New firmware update for the Sony A9II and Sony A7III

Sony issued new firmware updates for the Sony A9II (download it here) and Sony A7III (download it here).

A7III Benefits and Improvements

IMPORTANT: When you update to this version, FTP transfer setting will be initialized. Please reconfigure after the update.

  • Adds new features of FTP transfer
    • Allows you to transfer still images during shoot and playback operations.
    • Adds the following FTP transfer functions:
      • Allows you to narrow down the transfer target, such as protected images or non-transferred images, and transfer the images together as a batch.
      • Allows you to transfer only the image being played back by pressing the custom key.
      • Allows you to transfer all images automatically while shooting.
      • Allows you to select the setting to transfer both RAW file and JPEG taken in RAW+JPEG format to an FTP server.
    • Update the destination folder configuration.
      • Allows you to register up to nine FTP servers. (Previous was up to 3)
      • Allows you to change the destination folder configuration on the FTP server:
        • Save image data directly under the folder that you choose.
        • Register the media card slot number in the folder configuration.
        • Register the folder configuration same as your camera.
      • Improved operability of FTP transfer function.
        • Allows you to set items under Server Setting by using the smartphone application Transfer & Tagging add-on.
  • Improves the overall stability of the camera.

 

A9 II Benefits and Improvements

IMPORTANT: When you update to this version, the camera settings will be reinitialized. Because of this, we recommend that you save the current settings before updating. You can use the Save/Load Settings function to save the current settings to a memory card and write them back after the update.

NOTE: For details on how to save the settings and the items that can be saved, refer to Save/Load Settings in the Help Guide.

  • Adds the Crop function to allow you to crop a recorded still image
  • Adds the Forced File No. Reset option in the File/Folder Settings (still image) menu to allow you to reset the still image file number and create a new folder
  • Other improvements
    • It is improved the phenomenon that some functions are not registered correctly in the Function menu
    • Improves the overall stability of the camera

Sony Electronics Announces the ECM-W2BT Wireless Microphone and the ECM-LV1 Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone

Like I told you weeks ago today Sony did indeed announced the new ECM-W2BT Wireless Microphone (here on BHphoto) and the ECM-LV1 Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone (here on BHphoto). This means my next rumors will be correct too! On March 16 we will get the new 50mm f/1.2 GM and on March 23 other new FE lenses!

Press text:

Sony Electronics Announces the ECM-W2BT Wireless Microphone and the ECM-LV1 Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone

Provides High-quality and Stable Audio Recording for Vloggers, YouTubers and Video Creators

SAN DIEGO, CA – March 9, 2021 – Sony Electronics Inc. today announced two new microphones with the launch of the ECM-W2BT Multi-nterface shoe compatible wireless microphone and ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone. Wireless high-quality audio recording with lower noise and stable connection is possible with the ECM-W2BT wireless microphone, especially when paired with the ECM-LV1 stereo lavalier microphone and one of Sony’s cameras[i] with digital compatibility. This combination offers the perfect solution to meet the needs of today’s vloggers, YouTubers and video creators who want to capture clear, reliable audio for a wide range of environments including street performance, product reviews, food reviews travel vlogs and more.The ECM-W2BT wireless microphone enables low-noise digital sound recording by connecting the receiver to a camerai equipped with a digital audio interface compatible Multi Interface Shoe. The digital audio signal output from the receiver can be recorded directly on the camera body without wiring an external audio cable. Additionally, the ECM-W2BT has been completely redesigned for high sound quality using an advanced omni-directional mic capsule to capture clear sound recording from any direction. The ECM-W2BT also allows audio recording flexibility by increasing the stability of the wireless connection between microphone and receiver, even with obstacles or in crowded environments with additional wireless activity. In locations with good visibility, communication is possible at up to 200m, significantly increasing the flexibility of audio recording. And the newly adopted Qualcomm® aptX™ Low Latency[ii] codec provides both high-quality audio recording and low latency.The ECM-W2BT wireless microphone also offers ultimate creative freedom thanks to its sound acquisition functions. Three sound pick up modes – MIC mode, MIX mode and a new RCVR mode – allows the user to record sound and ambient sound based on their desired preference. MIC mode will only pick up audio from the microphone transmitter so only the subject audio is captured. RCVR mode only picks up sound from the internal microphone at the receiver, so the user can record audio of themselves. MIX mode picks up both transmitter and receiver audio which is useful when audio from both the subject and the user is desired. The ECM-W2BT mic supports stereo audio input and an external 3.5mm stereo mini-jack to allow for stereo sound pickup, so it can be used in combination with the stereo-capable lavalier microphone such as the ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone, as an unobtrusive microphone that can easily attach to the subject’s clothing and record sound with increased realism. Since the receiver is equipped with 3.5mm audio output, the ECM-W2BT can be used without Multi Interface shoe model cameras.For challenging recording environments, the ECM-W2BT wireless microphone includes an attenuator function. The user can select one of three attenuator levels depending on the sound source volume to record excessively loud sounds at a lower volume or amplify quieter sounds to record louder audio. The ECM-W2BT also includes a windscreen to reduce wind noise, which is especially helpful when recording outdoors. When longer operation is needed, the battery assist function via the power supply from the camera’s Multi Interface shoe enables the user to operate the receiver for up to 9 hours[iii]. For easy reference, the ECM-W2BT includes a LINK lamp to notify the user of the status of the communication between the microphone and the receiver and a POWER lamp to easily check the remaining battery charge. Besides, a connector protect holder for multi-interface foot cover is provided, which can be used to carry the receiver and microphone as one unit or can also be used as a microphone stand, for stable microphone positioning during interviews or other stationary uses.The ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone also allows for high-quality sound pickup paired with a compact design for easy carrying and convenience while shooting. The ECM-LV1 includes a windscreen for additional noise reduction, and the 360-degree rotatable clip allows, for example, horizontal attachment to a necktie, or vertical attachment to a pocket, with the microphone attached at the same angle. The power of this mic is supplied from the mic connector.

