Sony has released the 61MP Alpha 7R V mirrorless camera with a new AI processing unit chip.
The new camera can shoot 8K video, with 8-stop image stabilization; the fifth-generation Alpha 7R V is well-rounded for both photography and 8K, 4K video applications.
Sony Alpha 7R V key features
- 61MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor
- BIONZ XR & AI Processing Unit
- AI-Based Real-Time Tracking AF System
- 8K 24p, 4K 60p, FHD 120p 10-Bit Video
- 4K 16-Bit Raw Output; S-Log3/S-Cinetone
- 44m-Dot EVF with 120 fps Refresh Rate
- 2″ 4-Axis Multi-Angle Touchscreen LCD
- 10 fps Shooting with AF/AE Tracking
- 8-Stop 5-Axis Image Stabilization
- Dual CFexpress Type A/SD Card Slots.
The Alpha 7R V features a back-illuminated design. Sony states the full-frame 61MP Exmor R CMOS sensor offers a mixture of high resolution with high clarity, low noise, and a wide 15-stop dynamic range. The sensor’s structure promotes impressive image quality, and a copper wiring layer improves data transmission speed for creating 14-bit, high-resolution 61MP stills with a native sensitivity range from ISO 100-32000, which can be further expanded to ISO 50-102400.
A new BIONZ XR processing engine offers up to 8x greater processing performance compared to previous generations, which enables faster overall performance, better image quality with wide sensitivity and dynamic ranges, and improved processing that’s capable of handling AI tasks and intelligent AF alongside imaging processes. This processing system also reduces rolling shutter.
The sensor and processor enable up to 10 fps shooting, at full resolution with a mechanical shutter, for up to 583 consecutive compressed raw frames, with full-time AF/AE. If shooting JPEG only, more than 1000 frames can be recorded in a single burst.
The Alpha 7R V gets an updated IS system that supports up to 8 stops of camera shake compensation. The 5-axis stabilization system combines a high-performance gyro sensor with an optimized algorithm for more precise shake control and improved communication between the camera body and lens.
For a more cinematic look, the camera includes S-Log 2 & 3 and S-CINETONE. A new feature for a stills camera is the inclusion of Breathing Compensation. This will lower the issue when rack focusing and the background shifts making it a bit distracting. Also included is a Quick main menu. This is the same as the FX30.
- Focus map
- Face AF toggle
- Shot marks
- Flexible exposure mode
- Shockless WB.
There is also an Active IS mode that adds even more precise stabilization methods for even smoother footage. Also, this digital stabilization system has been updated with a new algorithm that offers the best stabilization performance when paired with select OSS-enabled lenses.
With the new AI processor, AF is also improved in video modes with more advanced tracking features.
Making use of the high-resolution sensor and fast processing capabilities, UHD 8K 24p and UHD 4K 60p XAVC HS 10-bit 4:2:2 video recording is possible using the full width of the sensor with full pixel readout for. If using a Super 35 crop, full pixel readout recording is possible at up to UHD 4K at frame rates up to 30p or 6.2K oversampling can be used for greater sharpness and detail.
Pricing and Availability
The new Alpha 7R V will begin shipping in December and is available for approximately $3,900 USD and $5,300 CAD.
