GEAR
GROUP TEST
the need for speed. However, that frame rate is only with certain Sony lenses and with Compressed Raw or HEIF files. To shoot Uncompressed Raw or Lossless Compressed Raw, the max frame rate is 20fps – still plenty fast enough for most users. To achieve maximum detail, the Pixel Shift setting takes four or 16 Raw shots, which are then combined into a 200-megapixel image afterwards in Sony software. It’s amazing versatility like this and pretty much no compromises that make the Sony A1 II such a great mirrorless camera. Unless you have extremely specific needs, then it’s more camera than most creators will ever need. GIMBAL KING A compact body makes the Sony A1 II ideal for stabilisers (left). The new menu system is improved, but still relatively complex
on once again. The AF system can be customised for smooth focus racking, allowing the focus speed to be adjusted from fast to slow, as well as how sticky it is before searching for a new subject. This performs well in both bright and low light. Touch-to-focus on the rear screen locks onto an object as it moves, but you must tap the screen to initialise the focus. Of course, the stacked sensor and superfast processors mean that there is zero viewfinder lag or blackout: the only way to shoot stills of sports and fast-moving action to rival an optical viewfinder. The electronic viewfinder is improved and, despite the tilting and folding screen, the camera is well weather sealed. But with all this techno wizardry inside, you’ll need at least one spare battery for a full day of shooting. The camera boasts a pair of UHS- II SD card slots that also accept the new CFexpress Type A cards, which you’ll need to invest in to shoot 4K/120p, S&Q, All-Intra codecs and 240fps in HD. You can actually record 8K on V60-rated SD cards. Its stills performance is amazing, with studio-quality files when you need them and high-resolution files at up to 30fps when you feel
“With all this techno wizardry inside, you’ll need at least one spare battery for a full day of shooting”
THE VERDICT
TIPA RATING Video image quality: 85 Photo image quality: 77
Sony reaffirms that mirrorless cameras should be portable, even with its flagships. While Nikon and Canon opt for large, pro DSLR-style bodies, Sony keeps things compact. For extra battery life or better vertical shooting, an optional battery grip offers an affordable solution. The benefit of being able to strip the camera down to something smaller and lighter means it’ll work better on gimbals. The A1 II builds on its predecessor with significant improvements in handling and AF, all while maintaining its image quality. It topped our TIPA tests for stills and video. While improved handling makes it ideal for video use – fitting nicely into rigs and gimbal set-ups – pro stills shooters who prefer a deep-grip, DSLR-style design may lean towards Canon or Nikon. For E-mount users, the A1 II remains the best option.
HOW IT RATES Features: 9 Has it all except for waveform monitoring or internal Raw Performance: 10 Amazing video and photos from a camera that covers all bases Handling: 9 Handling improvements pay dividends Value for money: 8 It’s the price of camera and media that holds it back PRO MOVIEMAKER OVERALL RATING: 9/10 A stunning all-round camera that just about does the lot Pros: 10-bit 4:2:2 4K/120p, 240fps HD and 30fps stills Cons: No internal Raw recording
More information
sony.co.uk
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