Sony K/M question?

[Sidebyte]

Doesn't seem to be very consistant? In viewing the "specification" sheets from different reviewers I feel that some of the reviewers simply printed the specs without actually even seen or handled the cameras. i.e., one in the specs describes the camera as all plastic and the other goes to lengths to describe a magnesium body and chassis. Not having immediate access to a Sony dealership I am curious as to the actual construction of the A100. In reading another reviewers comments, he describes virtually all current DSLR's as having a basic metal chassis?

[fotogeorge]

I have handled the A100 several times in the Sony store and shot several frames on my own CF card. It is a light weight DSLR. The body is just plastic; it's not made of polycarbonate or the heavier proprietary Minolta plastic/composite material. The diagrams and cross section images that I have seen show that it only has a simple metal frame. IMHO It appears to me that it only has a steel plate along the bottom edge and maybe a perpendicular steel plate/post to anchor the components. It doesn't have a full steel chassis (full metal jacket ) like the Nikon D80, or a partial steel chassis on the 7D.

[Mr. Pickles]

It has a very similar body material and design like the Canon 300/350/400 rebel series. For people that are starting out, and people that are more careful and others, it is plenty strong enough. Getting a DSLR isn't all about the body material.

[Sidebyte]

Originally Posted by Mr. Pickles

It has a very similar body material and design like the Canon 300/350/400 rebel series. For people that are starting out, and people that are more careful and others, it is plenty strong enough. Getting a DSLR isn't all about the body material.

It's ALL about construction and material if your a KLUTZ.

[Mr. Pickles]

If you're a KLUTZ, then maybe photography isn't your thing

[Sidebyte]

Originally Posted by Mr. Pickles

If you're a KLUTZ, then maybe photography isn't your thing

Now you tell me after 60 years.

[Lin Evans]

The Alpha 100 construction is exactly as described on Steve's Digicam consisting of both Magnesium and high impact polycarbonate. It's as well made as any of the prosumer models including Nikon and Canon.

Best regards,

Lin

[Medved]

I have been using my Alpha since July and it seems sturdy. Overall, I am impressed with this machine. Even with my large hands, it is very quick to use. The battery seems to last forever, which is a good thing, and I love the multiple shots feature. I have a bunch of Minolta AF lenses from my film days and they work great. With 10 mp the resolution is very good. I produced a panorama image, 14 by 40 inches by sticking three images together in Photoshop. You can count the leaves on the trees. So far I have sold three prints. The camera paid for itself in one shoot. Overall, I like this camera.
Medved

[fjbyrne]

I have a KM 5D, A100 and A700. In order of build I would go:

A700
5D
A100

As expected the A700 has the best build of the 3. The A100 and 5D are VERY close. It is actually hard to tell which is really built better than the other. I gave it to the 5D because it feels a little heavier and gives the perception of being more solid. The A100 has seen plenty of action and taken a few minor bumps with no issues whatsoever. I think the build is fine.

[sparkie1263]

If you are a klutz you are more likely to break the lens. Get yourself a hand strap or keep the cary strap around your neck.
Frank