As time goes by...

[paulobro]

To tell you the truth I don't know why none of the top DSLR makers has as yet launched a top model that — a la Hasselblad — has the capacity to change, not only lenses but viewfinders and, yes, its backs...

I don't mean to say that is what I'm expecting from the new Sony(s) — although I wouldn't mind it at all — but such are the thoughts that come to my mind while I sit and wait for developments. On the other hand, what are the new or changed things I really need or do expect to see in the new model(s)?

Thought we could comment on that, while we wait: what are the top 3 things you hope/expect/demand in deciding to buy what is coming?

I'll go first:

1. Clearer viewfinder enabling trustworthy manual focus (mandatory);
2. Much better, really faster AF (expect);
3. Even better SSS performance (hope).

You?

[David Kilpatrick]

Points 1 and 2 are almost mutually exclusive. To get more light to the AF system, they have to use mirrors which send less light to the focusing screen - and then use a less effective screen, or put up with a dim viewfinder.

It is time they rethought autofocus sensing from the inside out. If the focus sensors were mounted on a glass prism or next to the eyepiece assembly and measured the focus FROM the screen, all the secondary mirror stuff could be eliminated - we could have proper focusing screens - and one collimation would be all that was needed.... get the screen right, the AF would be right.

David

[paulobro]

Well, I don't know HOW they will do it — heck!, I don't even know IF they will do it for that matter — but I find the need for precise MF/DMF mandatory in using f/1.4 lenses and the STF. Otherwise, given the very shallow DOF, even employing a viewfinder magnifier or a 2X angle finder you either must use a tripod or some other likewise support to sustain the exact distance, or sharp focuspoint placement will be a bet.

On the other hand AF tracking in the A-100 is also a bet, and one with even worse odds. I like taking birds in flight pictures for instance, and plenty of times although the AF mechanism will make noises and apparently attempt to track not one, not one take from a full series will come sharply focused. (And no, not blurred from bad tracking technique I assure you.)

If they won't, or can't fix these problems I'd see no point in upgrading.

[andrew_broadfoot]

Faster AF, and my number 1: less noise