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The Sony Cybershot DSC-H5 is a 7 megapixel (CCD) camera with a large 12x Optical Zoom lens (with steady shot).
It will featues a 3.0 inch LCD, USB 2.0, 32MB of internal memory and ISO at up to 1000.
The Sony Cybershot DSC-H5 will be in stores by May and will have a retail price of $500.
Compare prices on the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-H5 and get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSC-H5 at Amazon
Sony is expanding its high-zoom digital still camera line with two new Cyber-shot models that are sure to zero in on the subjects you most desire.
Clad in black, the new DSC-H5 model has a 7.2-megapixel CCD imager and extra-large, three-inch LCD screen. It also shimmers in silver along with the stage-worthy DSC-H2 model, which has a six-megapixel imager and two-inch LCD. Both cameras flaunt Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 12x optical zoom lenses and focal length ranges of 36 to 432 millimeters (35 mm equivalence).
�High-zoom cameras are one of the fastest-growing segments in the industry,� said James Neal, director of digital imaging products at Sony Electronics. �They are powerful enough to get those hard-to-see distant shots, and have the easy-to-use functionality of point-and-shoot cameras.
Ready, Steady, Shoot
Even without the steadiest of hands (or subjects), the cameras� anti-blur technologies ensure challenging shots can be executed with ease.
These new models incorporate Sony�s Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization to help reduce image blur caused by hand movement. Because these cameras feature high-light sensitivity settings up to IS0 1000, fast-moving cars and people along the boulevard can also be captured with considerably less blur and graininess. Sony�s Clear RAW� noise reduction technology minimizes picture noise, making it easier to shoot at faster shutter speeds.
These anti-blur technologies are an advantage when shooting in low-light conditions, such as outdoor shots in the evening or inside dark museums. These shots can be taken without a flash, resulting in naturally-exposed images that truly capture the drama and atmosphere of the moment. And, you can get as close as you want with the cameras� significant macro mode of three-quarters of an inch.
You Are Big! The Cameras Got Smaller � And Smarter
The new H-series cameras are substantial, without feeling bulky, and feature a comfortable grip with controls easily accessible by thumb.
You can count on detailed image previews using the H5 model�s three-inch, high-resolution LCD screen, with a pixel count of 230K and Sony�s Clear Photo LCD Plus� technology. The LCD features high-quality color reproduction and displays pictures with vivid clarity.
Sony�s ultra-fast Real Imaging Processor� circuitry increases both models� battery efficiency for quicker start-up, faster shot-to-shot times, higher-quality movie capture, and longer battery life. The H5 camera delivers up to 340 shots on a single charge, while the H2 model offers 400 shots per charge.
The new cameras include auto-exposure and multi-point, auto-focus features along with pre-set scene modes customized for specific shooting conditions, all working silently in the background while you concentrate on the �center-stage� action. When greater creative control is needed, aperture/shutter priority and manual exposure modes are available options.
Both models have 32MB of internal memory, which can be expanded with an optional Memory Stick Duo� media card or Memory Stick PRO Duo� card, now available in capacities up to four gigabytes.
My Autograph, Please
Make the most of your close-ups by producing high-quality prints. Simply connect these models to a Sony DPP-FP50 digital photo printer and produce lab-quality photos at home. You can even create postcards for all of your budding fans with the printer�s supplied software.
With Sony�s ImageStation online photo service, you can expand your options to print tens or even hundreds of pictures, create online photo and video albums, or make customized gifts such as photo books and calendars.
The Cyber-shot DSC-H5 camera will be available in May for about $500 and the DSC-H2 model ships in April for about $400.
Bundled accessories include rechargeable AA NiMH batteries, charger, lens hood with adaptor and lens cap with strap, and USB and AV output cables. Options include a wide conversion lens (VCL-DH0758) for about $150, a tele-end conversion lens (VCL-DH1758) for about $150, a close-up lens (VCL-M3358) for about $70, a jacket case (LCJ-HC) for about $50, and a soft carrying case (LCS-HA) for about $40.
