 9:26:35 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan

That is an attention-garnering headline. Unfortunately for photographers, the industrial sector will be the first to get these imaging sensors.

From Sony EU:

Sony to release large format CMOS image sensor with global shutter function and industry’s highest effective pixel count of 127.68 megapixels

Press release • Mar 09, 2021 10:30 CET

Sony's large format CMOS image sensor “IMX661” with industry’s highest effective pixel count of 127.68 megapixels. Left: colour model, right: black and white model.

Sony Corporation announced today the upcoming release of a large format 56.73mm diagonal CMOS image sensor “IMX661” for industrial equipment with a global shutter function and the industry’s highest*1 effective pixel count of 127.68 megapixels.*2

This product features an increased pixel count that yields an optical size nearly 10 times larger than the common 1.1-type image sensor corresponded to the C mount*3 for industrial equipment. It also features Sony’s original global shutter pixel technology “PregiusTM”, which enables capture of motion distortion-free images. Furthermore, the Sony’s original device configuration and interface technology employed enable high-speed image readout at a data rate nearly four times faster*4 than conventional products.

Sony expects that the new sensor, when used in industrial equipment cameras for a wide variety of applications, will help to solve a variety of complex challenges, thereby contributing to the development of industry.

*1: Among CMOS image sensors equipped with a global shutter. According to Sony research (as of announcement on March 9, 2021).

*2: Based on image sensor effective pixel specification method.

*3: The joining mechanism between lens and the camera body.

*4: Compared to Sony’s “IMX253” 1.1 type, 12.37 effective megapixels CMOS image sensor equipped with a global shutter function

Model name Sample shipment date (planned)*5

IMX661 3.6type (56.73 mm diagonal) 127.68-effective-megapixel CMOS image sensor April 2021

*5: The dates given for sample shipment date (planned) are for the color model. Black and white model samples will be available for shipment approximately one month later.

Needs for automation, labour-saving and other benefits of digital transformation continue to grow in recent years in various fields of industrial equipment. This has accelerated the adoption of cameras for a wide variety of applications, driving demand for CMOS image sensors with higher imaging performance.

The new product couples Sony’s Pregius technology with the 3.6-type (56.73mm diagonal) large optical size, delivering an increased pixel count and motion distortion-free imaging. The original device configuration, which employs a chip-on-wafer process, together with Sony’s original interface technology, enables high-speed readout nearly four times faster than conventional products*4 in full-pixel readout mode. This design delivers highly efficient imaging that captures a wide viewing angle with no motion distortion in a single imaging operation. It also improves recognition precision thanks to the high-resolution imaging and delivers a high level of processing performance. It can contribute to solutions for a variety of industrial equipment applications, for example, inspection processes for production of displays and electronic substrates, wide-area monitoring, and aerial photography, where its improved precision and quicker readout will help meet the need for a high level of productivity.

Main Features

The industry’s highest effective pixel count of 127.68 megapixels

This product features a large optical size of 3.6-type (56.73mm diagonal), nearly 10 times larger than the common 1.1-type image sensor corresponded to the C mount lens for industrial equipment with a pixel size of 3.45 µm, resulting in a massive pixel count of 127.68 megapixels, which is the industry’s highest for a CMOS image sensor equipped with a global shutter. It enables a wide viewing angle and high-resolution imaging by increased pixel count, and the motion distortion-free imaging demanded on cameras for industrial equipment, thereby improving imaging efficiency and recognition precision.

Image sensor optical size (imaging area) comparison*6, area ratio about 10 times (1.1-type comparison).

*6: When a lens with the same focal length is used

High-speed image readout

Generally, increased pixel count means increased signal processing volume, which causes issues such as a drop in frame rate and longer readout times. In order to realise high-speed readout, it is necessary to improve the processing functionality of the AD converter which converts the analog signal output from the pixel to digital signals, and at the same time, increase the speed of the output interface.

This product features Sony’s original device configuration employing a chip-on-wafer process where chips with certain functions are stacked on top of the pixel wafer, allowing for optimal positioning of the AD converter. This design improves AD converter processing functionality without increasing the size.

The new sensor also employs the Scalable Low Voltage Signaling with Embedded Clock (SLVS-ECTM)*7 high-speed interface standard developed by Sony, in order to make output interface faster. These two original technologies enable 127.68 megapixels,1 0bits,21.8fps, which is a high-speed output data rate nearly four times faster than conventional models*4. The dramatic increase in multi-pixel and readout speed greatly contribute to the improvement of productivity in industrial applications.

*7: A data transfer method that uses an embedded clock signal. This eliminates the need for skew adjustment between lanes and reduces the amount of wiring needed, making board design simpler and suitable for higher speeds.

Equipped with signal processing capabilities needed for a variety of industrial applications

The new product is equipped with a range of signal processing capabilities required for industrial equipment CMOS image sensors to meet diverse applications and needs. These include such as; trigger synchronisation for controlling imaging timing during high-speed inspections; Region of Interest (ROI), which reduces post signal processing load by only reading out the required regions; gradation compression, which reduces data volume while outputting required information; multi-exposure, which is capable of detecting the trajectory of moving objects; short exposure time for blur-free imaging of objects moving at high speeds; pixel binning readout, which can enhance sensitivity in low luminance situations.

Key Specifications

Model name IMX661 (colour, black and white)
Unit cell size 3.45 µm x 3.45 µm (H x V)
Effective pixels 13,400 x 9,528 (H x V), 127.68 megapixels
Image size Diagonal 56.73 mm (3.6-type)
Active area 46.2 mm x 32.9 mm (H x V)
Package Ceramic LGA
Micro lens EPD –100mm (CRA 15.8 degrees)
Power supply Analog: 3.3V
Digital: 1.2V Interface: 1.8V
Output 4.7Gbps/lane SLVS-EC 16/8/4 lane
891Mbps/lane SLVS 16 lane
Frame rate
14 bit: 12.9 fps
12 bit: 19.6 fps
10 bit: 21.8 fps
Main functions Global shutter, trigger synchronisation, ROI, gradation compression, multi-exposure, short exposure, pixel binning readout
Notes: Pregius and SLVS-EC are trademarks of Sony Corporation.

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Posted to: Canon News, Sony News   Category: Sony Announcements
Post Date: 3/9/2021 8:06:00 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Monday, March 8, 2021

Just posted: Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens Review.

Save $50.00 instantly: the Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens is in stock and on sale at Adorama and Amazon USA. B&H is taking orders.

Rent the Sony FE 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens from Lensrentals.

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/8/2021 9:23:42 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
 Sunday, March 7, 2021

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results along with specs, measurements, and standard product images have been added to the Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary Lens page.

Comparing the Sigma Lens to the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens is a good start.

Here is the Sigma Lens compared to the Tamron 35mm f/1.8 Di VC USD Lens.

Here is the Sigma Lens compared to the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 IS STM Macro Lens. Use your visualization skills to discern between the differing camera resolutions.

And, here is the Sigma Lens compared to the Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM Lens.

The Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA

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Posted to: Sony News   Category: Camera Gear Review News
Post Date: 3/7/2021 7:19:02 AM ET   Posted By: Bryan
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