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Sony Alpha 700
Sony Alpha 700
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Sony α 700
Overview
MakerSony Group
TypeDigital single-lens reflex camera
Lens
LensA-mount
Sensor/medium
Sensor12.4 effective megapixels CMOS
Maximum resolution4288 × 2856 pixels
Film speedAuto, 100 - 6400
Storage mediaCompactFlash I/II, Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo
Focusing
Focus areas11-points, center double cross-hair
Flash
FlashBuilt in
Shutter
Shutter speed range1/8000 - 30 sec, bulb. X-sync 1/250s (without SteadyShot), 1/200 (with SteadyShot)
Continuous shooting5 frames per second
Viewfinder
Viewfinder95% coverage, 0.9x magnification
General
LCD screen921K-point (307k pixel), 3-inch TFT LCD
Batterylithium ion battery pack
Weight690 g (24 oz) (without battery)
Made inJapan

The Sony α700 (DSLR-A700) was the second model launched in the Sony α series of APS-C sensor digital single-lens reflex cameras, following the α100, with several improvements over the latter. Some of the camera's technology was inspired by the former Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D, such as the man-machine command interface/commands, LCD menus, viewfinder, and lens mount.

On March 8, 2007, at the PMA Trade Show, Sony announced two new α cameras, both positioned to be "above" the α100 in the Alpha line-up in terms of price and functionality. One model was referred to as a "high amateur" model, with a release date of late 2007. The α700 was discontinued, and its successor, the A77 (SLT-A77), was announced on August 24, 2011, with availability from October 2011.[1]

Release

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On September 6, 2007, Sony announced that the Sony α700 would be launched on November 16, 2007. However, the α700 went on sale almost immediately. By the end of Sept 2007, the α700 could be ordered from sonystyle.com or at many Best Buy locations.[2] Featuring the Exmor CMOS sensor with 12.24 Mpixels capable of images at a maximum of 4288 × 2856 resolution, together with a BIONZ image processor for supporting RAW noise reduction and ISO 3200 and 6400 boost sensitivity. Also featuring HDMI output and a magnesium alloy and polycarbonate body. The camera has the combo with the DT16-105 lens kit (DT 16-105mm F3.5-5.6) at ¥230,000, also the body only camera option at ¥180,000.

Noise reduction

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The α700 initially received criticism from the review community for their "cooked RAWs", a function that integrated a noise reduction algorithm on high-ISO images – including on raw files (hence, "cooked" into the files). After its release, Sony released a series of firmware updates, but the noise reduction issue was not resolved until the fourth update, which added a variable setting for noise reduction. Other updates included extending exposure bracketing 2 EV and improving high-ISO image grain.[3]

Comparison with Sony α350

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The α700 had a lower pixel resolution than the later α350 (12.4 vs. 14.2), and the α350 included additional features (Live preview mode, automatic pop-up flash) at a lower price. However, the α700 used a pentaprism viewfinder instead of a pentamirror, had a higher burst speed (5 frames per second vs 2.5), had a higher resolution LCD screen, magnesium alloy body, twin control dials, better environmental seals, dual flash media slots (CF and MS-DUO), a PC Sync socket, more autofocus points, a stronger autofocus motor, and HDMI output. The α350's sensor was also a CCD sensor, as opposed to the α700's Exmor CMOS sensor which granted the α700 superior low-light performance.[4]

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Alpha 700 (model DSLR-A700) is a released by Sony in as the company's first high-end DSLR, succeeding the entry-level Alpha 100 and building on the legacy of Minolta's A-mount system after Sony's acquisition of its camera division in 2006. Announced on September 6, 2007, the Alpha 700 targeted enthusiast photographers with its 12.2-megapixel APS-C-sized —the first of its kind in a DSLR—paired with the for enhanced and . It featured an 11-point phase-detection system with a center dual-cross for improved accuracy, sensor-shift Super SteadyShot stabilization effective up to 4 stops of shake reduction, and a maximum of 1/8000 second. The camera supported 5 frames-per-second continuous shooting for up to 18 RAW images, an ISO range of 100-6400, and a 3-inch LCD monitor with 921,600-dot resolution for playback and menu navigation, though it lacked live view functionality. Notable for its magnesium alloy body with dust and moisture sealing, dual storage slots for Type I/II and PRO Duo cards, and compatibility with over 16 million A-mount lenses, the Alpha 700 also introduced output for video and Sony's PhotoTV HD mode for optimized television viewing of images. Powered by an NP-FM500H rated for approximately 650 shots per charge, it was available in body-only configurations or bundled with lenses such as the 16-105mm f/3.5-5.6 DT, positioning it as a direct competitor to models like the and in the mid-2000s DSLR market.

