Thanks for opening up this thread Ed!
I got the SONY a99 very recently, and being the first SONY SLT camera I tried, my views are that of a virtual 'Newbie'. Meaning to say, I've hardly touched the surface of what this camera can or can't do.
Usual caveats apply, and we don't do any tech tests.
Here's a little more about the camera for quick reference and convenience.
Introducing the SONY SLT-A99V!
Sony's α99 is breaking new ground with the 24.3 megapixel 35mm full-frame Exmor CMOS Imaging Sensor and the world's first Dual AF. Combined with the BIONZImage Processing Engine and Sonys professional movie recording technology, it represents a major leap forward in quality and performance.
- 24.3-megapixel 35mm full-frame Exmor CMOS Imaging Sensor
- Advanced Integrated BIONZ Image Processing Engine
- Dual AF System (19+ 102 points)
- Translucent Mirror Technology
- Full-HD 60p/50p Movie Recording*
- High-Resolution XGA OLED Tru-Finder
The Full-frame Sensor for the Discerning Photographer
As one of the world's leading image sensor developers, Sony's latest innovation is the α99's sensor, 1.5x more sensitive and 2x more effective at eliminating noise than the acclaimed α900. Capture beautiful, finely detailed images from corner to corner with a wide dynamic range and low noise. Photographers and cinematographers will also welcome the gorgeous bokeh and full compatibility with full-frame wide-angle lenses.
Powerful 14-bit Processing for Fast, Responsive Shooting
Advanced BIONZ processing easily handles the massive 14-bit data generated by the α99's 35mm sensor. Even when loads are heaviest, such as during high-speed continuous shooting and Multi Frame NR, Sony's new high-speed front-end LSI chip processes data with precision. Images are clear with low noise thanks to area-specific noise reduction, while 14-bit RAW output is delivered with exceptional quality and ultra-rich gradation.
Taking Autofocus Further
Dual AF System is the world's first* AF system to employ two phase detection sensors. By maximising the strengths of both sensors, it vastly improves subject tracking performance as well as focusing precision. The 19-point (11 cross-point) phase detection AF sensor mounted above the translucent mirror provides high-precision focusing performance and depth detection, while the 102-point focal plane phase detection AF sensor overlaying the image sensor offers the advantages of wider depth and width coverage. Together, these sensors deliver a new level of AF performance and functionality.
* The world's first AF system in a 35mm full-frame interchangeable lens digital camera to feature two phase detection sensors as of September 12, 2012, according to Sony's internal survey.
Revolutionised with the Dual AF System
Sony's Translucent Mirror Technology replaces the swinging mirror of SLRs with a stationary translucent mirror, continuously directing light to the AF and images sensors. This innovation enables both full-time phase detection AF and full-time live view through the viewfinder and rear LCD monitor during single shot continuous and movie shooting.
Now, Translucent Mirror Technology boasts another breakthrough the Dual AF System. By simultaneously directing light towards two phase detection AF sensors, it essentially doubles the potential of autofocus great news for serious