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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 <<Technology Notes :(Previous) | (Next): Viewfinder>> Page 4:Design Review First Posted: 09/20/2005, Updated: 11/18/2005

Design

Extending a legacy of high-end digital cameras from Sony stretching all the way back to the original D700 model (introduced in September of 1998), the DSC-R1 updates the line with a 10.3-megapixel CMOS sensor and a very unique pop-up LCD monitor. The R1's actual camera body is really quite small, but the large 5x lens, top-mounted LCD monitor, and large handgrip add to the bulk and make for an impressive appearance. In addition to the large sensor, the R1 makes waves with its pop-up, 2.0-inch LCD monitor that also swivels 270 degrees - a truly unique design. The elongated lens barrel comprises most of the camera's mass, but the R1 offers a very substantial handgrip to help balance out the weight. The camera measures about 5.5 x 3.8 x 6.25 inches (139 x 98 x 156 millimeters) with the lens at its shortest position, but the plastic body panels do help cut the weight somewhat, the camera weighing in at approximately 36.9 ounces, or 1047 grams with battery pack, lens hood, and Memory Stick. An accessory camera bag would certainly be the preferred method of carrying and storing the R1, but the camera does come with a neck/shoulder strap.

The camera's front panel features the Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar 14.3-71.5mm 5x zoom lens and the AF assist / Self-Timer light. Also visible is the front of the pop-up flash compartment. Encircling the lens are two adjustment rings: a rubberized grip on the front end for actuating the zoom lens, and a second Manual Focus ring at the base of the lens. A set of 67mm filter threads on the inside lip of the zoom lens accommodates filters and conversion kit accessories, but I'd caution readers to be careful how heavy a lens they attach there. Because the threads are on the lens barrel itself, the zoom mechanism must support any weight attached there. (At least the zoom lens is built around a manually-actuated mechanism, which strikes me as being quite a bit more rugged than the electronically-actuated designs used on most digicams.) A pair of tabs on the outside edge of the lens serves as a mount for the included lens hood, which slides into the grooves and then turns to click into place.

The right side of the camera holds the multi-format memory card slot, covered by a hinged plastic door. The R1 accommodates Type I or II CF memory cards, including MicroDrives, as well as Sony Memory Sticks. At the very top of the right panel is one of the two neck strap attachment eyelets.

The left side of the camera features a handful of control buttons, including the Flash, White Balance, and Focus buttons, with a Focus mode adjustment dial as well. The second neck strap attachment eyelet is at the top, behind of the White Balance button. A set of connector terminals is safely protected by a plastic along the right edge, and include the ACC, USB, Video Out, and DC In terminals.

The R1's top panel accommodates the pop-up flash compartment, as well as the pop-up LCD monitor just behind the flash compartment. At the top of the handgrip are the Shutter button and Power dial, as well as the ISO button and a hot shoe for connecting external flash units.

The LCD monitor actually lifts upward 90 degrees, and can then swivel 270 degrees to face just about any shooting angle. Once the LCD monitor is facing backward (toward you), you can also lay it down flat, which aids in framing low shots.

The remaining controls are on the camera's rear panel, along with the electronic viewfinder eyepiece. The R1's electronic viewfinder (EVF) is surrounded by a rubber eyecup for cushioning, and features a dioptric adjustment lever just below the eyecup. Control buttons on the back panel include the Mode, Main Command and Sub Command dials, as well as the Metering, Drive/BKT, Self-Timer/Index, Magnify, Menu, AE Lock/Delete, Display, Playback, and OK buttons. Also on the rear panel are two sliding switches associated with viewfinder operation (Labeled "Monitor") and a memory card format selection switch. A toggle in the center of the Main Command dial is used for menu navigation, and to step through previously captured images in playback mode. (Because of the protruding eyepiece, some camera controls are a little difficult to see in the shot above.)

The camera's bottom panel is fairly flat, with a slightly textured grip pad surrounding the metal tripod mount. Also on the bottom panel is the camera's battery compartment, which features a locking, hinged door. The battery compartment is just far enough from the tripod mount to allow quick battery changes while working with most tripods, something I always look for in a digital camera, given the amount of studio shooting I do.