Sony's NEX-3 and NEX-5 cameras compete with micro four-thirds

Sony has joined Samsung in competing against micro four-thirds cameras, the small, SLR-like models with large sensors and interchangeable lenses.

The new 14-megapixel Sony NEX-3 and Sony NEX-5 add a third line of digital cameras to Sony's Cyber-shot point-and-shoots and Alpha-series SLRs. At half the size and weight of the smallest Sony SLR, the NEX models are, Sony claims, the smallest and lightest interchangeable lens cameras on the market.

Here are some key features on the NEX cameras:

• The large APS sensor, similar to what most SLRs have, is slightly larger than sensors found in micro four-thirds cameras.
• Sony claims its contrast AF system will be superior to an SLR's phase detect AF system when recording video, since it will allow for continuous autofocus and auto exposure.
• There's a new HDR (high dynamic range) mode that combines three shots, instead of two.

• A panorama sweep feature lets you create 3D panoramas (although Sony says you will need to download a firmware upgrade first). You'll also need to have an HDTV that lets you view 3D images.
• Compatibility with a new Sony series of lenses: E-mount lenses. Sony will also offer a $200 adaptor that lets you attach lenses compatible with the Alpha series SLRs.
• The 3-inch swiveling LCD has 921,000 dots, which means it should be quite sharp.
• You can access 80 shooting tips via the camera's graphical user interface.
• You can store photos on either Memory Sticks or SD cards.

Sony's NEX-3 digital camera

The major differences between the two bodies are that the NEX-3 has the more rounded design and the NEX-5 includes two video codecs that let you shoot in one of two different 1080i high-def video modes: an AVCHD mode (at 60 frames per second) or in an MP4 mode (at 30 frames per second). The NEX-3 only lets you capture in the MP4 mode.

Both models should be available in July and will ship with one of two kit lenses:

• NEX-5 with an 18-55mm zoom lens ($700)
• NEX-5 with a 16mm prime lens ($650)
• NEX-3 with an 18-55mm zoom lens ($600)
• NEX-3 with a 16mm prime lens ($550)

Sony also announced some other new products:

New lenses for NEX cameras. There are three new E-series models, which Sony says will include optical image-stabilization. Although Sony's SLRs use body-based IS, which shifts the sensor, the NEX models needed to be very compact. So, Sony put the stabilization into the appropriate lenses.

The new models are are:

• 16mm prime lens, $250. Sony will offer two additional converter lenses (for around $140 each) that will attach to this lens, turning it into either a wider-angle lens or introduce a fish-eye type of distortion.
• 18-55mm image-stabilized zoom, $300.
• 18-200mm image-stabilized zoom (price not yet available.)

Sony is also introducing these accessories which will fit into the camera's hot shoe: a microphone ($150), optical viewfinder, ($200) and small external HVL-F7S flash (included with both camera bodies).

An interchangeable-lens camcorder. Sony announced another very interesting product, although technical specs were sparse: A new camcorder with a large APS-sized sensor, the same size as the ones in the new NEX cameras. The new camcorder's body can accept Sony interchangeable lenses, including not just the new E-series lenses, but also Zeiss and Sony lenses compatible with Sony's Alpha SLRs.

Stay tuned for more on this interesting Sony camcorder.

—Terry Sullivan