Both models can be purchased direct at Sonystyle.com, Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), and authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin today at www.sony.com/h5 and www.sony.com/h2.
Digital Camera Info has posted a first impression review of the Sony Cyber-shot H2 digital camera where they write - 'The new Sony Cyber-shot H-series cameras are worthy successors to the ultra zoom H1. The original camera was a great concept but didn�t have the star power. The H5 just might have it. The new Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H5 has 7.2 megapixels, a huge LCD screen with great 230,000-pixel resolution and an optically image stabilized Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 12x zoom lens. The construction is lightweight and portable and still fairly sturdy. It has manual functionality and a few scene modes to boot. The new cameras have a wide ISO range from 80-1000, making low light photography possible without the use of the flash. The Sony H5 will retail for $499 when it becomes available in May.'
CNET reviews the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-H5 where they write - 'Sony's Cyber Shot DSC-H5 sits at the top of the company's current crop of megazoom cameras. Fittingly, it has all the specs you'd expect in a camera of its class, including a large, image-stabilized 12X optical zoom lens, a 3-inch LCD screen, a 7.2-megapixel CCD sensor, and a full set of manual controls. Step-up snapshooters, soccer moms, and even some advanced amateurs will find that the Cyber Shot DSC-H5 has a lot to offer. The huge zoom range is great for occasions when you want versatility but don't want to lug around a DSLR and a ton of lenses. Plus, the wide maximum aperture of f/2.8, along with the image stabilization, helps in low light. Unfortunately, this camera's higher ISOs yielded so much noise that picky low-light shooters will want to look elsewhere.'
DCRP reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H5 and writes - 'The DSC-H5 is a fairly large ultra zoom camera that comes in silver or black. The camera is well put together, and the "double door" over the memory card / battery compartment is handy. The H5 has a 12X optical zoom Carl Zeiss lens that reaches from 36 to 432 mm. If that's not enough, you can purchase wide-angle, telephoto, and close-up conversion lenses -- and Sony includes the needed adapter with the camera. The only expandability related features that are missing are a hot shoe and support for an underwater case. The DSC-H5 has the same Super SteadyShot image stabilization system that proved itself on the original DSC-H1, and it works well here too. Keeping with the "big" theme, Sony managed to cram a 3-inch LCD on the back of the H5 -- larger than anything in its class, save for the Samsung Pro815. The screen is big, bright, and sharp -- and it's viewable in low light (as is the electronic viewfinder).'
Steves Digicams reviews the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-H5 and writes - 'If you're looking for a light-weight, stylish, moderately-priced digicam that is versatile enough to handle most family events while getting you close to sports action or wildlife, the SONY Cyber-shot H5 should be high on your list. You should also consider the Canon PowerShot S3 IS. Both cameras carry similar specifications and are capable of delivering high-quality images. The S3 IS advantages include better Continuous AF tracking of moving subjects, industry-leading movie mode, articulating LCD monitor, faster shutter speeds and greater continuous shooting speed and buffer depth. On the other hand, the H5 provides greater indoor flash range and AF-assist performance, a larger LCD monitor, lower image noise at high ISO settings, ISO 1000, Smart Digital Zoom, Multi Burst mode and an extra 1-megapixel of resolution.'
DPReview has a review of the Sony DSC-H5 and writes, "The good news is that everything we liked about the H1 and the H2 is still here; handling is excellent, it's very fast and responsive and the results - even shooting in full auto mode with default settings - excellent. There are few cameras I can wholeheartedly recommend to both novice 'snappers' and experienced photographers, but the H5, like the H2, is that rarest of beasts; a 'compact' camera with handling and control close to a DSLR, yet one that - even in inexperienced hands - can be left in 'idiot-proof' mode and trusted to produce the goods time and time again. Above all, the H5 is fun and easy to use, which means you will find yourself taking a lot more pictures, which has to be a good thing. ... The choice when looking at this class of camera is a difficult one, and one that more often than not comes down to handling, personal preference (in terms of the actual output) and how important certain specific features (in this case the screen, basically) are to you. The H2 represents far better value for money than the H5, which is why I still consider it to be the pick of the bunch, but the H5 still offers an awful lot of 'bang for your buck'. Whilst it would be unfair to penalise the H5 simply because it doesn't offer a lot more than the H2 in terms of real benefits, I would point out that whereas the $399 H2 was an easy choice for a Highly Recommended, the H5, like the Canon S3 IS, was a much closer call."
