Just announced: New Sony Type A cards and ECM-778 Compact Supercardioid Shotgun Microphone

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Yesterday Sony announced four new products that are now finally available for preorder today:

Press text:

Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the launch of its new ECM-778 shotgun microphone, a flagship mono high-resolution model that delivers immersive, high-quality audio recordings. The ECM-778 is designed for premium audio capture in films, dramas, documentaries, and other content production environments where sound quality is critical. This professional-grade microphone provides high-fidelity audio with versatile mounting options, making it ideal for both boom poles and compatible camerai mounted setups.

In tandem, Sony is also introducing new CFexpress Type A cards—the CEA-G1920T (1920 GBii) and CEA-G960T (960 GB)—along with the MRW-G3 CFexpress Type A card reader. These products support CFexpress 4 and deliver read speeds exceeding 1800 MB/s, over twice as fast as earlier modelsiii—and a storage capacity of up to 1920 GBiv, significantly improving data transfer and workflow efficiency for users of Sony’s Cinema Line and Alpha mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.

New ECM-778 Premium Shotgun Microphone

The ECM-778 features a newly developed microphone capsule, a precision-machined brass acoustic tube, and a specifically designed electronic circuit board for superior sound quality, providing clear high frequencies and stable mid-low ranges. Measuring just 176 mm and weighing approximately only 102 g, it combines portability with excellent directivity, making it ideal for tight filming conditions.

Designed for versatility, it can be mounted on boom poles by using the supplied microphone holder and stand adapterv or directly on cameras with XLR terminals, supporting a wide range of production setups. The inclusion of foam and fur-type wind screens, a low-cut switch, and a machined aluminum body ensures reliable performance across diverse environments.

Key Features:

  • Sharp forward directivity through sound wave interference design
  • High-resolution audio capture beyond 20 kHz
  • Low-cut switch for reduced wind and handling noise
  • Durable aluminum construction
  • Compact and lightweight for handheld or mounted use
  • Professional-grade internal components for reduced noise and high fidelity

Collaboration with Film Sound Engineers

Developed in collaboration with professional film sound engineers, the ECM-778 reflects real-world insights from production environments. Renowned sound engineer Kenichi Fujimoto, winner of multiple Japan Academy Film Prizes for Best Sound Recording, remarked:

We recording engineers forge our sonic preferences over years, recording and listening to countless projects with a vast array of microphones, starting from our days as assistants. When we step into the lead role, we choose the mic that perfectly matches our cultivated taste. Right now, this is the single best choice available. In filmmaking, the shotgun mic for dialogue is the most critical tool—it’s the axis around which everything else turns. The ‘ECM-778’ is that new axis. It strikes an exceptional balance with its length and weight, its clarity and solid core deliver a palpable sound pressure, and it provides that ‘little something’ that has always been missing in other microphones. It is, simply put, a microphone that lets you create a truly cinematic sound.”

New CEA-G1920T and CEA-G960T CFexpress Type A Cards and MRW-G3 Card Reader

Sony’s new CEA-G1920T (1920 GB) and CEA-G960T (960 GB) CFexpress Type A cards meet the VPG400 standard, guaranteeing stable video recording at 400 MB/svi. Built to TOUGH specifications, these cards offer:

  • Read speeds of up to 1800 MB/s and write speeds up to 1700 MB/s
  • 5x drop resistance and 10x bend strength over standard CFexpress Type A cardsvii
  • IP57-rated dust and water resistance
  • Temperature, X-ray, anti-static, and UV resistanceviii

Accompanying these is the MRWG3 card reader, which supports USB 40 Gbps and CFexpress 4, enabling ultra-fast transfers and compatibility with most computers, smartphones, and tablets. A heat dissipation design ensures durability and sustained performance even during large transfers.

Sony remains committed to supporting professional and high-end amateur creators with advanced tools that enhance production quality and streamline workflows across varied content creation scenarios.

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Exclusive: First leaked image of the new compact Sigma 35mm f/1.2 II FE lens!

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What you see here on top is the size comparison between the “old” Sigma 35mm f/1.2 and the new version that will be announced soon. As you see the new version is more compact (I would guess around 1cm less longer) and is rumored to have a Filter Size of 72mm compared ot the older 82mm.

Still don’t know what the price will be but it could be a tiny bit more expensive than this first generation lens. Probably also because of the tariffs…and I can’t wait to read the comments about this :)

Sigma is rumored to launch a total of four new Full Frame lenses this year. And I will soon share info about those on SAR and on my youtube channel (subscribe here).

And, what do you think about this lens?