Development and release

Announcement and background

The Sony Alpha 700 was developed as the successor to the Sony , Sony's inaugural DSLR released in 2006, shortly after the company acquired Konica Minolta's camera division assets in early 2006. This acquisition provided Sony with the A-mount lens system and key technologies from 's DSLR lineup, enabling the integration of established elements such as the eye-start activation, the rear control dial layout, and the viewfinder design originally featured in the . Positioned as a prosumer-level camera, the Alpha 700 aimed to challenge established competitors like Canon's 40D and Nikon's D300 in the advanced market, leveraging Sony's expertise in image sensors while maintaining full compatibility with the extensive A-mount lens ecosystem inherited from Minolta. On March 8, 2007, during a press event at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) Trade Show in , Sony first teased the Alpha 700 as part of expansions to its Alpha DSLR lineup, describing it as a high amateur model above the α100 with a new and enhanced performance for high-amateur users. The announcement highlighted its development specifically around a higher-resolution image processor but withheld detailed specifications at the time, focusing instead on its role in broadening 's presence in the DSLR segment following the integration. This initial reveal generated anticipation among photographers familiar with Minolta's heritage, as the Alpha 700 was positioned to revive and update the prosumer ethos of the Maxxum 7D, which had been discontinued without a direct follow-up. Sony provided full of the on , , officially unveiling its key features, including a 12.2-megapixel sensor and the Super SteadyShot in-body system capable of up to four stops of compensation. These teased specifications underscored Sony's shift toward technology for improved low-light performance and speed, building on the α100's CCD-based design while honoring Minolta's stabilization legacy from the Maxxum . The camera's announcement marked a pivotal step in Sony's strategy to establish a competitive DSLR offering, directly addressing the gap left by the aging Minolta models and appealing to users invested in the A-mount system.

Launch details

The Sony Alpha 700 was officially released on November 16, 2007, in , following its announcement earlier that year, though initial shipments began in September 2007 in select regions outside , with broader availability rolling out in October in markets like the and . At launch, the camera body was priced at approximately $1,400 , positioning it as an accessible option for serious photographers, while kits bundled with the 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 lens were offered for around $1,500, and premium packages with the 16-105mm f/3.5-5.6 lens reached about $1,900. Accessories such as the VG-C70AM vertical battery grip were made available simultaneously through authorized retailers to enhance handling for extended shooting sessions. Sony marketed the Alpha 700 as a DSLR aimed at enthusiasts upgrading from entry-level models like the Alpha 100, leveraging the integration of 's established A-mount lens compatibility and in-body stabilization technology to appeal to users familiar with the Minolta legacy. Distribution occurred primarily through 's dedicated Alpha series retail channels, including major electronics stores and online platforms, with an emphasis on bundled lens options to facilitate immediate adoption within the growing digital SLR market.

Design and ergonomics

Body construction

The Sony Alpha 700 employs an aluminum chassis with a body shell for structural integrity, paired with a exterior on the rear and side panels to achieve a balance of robustness and reduced weight, resulting in a body mass of 690 grams excluding the battery and . This construction draws from the durable engineering traditions of Sony's acquisition of Minolta's camera division, ensuring high build quality suitable for enthusiast photographers. Measuring 142 x 105 x 80 millimeters, the camera's compact form factor accommodates a professional-grade layout while incorporating basic weather resistance measures, such as around key openings, to protect against and light ingress during typical field use. The Alpha 700 was assembled in , reflecting Sony's commitment to stringent processes inherited from Minolta's legacy in precision optics and camera manufacturing. To maintain sensor cleanliness, the camera integrates an anti-dust system that utilizes sonic of the assembly upon power-off, effectively dislodging particles from the without manual intervention.

