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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 Sony "breaks the mold" with a unique SLR/all-in-one hybrid design. Select a topic Reference: Datasheet DSC-R1 Sample Images DSC-R1 IMATEST Results DSC-R1 Photo Gallery! --------------------------------- 1. Overview and Highlights 2. User Report 3. Technology Notes 4. Design 5. Viewfinder 6. Optics & Lens Tests (!) 7. Exposure and Flash 8. Timing 9. User Interface 10. Camera Modes and Menus 11. Image Storage and Interface 12. Video, Power, and Software 13. Test Results and Conclusion --------------------------------- Print-Friendly Review Version Additional Resources and Other Links Reader Comments on DSC-R1 Review --------------------------------- Digital Camera Comparometer (TM) --------------------------------- <-- Digital Cameras (Home) <-- Digital Camera Reviews Index (Next): User Report>> Page 1:Overview and Highlights Review First Posted: 09/20/2005, Updated: 11/18/2005

	*	10.3-megapixel CMOS sensor delivers uninterpolated images as large as 3,888 x 2,592 pixels.
	*	Large sensor (almost APS-C size) offers improved noise performance
	*	5x optical zoom lens covers a 24-120mm equivalent focus range.
	*	Pop-up, 2.0-inch LCD monitor that swivels 270 degrees.

 

NOTE: This review has now been updated, based on test results from a full production sample of the Sony DSC-R1.

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Sony DSC-R1 Overview

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Sony's Cyber-shot DSC-R1 is one of the latest in the long (and incredibly broad) line of digital cameras that reflects Sony's commanding position in the digital camera marketplace. The Sony R1 (considerably) extends the high range of the Cyber-shot line, offering a full 10.3 megapixels of resolution, via a Sony-built CMOS sensor. The CMOS sensor in the DSC-R1 is just slightly smaller than the "APS-C" size imagers used in most current digital SLRs, and brings with it the expected improvement in image noise levels and ISO sensitivity that naturally accompany larger sensor chips. At the same time though, the Sony DSC-R1 takes advantage of the low power consumption of CMOS to provide a live electronic viewfinder display, something missing in typical SLR camera designs. Because it needs no bulky mirror assembly, the rear element of the Sony DSC-R1's 5x zoom lens can get much closer to the sensor's surface, greatly reducing chromatic aberration and improving corner to corner sharpness. A unique, 2.0" top-mounted, swiveling LCD monitor rounds out the package. Taken as a package, the Sony DSC-R1 delivers excellent optical and image quality at an affordable price, and is sure to present a compelling proposition for many photographers who might otherwise be considering a digital SLR. Read on for all the details on this unique digital camera.

 

Sony DSC-R1 Highlights

• 10.3-megapixel CMOS sensor delivering resolutions as high as 3,888 x 2,560 pixels.
• Digital electronic viewfinder with 0.44-inch, high-resolution TFT display.
• Top-mounted 2.0-inch TFT color LCD monitor that pops up and swivels 270 degrees.
• 14.3-71.5mm lens (equivalent to a 24-120mm lens on a 35mm camera) with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 to f/4.8, depending on the zoom setting, with manual zoom and focus rings.
• "Smart" and "Precision" digital zoom options for digital magnification up to 15x total.
• Auto and Manual focus with focus magnification, and adjustable AF spot.
• Macro focus option.
• Auto, Program AE, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual, and four Scene shooting modes.
• Shutter speeds from 1/2,000 to 30 seconds, plus a Time setting for manual control of long exposures (up to three minutes).
• Multi, Center-Weighted, and Spot metering options, with AE Lock function and Auto Exposure Bracketing.
• Adjustable ISO with seven settings (Auto, 160, 200, 400, 800, 1,600, and 3,200).
• Built-in, pop-up flash with five operating modes and manually adjustable intensity.
• External flash hot-shoe and ACC connector jack for accessory flash units.
• Continuous Shooting and Self-Timer modes.
• Color Saturation, Contrast, and Sharpness adjustments.
• Adjustable White Balance with seven modes, including a manual setting.
• Color modes include Standard (sRGB), Vivid Color (sRGB), Black & White, Adobe RGB with embedded color profile, and Sepia.
• RAW and JPEG file formats.
• Images saved on Sony Memory Stick, CompactFlash Type I or II memory cards, or MicroDrive.
• USB cable and interface software for connecting to a computer and downloading images.
• NTSC or PAL selectable video output signal, with cable included.
• Power supplied by a single high-capacity lithium-ion battery pack or AC adapter.
• DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) and PictBridge compliant.