The ECM-W2BT wireless microphone will be available in April 2021 for approximately $230.00 USD and $300.00 CAD. The ECM-LV1 compact stereo lavalier microphone will also be available in April 2021 for approximately $30.00 USD and $40.00 CAD. These microphones will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

For detailed product information, please visit:

Sony A1 now shipping out in the USA!

Preorders:
Sony A1 at BHphoto. Adorama. Amazon. Focuscamera.
Sony XPeria 5G PRO at BHphoto. Adorama. Amazon.
Sony A1 in Europe at FotoErhardt DE. Calumet DE. Fotokoch DE. Park UK. WexUK.
Join the Sony A1 Facebook group here.

Today the Sony A1 preorders started to ship out in the USA. And Dpreview published the initial review with the following key takeaways:

  • JPEGs retain very high levels of detail at both low and high ISOs
  • Noise reduction strikes a slightly different balance compared to the a7R IV, opting to reduce more luminance noise at the slight cost of fine detail as light levels drop
  • Colors are improved: richer yellows, less magenta-tainted blues, warmer greens
  • Class-leading Raw dynamic range compared to professional action / sports cameras
  • Almost class-leading dynamic range compared to high-resolution full-frame peers
  • ISO invariant over two ranges: 100-400, 500-102,400

Sony also presented the new A1 sensor at the ISSCC 2021 (More info ay Image Sensor World).

Impressive: Sony just announced a medium format 128MP global shutter sensor!

This is impressive folks! Sony announced a 128MP global shutter sensor. The sensor has a 56.73mm diagonal which is about the size of the sensor used by “large format” Fuji GF cameras like the new GFX100. Sony writes the sensor is designed for industrial use but I guess it could be easily find it’s way in cameras too (maybe in modified version).

For us E-mount owners it also means that maybe a FF Full Frame Global Shutter might not be far out! Here is the press text:
—

Sony to Release Large Format CMOS Image Sensor with Global Shutter Function and Industry’s Highest Effective Pixel Count of 127.68 Megapixels

Delivering Increased Pixel Count, High-Speed Imaging Performance, and Contributing to Solutions in the Field of Advanced, Diversified Industrial Equipment

Tokyo, Japan — Sony Corporation announced today the upcoming release of a large format 56.73mm diagonal CMOS image sensor “IMX661” for industrial equipment with a global shutter function and the industry’s highest*1 effective pixel count of 127.68 megapixels.*2

This product features an increased pixel count that yields an optical size nearly 10 times larger than the common 1.1-type image sensor corresponded to the C mount*3 for industrial equipment. It also features Sony’s original global shutter pixel technology “Pregius™”, which enables capture of motion distortion-free images. Furthermore, the Sony’s original device configuration and interface technology employed enable high-speed image readout at a data rate nearly four times faster*4 than conventional products.

Sony expects that the new sensor, when used in industrial equipment cameras for a wide variety of applications, will help to solve a variety of complex challenges, thereby contributing to the development of industry.

  • *1Among CMOS image sensors equipped with a global shutter. According to Sony research (as of announcement on March 9, 2021).
  • *2Based on image sensor effective pixel specification method.
  • *3The joining mechanism between lens and the camera body.
  • *4Compared to Sony’s “IMX253” 1.1 type, 12.37 effective megapixels CMOS image sensor equipped with a global shutter function.
IMX661 CMOS Image Sensor (left: color model, right: black and white model)IMX661 CMOS Image Sensor (left: color model, right: black and white model)
Pregius
Model name Sample shipment date (planned)*5
IMX661 3.6 type (56.73 mm diagonal) 127.68-effective-megapixel CMOS image sensor April 2021
  • ※5The dates given for sample shipment date (planned) are for the color model. Black and white model samples will be available for shipment approximately one month later.

