DSC-TX9
Sony keeps up its push to bring 3D to the home. Sony today unveiled two new Cyber-shot digital still cameras that are the world’s smallest 3D cameras, capturing 3D images with a single lens system using a sweeping motion.
Both models offer a 3D Sweep Panorama feature, which lets you take panoramic pictures in one press-and-sweep motion. The high-speed burst of frames is stitched together using innovative processing techniques to automatically create detail-packed 3D panoramas. These images can be enjoyed in 2D or stunning 3D on compatible 3D televisions (3D-compatible HDMI cables and 3D glasses are also required and are sold separately.)
DSC-WX5
The DSC-TX9, which has a 3.5-inch 921K resolution LCD touchscreen, and the DSC-WX5, which has a 2.8-inch LCD screen, also let you view images in a whole new way. Unlike 3D Sweep Panorama mode, which lets you view your 3D images on compatible 3D television systems, Sweep Multi Angle lets you view images moving in simulated 3D right on the cameras’ LCD screen by tilting the camera back and forth. This new shooting feature captures 15 images at different angles and then compiles them into one photo, creating a 3D-like effect on the display.
In addition to Sweep Multi Angle, the 12.2 megapixel TX9 and WX5 models offer new features including Background Defocus, which simulates depth of field control and Superior Auto mode, which provides low image-noise levels previously only available from DSLR cameras.
The Natural Flash feature also improves image quality and captures colors the way the eye sees them. This feature takes a reference shot without flash and then uses that as a color reference correction, resulting in more lifelike images.
Full HD Video
With the AVCHD format, used in Sony’s high-definition Handycam camcorders, the models can record movies in 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolutions in 60i at up to 17Mbps for smooth movement during playback. They can also capture videos in the MP4 format (up to 1440 x1080 30p 12Mbps) for online sharing.
In addition to its AVCHD video capability, the TX9 and WX5 cameras have Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, helping overcome camera shake.
With a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 4x zoom lens, the compact TX9 camera lets you focus as little as 0.4 inches from your subject for extraordinary close-up shots. The 4x (25-100mm) wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing a wider view of your subject at closer distances.
Pricing and Availability
The cameras and a range of accessories will be available in September online at Sonystyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores, at military base exchanges and at authorized dealers nationwide.
The TX9 will be available for about $400 in dark gray and red. The WX5 will be available for about $300 in silver and black.
