The DSC-R1's 10.3 megapixel CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor offers one of the highest resolutions among professional-grade image sensors. The CMOS sensor delivers extraordinary resolution, high sensitivity to light, and lower image noise or graininess.

An added benefit of the CMOS technology is its live preview that lets you evaluate scene conditions before taking a shot.

“Prior to the DSC-R!, the extraordinary power consumption of CMOS sensors has made live preview almost impossible But because of the DSC-R1's revolutionary Real Imaging Processor, image-processing speed is increased, even as power consumption is reduced,” said Kristine Villanueva, Sony Philippines' marketing Supervisor for the Cyber-shot.

The DSC-R1 consumes up to 70 percent less power than Sony's previous processing circuitry, allowing up to 500 shots per charge.

The DSC-R1's CMOS image sensor's live preview also permits the DSC-R1 to do away with the mirror box and prism arrangement of a traditional SLR and instead have a more compact body design. Thus, the DSC-R1 can incorporate an extraordinary wide field view and zoom range, to suit whatever your photography needs may be. The 24mm wide end of the lens is particularly suited for architectural photography, landscapes and large-group portraits, while the 120mm telephoto end is perfect for filling the frame with distant subjects.

“The absence of the mirror box and prism also means the DSC-R1 is more quiet than other SLR cameras. This is ideal for those looking to take photographs without destroying the ambience of the environment,” said Villanueva.

Amateurs Going PRO!

Despite all these amateur-friendly conveniences, the DSC-R1 still delivers professional-quality photographs. The camera has 24-120mm equiv. ultra-wide Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens, the gold standard in imaging lenses optimally designed for the CMOS image sensor. The DSC-R1 also boasts of the Advanced Gradation Control System (AGCS) which optimizes image contrast, in order to avoid “blown out” highlights in high-contrast scenes and “crushed” blacks in low-contrast ones. The AGCS also evaluates the distribution of brightness and then automatically applies the appropriate gamma curve to achieve better pictures.

The DSC-R1 also has a Clear RAW NR feature that reduces color and luminance noise, enabling shooting of clear images with significantly high sensitivity using a selectable ISO sensitivity mode (up to ISO 3200). This especially benefits users when they shoot in low-light conditions, or when shooting moving objects.

The DSC-R1 also offers three different modes of color reproduction: Adobe RGB used for professional graphics and offset color printing, Standard sRGB for most computer-based uses, and Vivid sRGB for more intense primary colors.

You can also enjoy the added convenience of storing images onto Memory Stick PRO media, as well as CompactFlash Type I and Type II or Microdrive media, or connecting your camera directly to a compatible printer with its PictBridge USB direct terminal.-