Controls and interface

The Sony Alpha 700 features a comprehensive array of physical controls designed for efficient operation during . It includes two command dials—the front dial for adjustments and the rear dial for , ISO (via dedicated button), and menu navigation—allowing users to make quick changes without delving into menus. A multi-selector on the rear enables precise AF point selection and menu scrolling, while dedicated buttons provide direct access to essential functions such as ISO sensitivity, white balance, drive mode, , and metering patterns. The prominent Function (Fn) button, located on the rear, grants one-touch access to frequently used settings like focus mode and , streamlining workflow for advanced users. The camera's menu system is accessed via a dedicated button and displayed on its 3-inch LCD, organized into a hierarchical structure with tabs for Record, Playback, Custom, and Setup categories, each containing sub-menus for detailed adjustments. Navigation is intuitive, using the and dials to move through options, with the ability to start from the top of the menu or the previous position for faster access. Customization is extensive, supporting the assignment of various functions (such as lock or D-Range Optimizer) to the custom and allowing users to save up to three memory recall sets on the , each storing 28 parameters for personalized shooting profiles. The Quick Navigation (Quick Navi) interface, activated by the Fn , overlays icons on the LCD for rapid adjustment of key parameters without entering full menus. Ergonomically, the Alpha 700 incorporates a deep, rubberized right-hand grip that contours comfortably to the user's fingers, facilitating secure handling during extended shooting sessions. The overall body design positions controls within easy thumb and forefinger reach, promoting one-handed operation, while a grip sensor detects hand presence to activate the LCD or . Additionally, the eye-level includes a diopter adjustment dial for precise focusing customization to individual eyesight. As an A-mount camera, the Alpha 700 integrates seamlessly with and A-mount lenses via electronic contacts, enabling full communication for control, , and data recording. This compatibility ensures that lens metadata, such as and maximum , is accurately captured and utilized in the camera's operations.

Sensor and image quality

Sensor technology

The Sony Alpha 700 features a 12.25-megapixel CMOS sensor in an format measuring 23.5 x 15.6 mm, which serves as the core imaging hardware for capturing high-resolution photographs. This sensor delivers a maximum of 4288 x 2856 pixels, enabling detailed output suitable for large prints and professional applications. The technology incorporates on-chip analog-to-digital conversion and dual-stage noise reduction—analog before conversion and digital after—to minimize noise during image capture, particularly at elevated sensitivities. The sensor supports a native ISO sensitivity range from 100 to 6400, allowing for versatile performance in varying lighting conditions while maintaining relatively low noise levels thanks to its integrated noise-reduction circuitry. This extended range provides photographers with flexibility for low-light shooting without excessive grain, though usable quality diminishes at the highest settings. The sensor size also imparts a 1.5x when paired with A-mount lenses, effectively magnifying the and enhancing telephoto capabilities for subjects like or sports. In terms of image fidelity, the achieves a of approximately 11.9 stops at base ISO, supporting 12-bit raw file capture for rich and post-processing latitude. This bit depth preserves subtle tonal gradations, making it well-suited for editing workflows that demand .

Image processing

The Sony Alpha 700 utilizes the , a hardware-based system that manages compression, performs color space conversion between and RGB modes, and enables in-camera editing capabilities such as image trimming, resizing, and rotation. The camera records images in RAW format as proprietary ARW files, which preserve unprocessed data for flexibility, alongside options in Fine and Standard compression levels. The Optimizer (DRO), integrated into the pipeline, enhances output by analyzing scene contrast to recover details in highlights and shadows, with selectable modes including Off, Auto/Standard, and Advanced (manual levels or three-frame ) to balance tonal gradation without clipping. High-ISO posed an early challenge, as the initial (version 1.00) applied "baked-in" smoothing to RAW files at sensitivities of ISO 1600 and above, sparking among photographers who noted reduced detail and criticized the lack of user control over this processing. version 2.00, released in 2007, addressed these issues by introducing variable High ISO NR settings—Off, Low, Normal, and High—allowing users to disable processing in RAW files for greater latitude while improving overall performance and sharpness in low-contrast scenes. Subsequent updates refined the image pipeline further; version 4.00, issued in September 2008, enhanced color noise minimization at high ISOs, optimized DRO , and solidified the "Off" NR option to ensure RAW files remain fully unprocessed when desired.

Autofocus and exposure

Autofocus system

The Sony Alpha 700 features a TTL phase-detection system with 11 points, designed to provide reliable focus acquisition for still photography. The system features 11 AF points, with a central dual cross-type comprising two horizontal and two vertical line sensors for superior precision, particularly with lenses having a maximum of f/2.8 or wider, and ten additional line sensors offering sensitivity to detail in a single orientation. This setup allows for wide-area, spot, or local AF selection, enabling photographers to target subjects across a broad field or isolate specific areas with high accuracy. The camera supports multiple AF modes to suit various shooting scenarios: Single-shot AF (AF-S) locks focus for stationary subjects, Continuous AF (AF-C) tracks moving subjects with predictive adjustments, and Automatic AF (AF-A) switches between the two based on detected motion. Additionally, Direct Manual Focus (DMF) allows automatic focus followed by immediate manual refinement via the lens ring, while full Manual Focus provides complete user control without electronic assistance. The system's sensitivity ranges from 0 EV to 18 EV at ISO 100 equivalent, ensuring effective performance in a wide range of lighting conditions. Eye-Start AF activation enhances responsiveness, using an optical near the to initiate focusing the moment the user's eye approaches, reducing shutter lag for candid or action shots. The system includes an AF illuminator LED effective up to approximately 7 meters for low-light assistance. For lens compatibility, the Alpha 700 fully supports and A-mount lenses, including older models that rely on the camera's built-in screw-drive motor to power in-lens mechanisms, ensuring seamless integration with the extensive legacy A-mount ecosystem.

