More Buzz From The Sony Alpha Rumor Mill

Sony showed two DSLR prototypes at PMA at Las Vegas back in March. According to recent reports on the rumor mill Sony plans to release one of these cameras by the end of 2007, and the second model by March of 2008. Two months ago the expected flagship ‘Pro’ model was spotted alongside the code name 'CX62500', while the ‘prosumer’ camera was labeled 'CX62300'. The code names were inadvertently revealed in a display case at a Sony conference held in Rhodes, Greece. But Sony won’t reveal which model will be released first nor will they provide any official model names or specs.

The larger model with bulky prism head is probably Sony’s attempt at a full-frame sensor ‘Pro’ model, but again, that is only speculation. The other model pictured is probably a ‘prosumer’ version. But at least both look to have an available vertical grip, and probably PC connection. Hopefully they will have at least 12MP sensors. Neither of the pictured models has the dual control knob configuration that I like so much about the Minolta Maxxum 7 and 7D cameras.

Since Sony continues to refuse to release official information, all we can do is wait and speculate. Meanwhile by waiting so long to release additional models and accessories, will Sony lose too much valuable market share to the current big dogs on the porch, Nikon and Canon, for anyone to care? By the time Sony gets around to releasing something beyond the entry level Alpha 100, former Konica Minolta users may have already jumped ship to the competition. The high prices for current Sony lenses won’t help either. I can't help but think that Sony's current strategy won't improve their standing as a niche camera line, much like Konica Minolta became in recent years.