From DCViews. On the DSC-H5's image quality: "In most situations exposure is spot on, but sometimes the camera tends to underexpose to keep detail in the highlights. A simple levels adjustment solves this 'problem'. In Normal color mode colors are very accurate and natural, even at ISO 400. With 7 Mp and a Carl Zeiss lens the camera captures a lot of detail. The in-camera sharpening is moderate but delivers crisp pictures. The Super Steady Shot does a good job for handheld shots. In spite of the noise reduction enough detail is kept at ISO 400."
Imaging-Resource has a review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H5 and writes, "The high sensitivity of ISO 1,000 brings with it plenty of noise, but also delivers shots you wouldn't otherwise get. With image stabilization and a good noise filter in your editing software, you won't mind. The double digital zoom option was welcome as well. Smart Zoom is restricted by the image size you've selected (unavailable at the largest sizes), so it's nice to have Precision Zoom available as an option on the Sony DSC-H5. And being able to select the Flash sync front or rear curtain was a delightful surprise, too. But the real thrill of a long zoom is its extended optical zoom. The Sony DSC-H5 brought back some crisp, colorful images that are beyond the reach of many other digicams. No complaints about that!"
DP Expert reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-H5 and writes - 'The Sony Cybershot DSC-H5 is a versatile camera providing all the controls found on a single lens reflex but without the benefit of a true optical viewfinder. It can be used as a point and shoot camera but it also has a full set of creative controls. It uses Sony’s unique Memory Stick and AA batteries. It comes with a pair of rechargeables and a charger.'
NeoCamera reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-H5 and concludes, "With so many features packed in a light camera body, the Sony Cybershot DSC-H5 has tremendous consumer appeal. Its 7 megapixels sensor, stabilized 12X optical zoom, 3" LCD and highly saturated colors are designed to impress people looking for a more-is-better type of camera. The H5 has enough resolution for common print sizes and even midsize ones (10"x13") under ideal conditions. Its set of manual controls and long zoom ensure versatility. Image quality is good but far from perfect. The most problematic areas are significant edge softness and high chromatic aberrations. Colors can be good -although overly saturated- with the right choice of white-balance. For this reason, the H5 requires more interaction than most point-and-shoot cameras. Then again, we do not expect people to buy this as a point-and-shoot. Noise levels are below average. Exposure and focus are accurate. Another problem area is slow auto focus near the telephoto end of the zoom. The Sony Cybershot DSC-H5 can be recommended for most types of photography except action and architecture."
PCMag has a review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H5 and writes, " In my test shots, I didn't see much noise in any of the shots, even those taken at low ISOs. I really liked the color saturation in these images. There was a bit of purple fringing, but nothing too noticeable. And the flash shot produced a pretty good exposure, but it did blow out some highlights. The H5's resolution averaged 1725 lines, which is excellent for a 7.2 MP camera. But performance could be better: Although the 3.4-second recycle time and 3.4-second bootup time are respectable, the noticeable shutter lag was disappointing. Overall, the lens was quite good, displaying just a bit of barrel distortion and no pin cushion distortion."
PopPhoto has a review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H5 and writes, "If missing some shots doesn't bother you, and you want a reasonably priced camera that gives you high quality images for a consumer grade camera, the H5 just may be your choice. But it simply drove me crazy though that such a nicely designed camera would have issues like this. The camera is a real joy to hold and all of the add-ons allow users to have the most of the capabilities of higher end DSLR systems without the huge investment. But the bottom line is: to keep pressing the shutter and have absolutely nothing happen at the decisive moment is a lesson in total aggravation and if I were in the market for this type of camera, this alone would cause me to look elsewhere."
Compare prices on the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-H5 and get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSC-H5 at Amazon
Posted by Darren in our Sony category on February 27, 2006