Metering and modes

The Sony Alpha 700 employs a TTL metering system utilizing a 40-segment honeycomb-pattern for precise across the frame. This setup supports three primary metering modes: multi-segment (evaluative) metering, which analyzes the entire scene with weighted emphasis on key areas; center-weighted metering, which prioritizes the central portion of the frame; and spot metering, which measures a small area at the active focus point for targeted exposure control. Exposure control is facilitated through a versatile set of modes accessible via the top-mounted mode dial. These include Program Auto (P) with program shift for flexible aperture-shutter combinations; Aperture Priority (A), allowing user-selected f-stops while the camera adjusts shutter speed; Shutter Priority (S), for setting shutter speeds with automatic aperture adjustment; and Manual (M) for full user control over both parameters. Additionally, an Automatic (Auto) mode provides point-and-shoot simplicity, while Scene Selection offers six presets—Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports Action, Sunset, and Night Portrait—each optimizing exposure, white balance, and focus for specific scenarios. The mechanical shutter operates electronically controlled in a vertical-traverse focal-plane design, offering speeds from 30 seconds to 1/8000 second, along with Bulb mode for extended exposures up to approximately 30 minutes. Flash synchronization occurs at 1/250 second without enabled, dropping to 1/200 second when SteadyShot is active, ensuring compatibility with Sony's ADI/Pre-flash TTL metering for accurate fill lighting. White balance adjustment ensures accurate color rendition under varying light sources, with options including Auto mode for automatic detection; six presets (Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Incandescent, Fluorescent, and Flash); and custom settings via selection ranging from 2500K to 9900K. Fine-tuning is available through 7-step magenta-green and amber-blue compensation adjustments (each step approximately 5 , for a total range of up to ±15 ), in addition to 19-step selection from 2500K to 9900K. while supports three-frame sequences in two-step increments for post-capture flexibility.

Features and performance

Stabilization and drive

The Sony Alpha 700 features in-body through its Super SteadyShot system, which employs an image-sensor shift mechanism driven by gyroscopic sensors to detect and counteract camera shake. This technology provides approximately 2.5 to 4 stops of compensation, varying by shooting conditions and lens used, allowing for sharper handheld images in low light without a . As an in-body solution, Super SteadyShot is compatible with all A-mount lenses, including those without built-in stabilization, enhancing versatility across the Alpha lens ecosystem. For drive modes, the Alpha 700 offers single-frame advance for deliberate shooting, continuous low-speed advance at approximately 3 frames per second for moderate action, and continuous high-speed advance at about 5 frames per second to capture fast sequences. It also includes a self-timer with 2-second or 10-second delays, incorporating a mirror lock-up function to minimize vibrations during long exposures. In continuous high-speed mode, the camera's buffer supports up to 18 RAW frames or 34 frames before throughput slows, depending on and card speed. The Alpha 700 uses cards with write performance equivalent to UHS-I standards (up to 104 MB/s), enabling efficient clearing of the buffer during bursts. Flash synchronization on the Alpha 700 includes support for high-speed sync with compatible external Sony HVL-series units, allowing flash use at shutter speeds beyond the standard 1/250-second X-sync (or 1/200-second with SteadyShot active). Rear-curtain sync is also available, firing the flash at the end of the exposure to produce natural motion blur trails behind moving subjects.