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New European “limited quantity” Amazon Prime deals on E-mount lenses

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Prime Deals:
In EU Amazon Germany, Amazon UK, Amazon France, Amazon Italy, Amazon Spain, Amazon Netherlands, Amazon Poland.
In North America Amazon US and Amazon Canada.
In Oceania at Amazon Australia.

Big new European deals today!

Today Europeans have new limited time deals on E-mount lenses (Tamron-Sigma and more) at Amazon Germany, Amazon UK, Amazon France, Amazon Italy, Amazon Spain.

Also new: 20% off on reconditioned gear sold at Amazon Germany, Amazon UK, Amazon France, Amazon Italy, Amazon Spain.

Amazon Germany direct links to deals:

Amazon UK:

Amazon France:

Amazon Italy:

Amazon Spain:

 

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Petapixel: FX2’s EVF Surprise and Master Lenses Steal the Show: Sony’s Quiet, Yet Strategic, 2025

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The PetaPixel crew+ Gordon Laing analyzed Sony’s “performance” during the first half of this year. This is a summary of their thoughts:

Since the start of 2025, Sony has taken a more measured approach—releasing fewer bodies but doubling down on key cinema features and high-end glass. Here’s how the company has quietly maintained its momentum through mid-year.

Selective Body Updates

FX2 with EVF
Sony’s first cinema-line camera to sport an integrated electronic viewfinder, the FX2 marries stills-style ergonomics with cinema-grade codec options. Built-in cooling, 4K/120 fps oversampling, and a compact form factor make it a compelling “B-cam” for run-and-gun shooters.

No A7S IV… yet
Unlike past years, Sony has held off on a refresh of its low-light flagship. Rumors of an A7S IV or A7 V slanting toward super-high ISO persist, but no official word has emerged. The lull in body launches has left many hybrid shooters eager for a true successor to Sony’s vaunted video-sensors.

Masterpiece Lenses Take Center Stage

50–150 mm F2 G Master
Sony answered a long-standing wish for a “portrait zoom” with a compact, constant-F2 tele. Reviewers praised its sharpness, fast AF, and surprisingly small footprint.

16mm F1.8 G and 400–800mm G Master
The ultra-wide, fast 16 mm prime offers unique perspective for landscapes and astro work.
The 400–800 mm adds internal zoom mechanics and pro-grade optics, putting Sony back in the super-telephoto conversation.

Wireless Grip and Power Zoom
A new three-in-one shooting grip and power-zoom adapter hint at Sony’s commitment to creator-friendly controls.

Cinema-Hybrid Ambitions

FX Line vs. Alpha Line
With the FX2 borrowing heavily from Alpha ergonomics, Sony is blurring the line between its stills and cinema divisions—leveraging its stacked-sensor expertise across both.

E-mount Ecosystem
Sony’s open E-mount continues to attract third-party innovation. Creators now enjoy a vast array of autofocus-capable lenses from Sigma, Tamron, Viltrox, and more—unmatched in the mirrorless world.

Opportunities Ahead

While Sony’s restrained 2025 body rollout earned respect for its focus on quality over quantity, a few areas could propel the next half-year toward standout success:

  • A7S IV or A7 IV Mark II: Delivering the promised ultra-high-ISO, video-forward Alpha body would reignite Sony’s hybrid-shooter fanbase.

  • Entry-level APS-C Refresh: Updating the a6700/a6100 line with newer sensors or C-Log options could energize crop-sensor enthusiasts.

  • Integrated Power Zoom Solutions: Refining the power-zoom grip into a native lens feature would streamline Sony’s run-and-gun offering.

Bottom Line

With the FX2’s EVF debut, a slate of stellar G Master lenses, and a richer third-party lens pool, Sony’s first half of 2025 has been all about strategic depth. As whispers of new Alpha bodies swirl, Sony’s hybrid community watches closely—ready for the next chapter in its mirrorless saga.

 

For comparison…here is how they graded all companies:

Camera Company Grades

Canon (B-/C+)
Focused on vlogging: V1 (fixed-lens compact), R50V (video-centric APS-C).
New lenses: 16-28mm f/2.8, 14-30mm f/4 PZ, 75-300mm (recycled DSLR design).
Criticism: No pro photo bodies, limited third-party lens support.

Nikon (A/A-)
Strong video push with Z5 II, Z8 firmware, and 28-135mm PZ cine lens.
Criticism: Still no full-frame Sigma lenses due to alleged Tamron exclusivity.

Sony (B-/C+)
Quiet first half: FX3 II, 50-150mm f/2.8, 400-800mm f/6.3-8.
Criticism: No major camera releases, stagnant APS-C support.

