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The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 is a 10.3 megapixel digital camera with and ultra-wide Carl Zeiss Vario Sonner T* zoom lens (5x optical Zoom - 24mm - 120mm). The image sensor is of the same size as larger professional cameras (2/3“ CCD) and the LCD is 2 inches - and strangely positioned as a swing out display from the top of the camera.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1's sensor allows for 'live preview' and the camera shoots at up to three frames per second with a shutter release of just 7.5 milliseconds.
Look for the DSC-R1 in shops in mid November for around $1000 USD.
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
SONY ESTABLISHES A NEW CLASS OF HIGH-END DIGITAL CAMERA
Sony intends to create a new benchmark in digital photography with the introduction of its high-end Cyber-shot DSC-R1 camera.
The Cyber-shot R1 camera is the world’s first integrated lens digital still camera to combine a professional-grade, 10.3-megapixel image sensor and the flexibility of live preview while shooting. With its ultra-wide Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* zoom lens (24mm – 120mm) and free-angle, two-inch LCD, the Cyber-shot R1 brings professional level imaging performance to mainstream consumers.
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1”The R1 represents a breakthrough in digital camera technology and construction,“ said James Neal, director for digital imaging products at Sony Electronics. ”You can grab this camera and go, confident that you will be prepared for a wide range of shooting situations. Its many convenience features and exceptional performance can not easily be matched with a typical consumer-level digital SLR.“
A Class of Its Own
Photo enthusiasts know that image sensor size is one of the most important influences on picture quality. Professional-grade image sensors, sometimes referred to as advanced photo system (APS) or APS-class, are many times the size of compact sensors used in point-and-shoot cameras; large sensors deliver extraordinary resolution, high sensitivity to light, and lower image noise or graininess for exceptional pictures. At 10.3 megapixels, the R1’s sensor offers one of the highest resolutions available in the APS class.
Unlike digital SLRs, the Cyber-shot R1 unit’s sensor allows for a “live” preview thanks to Sony Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology. Until now, the extraordinary power consumption of these large sensors has limited their operation to image capture only – unable to support the benefit of a live preview. Sony’s distinctive design is employed to reduce power consumption, as well as increase image processing speeds.
The camera’s electronic viewfinder or two-inch LCD lets you evaluate scene conditions, such as exposure and how color is rendered before taking a shot. Because the R1 camera can preview electronically, using the image sensor itself in real-time, framing is always 100% accurate.
Built Digital from the Ground Up
The R1’s integrated Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens was carefully crafted to take full advantage of the resolution, clarity and color performance of its APS-class CMOS image sensor. Because of the sensor’s live preview capability, there is no need for the camera to have a traditional “mirror and prism” construction common to digital SLRs. This allows a lens-to-sensor distance of as little as 2 mm, optimizing image quality and color accuracy.
Another benefit of this structure is the ability to incorporate an extraordinary wide field of view and zoom range. The 24 mm wide end of the lens is particularly suited for architectural photography, landscapes and large-group portraits, while the 120 mm telephoto end is perfect for filling the frame with distant subjects. This is a range not easily matched by any other lens for use with cameras using large-scale image sensors.
Furthermore, no mirror and prism construction means that the R1 is a quiet camera, perfect for shooting at a tennis match or in nature without disturbing wildlife.
Get the Shot without the Backache
The Cyber-shot R1 sports a two-inch, LCD screen that folds flat and swivels so you can shoot from nearly any position. This flexibility allows you to get the shots that other cameras miss. For example, you can hold the camera low – down to the ground – for eye-level view shots of kids and pets without having to bend yourself into a pretzel or crawling on the ground.
The Power of Optimal Image Processing
A 10.3-megapixel camera needs a fast processor. Sony harnessed the power of it Real Imaging Processor™ LSI to achieve fast response times, low power consumption and clear images.
The new camera features a one-second shot-to-shot time, three frame-per-second burst shooting, and a shutter release time of only 7.5 milliseconds. Because it consumes 70 percent less power than Sony’s previous processing circuitry, the camera has a battery life of up to 500 shots per charge, which can vary according to use and camera settings.
For enhanced versatility, Cyber-shot R1 offers three different modes of color reproduction: Adobe RGB used for professional graphics and offset color printing, Standard sRGB for most computer-based uses, and Vivid sRGB for more intense primary colors.
The camera’s user selectable Advanced Gradation Control System (AGCS) optimizes image contrast, in order to avoid “blown out” highlights in high-contrast scenes and “crushed” blacks in low-contrast ones. AGCS evaluates the distribution of brightness and then automatically applies the appropriate gamma curve to achieve better pictures.
Users will also enjoy the added convenience of storing images onto Memory Stick PRO™ media, as well as CompactFlash Type I and Type II media or Microdrive media. The camera supports both JPEG and RAW formats, which can then be manipulated on a PC using the supplied Sony Image Data Converter SR software.