Needs for automation, labor-saving and other benefits of digital transformation continue to grow in recent years in various fields of industrial equipment. This has accelerated the adoption of cameras for a wide variety of applications, driving demand for CMOS image sensors with higher imaging performance.

The new product couples Sony’s Pregius technology with the 3.6-type (56.73mm diagonal) large optical size, delivering an increased pixel count and motion distortion-free imaging. The original device configuration, which employs a chip-on-wafer process, together with Sony’s original interface technology, enables high-speed readout nearly four times faster than conventional products*4 in full-pixel readout mode. This design delivers highly efficient imaging that captures a wide viewing angle with no motion distortion in a single imaging operation. It also improves recognition precision thanks to the high-resolution imaging and delivers a high level of processing performance. It can contribute to solutions for a variety of industrial equipment applications, for example, inspection processes for production of displays and electronic substrates, wide-area monitoring, and aerial photography, where its improved precision and quicker readout will help meet the need for a high level of productivity.

Main Features

The industry’s highest effective pixel count of 127.68 megapixels

This product features a large optical size of 3.6-type (56.73mm diagonal), nearly 10 times larger than the common 1.1-type image sensor corresponded to the C mount lens for industrial equipment with a pixel size of 3.45 μm, resulting in a massive pixel count of 127.68 megapixels, which is the industry’s highest for a CMOS image sensor equipped with a global shutter. It enables a wide viewing angle and high-resolution imaging by increased pixel count, and the motion distortion-free imaging demanded on cameras for industrial equipment, thereby improving imaging efficiency and recognition precision.

Image sensor optical size (imaging area) comparisonImage sensor optical size (imaging area) comparison*6, area ratio about 10 times (1.1-type comparison)
*6: When a lens with the same focal length is used

High-speed image readout

Generally, increased pixel count means increased signal processing volume, which causes issues such as a drop in frame rate and longer readout times. In order to realize high-speed readout, it is necessary to improve the processing functionality of the AD converter which converts the analog signal output from the pixel to digital signals, and at the same time, increase the speed of the output interface.
This product features Sony’s original device configuration employing a chip-on-wafer process where chips with certain functions are stacked on top of the pixel wafer, allowing for optimal positioning of the AD converter. This design improves AD converter processing functionality without increasing the size.
The new sensor also employs the Scalable Low Voltage Signaling with Embedded Clock (SLVS-EC™)*7 high-speed interface standard developed by Sony, in order to make output interface faster. These two original technologies enable 127.68 megapixels,10bits,21.8fps, which is a high-speed output data rate nearly four times faster than conventional models*4.The dramatic increase in multi-pixel and readout speed greatly contribute to the improvement of productivity in industrial applications.

Device configuration using chip-on-wafer processDevice configuration using chip-on-wafer process
  • *7A data transfer method that uses an embedded clock signal. This eliminates the need for skew adjustment between lanes and reduces the amount of wiring needed, making board design simpler and suitable for higher speeds.

Equipped with signal processing capabilities needed for a variety of industrial applications

The new product is equipped with a range of signal processing capabilities required for industrial equipment CMOS image sensors to meet diverse applications and needs. These include such as; trigger synchronization for controlling imaging timing during high-speed inspections; Region of Interest (ROI), which reduces post signal processing load by only reading out the required regions; gradation compression, which reduces data volume while outputting required information; multi-exposure, which is capable of detecting the trajectory of moving objects; short exposure time for blur-free imaging of objects moving at high speeds; pixel binning readout, which can enhance sensitivity in low luminance situations.

Key Specifications

Model name IMX661 (color, black and white)
Unit cell size 3.45 μm x 3.45 μm (H x V)
Effective pixels 13,400 x 9,528 (H x V), 127.68 megapixels
Image size Diagonal 56.73 mm (3.6-type)
Active area 46.2 mm x 32.9 mm (H x V)
Package Ceramic LGA
Micro lens EPD -100mm (CRA 15.8 degrees)
Power supply Analog: 3.3V
Digital: 1.2V
Interface: 1.8V
Output 4.7Gbps/lane SLVS-EC 16/8/4 lane
891Mbps/lane SLVS 16 lane
Frame rate 14 bit: 12.9 fps
12 bit: 19.6 fps
10 bit: 21.8 fps
Main functions Global shutter, trigger synchronization, ROI, gradation compression, multi-exposure, short exposure, pixel binning readout
  • Notes:Pregius and SLVS-EC are trademarks of Sony Corporation.