Sony has announced the A9 II, which is designed for sports and fast-moving subjects. The Sony A9 II retains the same stacked 24-megapixel full-frame sensor as its predecessor, the A9, and can shoot at 20 frames-per-second without blackout when using the electronic shutter.

The A9 II also retains the A9’s much-lauded 693-point phase-detection AF system, which also includes 425 contrast AF points. It also incorporates Sony’s Real-Time Eye-AF, Real-Time Tracking, and Fast Hybrid Focusing modes.

But the important changes have come to the design and connectivity options, both of which have been upgraded to fit the special demands of professionals in fast-moving situations. The overall build is similar to that of the just-announced a7R IV, including superior weather sealing.

Upgraded BIONZ X™ image processing engine gains maximum benefit from the sensor’s fast readout speed; processor works with front-end LSI to enhance speed in AF/AE detection, image processing, face detection and accuracy, and more.

In terms of connectivity, it has a built-in 1000BASE-T Ethernet terminal for high-speed data transfer. File Transfer over SSL or TLS is also supported. The Ethernet LAN port now supports 1 gigabyte per second transfers, 10 times faster than the original model. There's support for both 2.4 and 5 GHz WiFi, and the USB-C port has been upgraded to support 3.2 Gen.1 high-speed transfers and greatly improved remote shooting.

In terms of ergonomics, the a9II has a slightly larger grip and improved weather-sealing compared to the original. The rear control dial now resides on the top plate. Shooters can lock the EV comp button to prevent accidental exposure changes, and the AF-On button and multi-selector joystick are larger. Both SD card slots now support UHS-II speeds and the camera can draw power through its USB Type C port. The in-body Image Stabilization has been improved as well.

The A9 II features a new Voice Memo function that allows spoken information to be attached to images in the form of voice memos that can be replayed when the images are reviewed. The voice data can also be included with images sent to an editor, giving them important information needed for effective editing.

An improved processor gives users greater efficiency, allowing a bit longer battery life on this model when using the current NP-FZ100 Battery Pack. This will now provide up to 500 shots on a single charge when using the EVF or 690 with the rear LCD. Of course, you can always add to the battery life by using the VG-C4EM Battery Grip or NPA-MQZ1K Multi Battery Adapter.

The Alpha 9 II will ship in November for around $4,500 (body only).

Source: Sony Camera