The Cyber-shot R1 camera will be available in mid-November for about $1,000 online at SonyStyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), and at select authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin online today at http://www.sony.com/r1.
The new camera is supplied with a NP-FM50 InfoLithium battery, an AC-L15 adaptor, a USB and video cables, shoulder strap, and CD-ROM software with PicturePackage and Image Data Converter SR for RAW. There are a variety of optional accessories (sold separately), including wide angle and telephoto conversion lenses, adaptors, filters, tripods, flashes, carry cases, a neck strap and a battery.
CNET Reviews has a review of the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1 and writes - 'Sony's Cyber Shot DSC-R1 represents an intriguing bridge between the world of user-friendly all-in-one prosumer cameras and the more complicated world of high-quality digital SLRs. It has an easily rotated LCD screen, plenty of manual bells and whistles, a sharp and versatile Carl Zeiss lens, and a 10-megapixel CMOS sensor nearly as large as those found in typical dSLRs.'
Imaging Resource reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 Digital Camera and recommends - 'The Sony DSC-R1 is a really compelling entry in the high-end "enthusiast" category. It offers a nearly unique focal length range, with truly exceptional optical quality, attractive color rendering, and very appealing tonality in its images. - Bottom line, we just liked looking at the R1's images. We found some of its ergonomics decidedly awkward, and both timing performance and high-ISO noise levels aren't up to the best of the digital SLRs currently on the market. On the other hand though, achieving the optical performance of the R1's lens with a conventional removable-lens SLR would cost literally thousands of dollars in high-end glass.'
Luminous Landscape reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1and writes - 'I am very ambivalent about the Sony R1. With its large and high resolution sensor, excellent lens, and first rate build quality for under US $1,000 it offers photographers a combination of features and abilities that in a DSLR would cost 2-3X as much to implement.
But, it still is a digicam – or FLD, and therefore lacks some of the features that DSLR users take for granted, such as fast frame rates and snappy autofocus. In exchange the R1 offers a waist level finder, a real-time histogram, and totally silent operation – features that no DSLR can provide.'
DCRP reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 and writes - 'The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 finds itself in a difficult position: not only is it more expensive than most fixed-lens cameras, but it also costs more than most digital SLR kits. While the R1 has the best photo quality of any fixed-lens camera (by far), the tough competition from digital SLRs makes deciding between the R1 and a D-SLR difficult.'
PC Mag reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 and isn't overly impressed. They write - 'If you've got deep pockets, absolutely abhor changing lenses, and don't mind a 5X optical zoom limit, perhaps this camera's great image quality will offset its heft and make it a good buy. For everyone outside that narrow subset of photographers, however, there are just too many good enthusiast cameras and affordable D-SLRs to consider spending so much on this one. Save $300 and go with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30, or if you like a wider angle on your zoom, go for the Fuji FinePix S9000. If you've got a thousand bucks to spend on your next camera, though, we suggest making the leap to a D-SLR and picking up the Nikon D50 with two lenses.'
DP Reviews has posted an excellent review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 a digital camera that they obviously like, giving it a rating of 'highly recommended'. They write - 'I'll start as I shall no doubt finish this little piece of editorial, the lens is worth the price of the DSC-R1 alone. That fact is not to be underestimated, it's a great lens which provides you with a very useful 24 - 120 mm zoom range (which will be sufficient for the majority of users). Doing the math it's pretty clear that you have to spend a fairly considerable sum on lenses for a D-SLR to get close to this range and the quality of the DSC-R1's lens.'
Camera Labs reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 and reports - 'The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 is a unique digital camera which not only redefines the all-in-one category, but questions whether you really need a digital SLR. One of the greatest advantages digital SLRs always had over all-in-one models was a larger sensor, allowing high sensitivities and low noise even at high resolutions - but now the R1 offers such a sensor in a sealed body. Couple this with high resolution and an excellent lens and you've got what should be a winning package.'Popular Photography reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 and writes - 'This camera can handle most situations, including product and nature shots, with ease. The wide-angle lens and accessory-dedicated flash also make it ideal for real estate, insurance, and other business uses. But portrait and sports shooters won't be satisfied with the resolution and response of the R1's EVF, the limited scope of its built-in lens, or the shortcomings of its external flash system.'
Steves Digicams reviews the Sony CyberShot DSC-R1 and writes - 'The R1's Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonar lens is an impressive piece of glass, having an appearance more like a dSLR's interchangeable lenses than the fixed lens of a consumer digicam. It is also versatile, offering a wider field of view than most prosumer digicams at 24mm and a useful telephoto focal length of 120mm; this lens fits what most dSLR users describe as their "walk-around" lens. Its variable aperture is a relatively fast f/2.8 at its 24mm wide angle extreme, but slows to f/4.8 at its 120mm telephoto focal length. The lens produces very sharp results throughout its zoom and aperture ranges, but with a slight amount of edge softness at wide angle with small aperture settings, and at moderate to telephoto focal lengths with moderate to large aperture settings. Chromatic aberrations were well controlled, with only a slight amount of purple fringing present in very high contrast areas. The lens exhibits slight amounts of barrel distortion at wide angle and pin cushioning at moderate focal lengths, but no noticeable distortion at full telephoto. If your needs exceed the 24-120mm focal length range, Sony offers the VCL-DEH17R 1.7X Tele and VCL-DEH08R Wide End Conversion Lenses, extending the R1's range to 19-204mm; neither conversion lens was tested.'
