Anyone want a compact version of the A7RV?
Well here it is! Years ago we were promised that mirrorless cameras would give us much smaller, powerful cameras and the new Alpha 7CR could be seen as the embodiment of that concept. The irony that many of our new lenses have become larger is something we’ll leave to another article.
Packing in the same 61MP sensor, AI-processing unit and BIONZ processors found in the A7R has got to be a good thing. The image quality and focus tracking abilities are incredible if not astounding. Not only can the camera focus track the usual humans, animals and birds – but now also insects, aircraft and vehicles.
Many of the things on the ‘want list’ from the original A7C body have been addressed and the new improvements include a front control dial, better viewfinder optics and a better, deeper grip. On the topic of grips, if you do find the camera a bit too compact, you can add the Removable Grip Extension for extra comfort – especially if you are using some of those aforementioned larger lenses.
Key features & specs:
• 61MP Backside illuminated CMOS senor
• BIONZ XR Image Processor
• 8fps continuous shooting
• Choice of RAW, JPG or HEIF output
• 4K video XAVC HS 4:2:2 10-Bit
• 240MO Pixel shift multi image shooting
• ISO 50-102,400
• 7 Stops of in-body image stabilisation
• Single Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• 2.36m-dot OLED electronic viewfinder
• 3” 1.03m-Dot Vari-Angle LCD Touchscreen
• Weight 515g with battery
• Dimensions 124x71x63mm
So who is this for? If you are already an Alpha 1 or A7RV shooter, this could be an all-day carry /around town camera or great backup / second camera body. Or as it is such a powerful camera, it could be your main camera (albeit with only one card slot). Just make sure you get the grip.
Interestingly, the current US price of the A7RV is US$3,898 (AU$6,000) while the A7CR is US$2,999 meaning that saving close to AU$1,400 would price it as the perfect backup camera. (save $1,400)
But in Australia, the current price of the A7RV is AU$4,500 and the new A7CR when released in late September will be AU$4,999. ($500 more expensive)
You can read more at the Sony website.
