I've had mine for about 18 months now no complaints.

Photodo review click here

Some user reviews from a Sony/Minolta forumclick here

Sony have badged it and upped the price (for the name) for the Alpha series.

Some people don't like the plastic body, but modern plastic bodies are probably almost as good as metal ones, better in some conditions, and a damned sight lighter.

Why not take your camera down to Jessops or other local dealer and ask if you can take a few shots with their demo lens, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.