Panasonic (A-)
Launched S1R II (high-res), S1 II (video), and 24-60mm f/2.8 lens.
Praise: Open-gate video, firmware updates, cropless stabilization.
Criticism: Uninspiring lens designs.

Fujifilm (A/B+)
Diverse releases: X100VI, XE5, GFX100 RF, Instax Wide Evo, X half (film-sim compact).
Praise: Unique designs catering to different users.
Criticism: Autofocus still lags behind competitors.

OM System (C+)
Minor updates: OM-5 II, OM-3 (retro-styled), 100-400mm II.
Criticism: Lack of innovation, rehashing old designs.

Leica (D/L)
Only released the SL3-S (low-res cine variant).
Celebrated 100 years of M-mount with no new M camera.

Sigma (A+)
Strong lens releases: 300-600mm f/4.0, Cine line lenses. Sigma BF

Tamron (C+)
Quiet first half: 16-30mm f/2.8 G2, firmware updates for existing lenses.
Promised more lenses in late 2025/2026.

Final Thoughts

Best Performers: Fujifilm, Sigma, Nikon.
Needs Improvement: Leica, OM System, Tamron.
Upcoming Expectations: Sony A7S IV, Fujifilm X-Pro 4, Canon R7 II.

Final Grade Summary:

A/A+: Fujifilm, Sigma, Nikon.
B/B-: Panasonic, Sony, Canon.
C/C+: OM System, Tamron.
D/L: Leica.

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New Sony A7V registered in Asia: New sensor tech and price is around $3,000

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Good news is on the horizon for Sony Alpha shooters, as reliable leaks suggest that two of the next three Sony cameras, slated for release between July and October, are now almost certain. According to trusted sources, Sony will announce:

What TRUSTED sources told us about the new Sony A7V
The A7V is shaping up to be a meaningful upgrade over the A7IV. Sources indicate Sony does not plan to deliver just a minor refresh but instead a camera “worth the wait.” 

  • Release timeframe: late 2025
  • Price: Around €3,500 in Europe, and about $3,000 in the U.S.

What follow here is just a speculative list of Sony A7V specs:

  • Sensor: I am speculating it could be a new 33MP stacked sensor, or possibly a “regular” 44MP sensor, offering higher speed and better readout than the current A7IV.
  • Performance: 20 fps burst shooting, improved heat management, and enhanced video capabilities.
  • EVF: Resolution boost to ~5MP, improving on the current 3.8MP unit.
  • Other features: AI processing chip, same body and screen as the A1II.

The price increase may disappoint some, but if the rumored sensor and performance upgrades materialize, it could justify the higher cost.

The Third Camera Remains a Mystery

While the two cameras above are almost confirmed, the third remains under wraps. There is speculation it could be this cameras successor, with a possible announcement at the September IBC show in Amsterdam. Other possible candidates include updates to models like the A7SIII, A7R series, or even a new fixed-lens compact.

A Busy Year Ahead
After a quiet first half of 2025 — where competitors like Fujifilm, Nikon, and Canon made more noise — Sony appears ready to catch up with these significant releases. The A7V in particular is expected to be competitive for at least 3–4 years, so Sony can’t afford to hold back on innovation. More details about the A7V sensor and full specs are expected to leak soon, and fans are already speculating whether the upgrades will be enough to justify the price hike.

Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available — and let us know in the comments: will you be upgrading to the A7V if these specs and prices hold true?

Reminder: The Prime deals are now live on those pages at Amazon US and Amazon Canada. In Europe at Amazon Germany, Amazon UK, Amazon France, Amazon Italy, Amazon Spain, Amazon Netherlands, Amazon Poland. And at Amazon Australia.

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Today’s new Amazon USA Prime Deals: Reconditioned Sony 85mm f/1.8 for $318 only

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The Prime deals are now live on those pages at Amazon US and Amazon Canada (and alternative Summer Deals at BHphoto and Adorama .
In Europe at Amazon Germany, Amazon UK, Amazon France, Amazon Italy, Amazon Spain, Amazon Netherlands, Amazon Poland. And at Amazon Australia.

Deals not to miss:

New deals not mentioned yesterday:

Amazon US primary deals:

Detailed Storage deals:

Tamron lenses with lowest price ever

Samyang lenses with lowest price ever:

Sony NON Alpha deals with lowest price ever:

Micro Four Thirds:

L-mount:

Photography Gear Deals:

Reconditioned deals (30% applied at checkout):

 

There is a new $600 rebate running at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama.

Nextorage’s launched a new Summer Promotion at BHphoto and Amazon. Deals end on July 12:

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