Sony has announced its long-awaited second DSLR, the Alpha A700.

Sony has announced its long-awaited second DSLR, the Alpha A700.

The camera has been aimed at ?photo-enthusiasts and serious photo hobbyists? and features a 12.2MP CMOS sensor, alongside a host of technologies.

A dust- and moisture-resistant magnesium alloy body encases a BIONZ imaging processor, which is ?optimized to process data-rich picture information at high speeds?. Super SteadyShot Inside image stablisation also features, and is compatible with most Minolta Maxxum lenses as well as Sony?s own range.

Sony’s Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) is said to allow users to choose the desired level of detail recovered in shadow areas, while a 5fps JPEG burst mode allows shooting up until the card?s capacity is filled. Raw shooting, meanwhile, allows a continuous shot rate of up to 18 frames.

A 3in LCD screen sits at the rear of the unit, and features an impressive 921k resolution, while the option of Memory Stick Duo, Compact Flash I/II and UDMA media storage has been offered.

Two new lenses have also been introduced ? one of which is to be sold as the standard kit lens alongside the camera. The DT 16-105mm f/3.5?5.6 kit lens offers a 35mm equivalent zoom range of 24-157.5mm and boasts internal focusing and a lightweight, compact design. A second lens ? the DT 18?250 mm f/3.5?6.3 ? will offer telephoto zoom capabilities, while a third 70-300mm lens is planned for release in 2008.

UK RRP?s and release dates are yet to be confirmed though the camera will see its US release from October.

For more information visit www.sonystyle.com.