Viewfinder and display

The Sony Alpha 700 features a fixed eye-level optical utilizing a design, providing photographers with a clear, through-the-lens composition aid typical of DSLRs of its era. This offers 95% coverage and 0.9x when using a 50mm lens focused at infinity, allowing for accurate framing while accommodating the camera's sensor . It includes diopter adjustment ranging from -3.0 to +1.0 diopters for users with varying eyesight needs, and an eye relief of approximately 25mm from the (or 21mm from the eyepiece frame at -1 diopter), enhancing comfort during extended viewing sessions. The focusing screen is a spherical acute matte type, and the system supports interchangeable s, enabling customization for manual focus precision or specific shooting scenarios such as or macro work. Complementing the optical viewfinder, the Alpha 700's rear display is a fixed 3.0-inch monitor with a resolution of 921,600 dots, branded as Xtra Fine LCD for enhanced clarity and color reproduction. This hybrid-type screen delivers 100% coverage for accurate image review and menu navigation, though it lacks tilting or articulating mechanisms found in some contemporary models. The display's brightness is adjustable in five levels, aiding visibility in varied lighting conditions without specific anti-reflective treatments noted in the design. During playback, the LCD supports detailed image inspection with up to 13x magnification zoom for checking focus and composition details, alongside options to scroll through enlarged areas using the rear control dial. Histograms are available in both and RGB channel views to evaluate exposure and color balance post-capture, while data overlays provide access to shooting parameters such as , , ISO, and white balance settings. Notably, the Alpha 700 does not include live view functionality, relying exclusively on the optical for real-time composition rather than electronic preview on the LCD.

Comparisons and legacy

Predecessor comparisons

The Sony Alpha 700 represented a significant evolution from the , released in 2004 as the first DSLR with in-body . While retaining the A-mount lens compatibility and similar ergonomic design inspired by Minolta's film-era SLRs, the Alpha 700 upgraded to a 12.2-megapixel sensor from the 7D's 6.0-megapixel CCD, enabling higher resolution for detailed imaging. Continuous shooting speed increased to 5 frames per second compared to the 7D's 3 fps, supporting up to 18 RAW frames in burst mode, which enhanced performance for action photography. The Alpha 700 refined the predecessor's Anti-Shake system into Super SteadyShot (SSS), claiming up to 4 stops of stabilization effectiveness, building on the 7D's pioneering 2-3 stops. In comparison to the of 2006, the Alpha 700 advanced as a semi-professional model with a more robust body versus the A100's polycarbonate construction, adding weather sealing for durability in varied conditions. Resolution rose from 10.2 megapixels to 12.2 megapixels, paired with an 11-point system featuring a double-cross sensor, outperforming the A100's 9-point AF for faster and more accurate focusing. The Alpha 700 introduced output for direct high-definition TV connectivity, absent in the A100, alongside a higher-resolution 0.92-million-dot LCD versus the A100's 0.23-million-dot display. Both shared the Super SteadyShot stabilization, but the A700's processor enabled 5 fps bursts against the A100's 3 fps. Key upgrades in the Alpha 700 included the CMOS sensor, which delivered improved of 11.9 EV compared to 11.0 EV in the Maxxum 7D and 11.2 EV in the Alpha 100, allowing better handling of high-contrast scenes through enhanced shadow and highlight detail recovery. updates for the A700 provided greater flexibility, addressing some A100 limitations in processing efficiency. Despite these advancements, the Alpha 700 inherited the Minolta/Sony lineage's renowned , emphasizing natural tones and accurate skin rendering, alongside compatibility with the extensive A-mount lens ecosystem developed since the .

Reception and impact

The Sony Alpha 700 received positive critical reception upon its 2007 launch, with reviewers highlighting its image quality and robust construction as standout features for a DSLR. DPReview awarded it high marks for the 12.2-megapixel sensor's low noise levels and , particularly in low-light conditions up to ISO 6400, which was competitive for the era. The site's detailed analysis also praised the body and environmental sealing, positioning the A700 as a durable successor to Minolta's designs. Similarly, Imaging Resource commended the camera's ergonomics, noting the contoured grip, intuitive controls, and bright that enhanced usability for extended shooting sessions. Early reviews identified some limitations, including the absence of live view functionality—which Sony deemed immature at the time—and no video recording capability, features that contemporaries like Canon's 40D partially offered. Initial concerns about elevated noise in RAW files at higher ISOs were addressed through subsequent updates, such as version 4 in 2008, which added an "Off" option for High ISO NR and improved color for ISO 1600 and above, enhancing overall image processing flexibility. The camera's compatibility with the extensive A-mount lens ecosystem, inherited from , was a key strength, appealing to users upgrading from legacy systems and broadening 's market appeal. In terms of legacy, the Alpha served as a pivotal bridge between Minolta's DSLR heritage and 's modern Alpha lineup, establishing the brand's foothold in the high-end segment against rivals like Nikon's D300. It influenced the design philosophy of its 2011 successor, the SLT-A77, by maintaining a focus on ergonomics, sensor-shift stabilization, and A-mount versatility amid the rising popularity of mirrorless cameras. The A was phased out around 2009–2011 as shifted priorities, but it retains popularity in the used market for its affordability and reliable performance with vintage lenses.

References

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