Capturebuzz

Responding to the growing demand for super zoom digital cameras, Sony has introduced two new 15x zoom Cyber-shot models – the DSC-H9 and DSC-H7. The DSC-H9 camera sports a 3-inch, flip-up LCD screen while the DSC-H7 camera has a non-articulating 2.5-inch LCD screen.

The new cameras can shoot up to 1/4000 sec, a critical speed for capturing fast-moving sports and freezing the action. Both cameras are powered by the Bionz processing engine, first used in Sony’s Alpha digital SLR camera system. This new circuitry speeds up response times and delivers the fast image processing speeds needed to produce color-rich, detailed pictures for true high-definition photo viewing.

Main Features

• 8.1 effective Megapixels (Super HAD 1/2.5 ” Type CCD)
• 15x optical zoom / 30x Precision Digital zoom
• Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens
• Face detection technology
• HD Smart shooting
• Super Steady Shot
• High sensitivity of ISO 3200 with Sony’s Clear RAW â„¢
• Large 3-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus tilting screen (DSC-H9)
• Large 2.5-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus (DSC-H7)
• BIONZ processor
• Night Shot (DSC-H9 only)
• On-screen menu in choice of 17 languages
• 31MB internal memory and Memory Stick/Pro Duo slot
• MPEG Movie FX Fine with sound
• PictBridge Direct Print support
• Stamina InfoLithium battery

The Sony H-series cameras incorporate selectable in-camera editing functions so you can spend more time on the field and less time behind a computer. Equipped with Sony’s Dynamic Range Optimizer, originally developed for the Alpha digital SLR system, the new cameras can analyze captured image data and instantly determine the best exposure and tonality of each picture before JPEG compression. Other helpful in-camera functions include red-eye correction and photo retouching effects with filters.

Availability

The DSC-H9 and DSC-H7 cameras will be available in April for $480 and $400, respectively (US MSRP). A high-definition component cable (VMC-HD1) will also be available in April for about $40. Additional accessories will include wide and telephoto conversion lenses, filters, batteries, travel chargers, sports packs and cases.

Both cameras can be ordered directly from Sony at SonyStyle.com.
Or, order at Amazon.com (see links below).