Megapixel reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 and writes - ' The colour reproduction of the R1 is excellent. With the camera set to its default setting for saturation, colours are true-to-life and the image processing avoids making colours overly vibrant. In part this is due to the fact that the Auto white balance is reliable and, works well under varied circumstances. Similarly, the One-Push white balance is very effective and extremely easy to use, thanks to a well-designed system to set a white point under ambient light.'
Lets Go Digital reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC R1 where they write - 'The Sony Cybershot R1 is far from your average digital camera. It is a definite trendsetter, a digital camera that has noticeably raised the bar another notch for the competition. Not only does the camera radiate quality, it shows it in every aspect and truly deserves all praise. Sony have every right to be pleased with the end result. We can only conclude we were lucky to have had an opportunity to work with such a top quality camera. Hats off to Sony!'
Macworld has a mini review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 where they write - 'If you can live without changing lenses, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 makes a versatile alternative to a digital SLR—albeit at a DSLR price. You’ll get great image quality and wide-angle capability. However, you’ll lose out if typical point-and-shoot features such as a movie mode and voice annotation are important to you.'
DP Expert reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 which they are pretty impressed with. They write - 'The Sony DSC–R1 is a worthy successor to the F828, the best all-in-one camera that we had so far tested. Occasionally a camera comes along that is such a pleasure to use that you find yourself picking it up and looking for subjects just for the fun of it. The R1 inspires confidence that every picture will be sharp, well exposed and accurately coloured. Add to that the quality of construction and the responsive feel of the camera and it gets a high recommendation.'
Digital Camera Info has posted a review of the 10.3 megapixel, 5x Optical Zoom lens Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 Digital Camera where they write - 'The Sony R1 will ultimately serve a small portion of consumers quite well: sightseers, realtors, and those looking for a casual high-performance imager without concern for speed. The quality rivals or surpasses many entry-level DSLR kits and will not disappoint those willing to invest $1,000 for it. Unfortunately, the sharp lens and clean images come at a significant expense. Users will have to sacrifice an optical viewfinder, lens interchangeability, autofocus performance, shooting speed (all around) and durability. While the R1 is not likely to appeal to those graduating from an FZ30 or other ultra zoom model, the camera offers a unique combination of exceptional Zeiss-branded glass and APS-C sized CMOS sensor unavailable on any other model.'
DPexpert has posted a review of the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 where they write - 'The Sony DSC–R1 is a worthy successor to the F828, the best all-in-one camera that we had so far tested. Occasionally a camera comes along that is such a pleasure to use that you find yourself picking it up and looking for subjects just for the fun of it. The R1 inspires confidence that every picture will be sharp, well exposed and accurately coloured. Add to that the quality of construction and the responsive feel of the camera and it gets a high recommendation.'
Posted by Darren in our Sony category on September 08, 2005
When I came across Sony R1 sample photos on the net I was sold. I nearly bought a Canon 350D but I now produce images of fantastic quality without the need to buy lenses that cost as much as the R1 itself (and still fall short of the R1 image quality)
I take mainly ambient and low-light shots of live theatre. The R1 is silent in operation, the swing out screen - to my pleasant surprise is an asset. It is fast enough at focusing and shot to shot. Colour rendition and clarity are a total joy. The lens at its 24 mm widest angle produces images with the freedom for heavy creative cropping due to their negligible distortion. Of course it is limited at the telephoto end. But what I had to weigh up was the merits of buying a camera to complement my existing camera or to displace it. Digital cameras available in the next few years will no doubt amaze. So rather than pay big bucks now for a top end DSLR that will be quite obsolete in five years, I chose for the time being to get a camera that complements my Panasonic FZ2 which sports f2.8 @ 420 mm and optical image stabilisation - it produces shots that bring me a lot of compliments. One day when digital camera development has plateaued I'll look to buying one camera that does all. When folks say that they hate EVF viewfinders - ask yourself if a brighter image to your eye makes any difference to the final image you capture. I suspect that many of those who dismiss EVF are rather like golfers who think that their game will improve if they buy the best clubs. Thanks to you bloggers who helped me decide on the R1.
I agee whole heartedly with Peter's comments on the Sony R1. It is a large camera - but at the same time it feels right and handles very well. As may people have said the sheer quality of the lens and the fantastic pictures it produces speak for themselves. For the money there is NOTHING to touch it.