Sony Alpha NEX-5N Preview

Preview based on a pre-production NEX-5N with firmware 01

The Sony Alpha NEX-5N is the fourth model in Sony's NEX line of APS-C format mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. Like the NEX-C3, the 5N is a direct replacement for its predecessor the NEX-5, using the company's latest 16.1MP CMOS sensor in place of the previous 14MP chip. Although the 5N is nearly indistinguishable from the NEX-5 on the outside (and is bound to be regarded as such by many casual observers), it is actually a very different camera, and one that is worthy of serious attention.

The two most significant changes to the NEX-5N compared to the NEX-5 are its new sensor, which we have been very impressed by in the NEX-C3, and the addition of a touch interface. When images of the first NEX cameras appeared, many people assumed their lack of buttons indicated touch-sensitive operation, so it's interesting to see a touchscreen finally appearing on the 5N.

While the NEX-3 and 5 were close siblings, differentiated mostly by styling and HD video capability, the NEX-5N and NEX-C3 are more like cousins. The 5N has a wider ISO range, spanning 100 - 25600 and adds support for the new FDA-EV1S electronic viewfinder, which may provide it gain appeal with enthusiast shooters. Like the co-announced NEX-7, the 5N also offers the option of using an electronic first-curtain shutter that promises to substantially reduce shutter lag. Furthermore, when paired with native E-mount lenses, it gains the capability to compensate for certain optical aberrations (namely lateral CA, vignetting and distortion - each of which can be turned on or off at the user's discretion).

Even with the addition of these enthusiast-friendly features the 5N still retains its appeal to compact upgraders. The same iAuto and Photo Creativity modes from the C3 are available on the 5N, along with a generous helping of the 'Picture Effects' creative processing options, available in PASM modes. In the previous NEX models, ISO sensitivity in iAuto mode was limited to 1600, somewhat negating one of the best features offered by these cameras over compacts - the low light capability of the larger sensor. The NEX-5N still has a fixed maximum ISO setting in iAuto, but it has at least been increased to 3200. A welcome change, but we'd still like to see the entire ISO sensitivity range made available.

Sony NEX-5N specification highlights Touch-screen display Electronic First Curtain shutter Revised 16.1MP CMOS sensor ISO 100-25600 10fps continuous shooting mode (at full resolution) In-camera CA, vignetting and distortion correction Auto ISO limit of 3200 Creative Control results-orientated user interface Picture Effects processing options 1080p 60p HD movies in AVCHD format Compared to the NEX-5

The NEX-5N is almost identical to the 5 in terms of form, but there have been some significant changes made to its function. The 5N's new stand-out feature is the introduction of a touchscreen that provides alternative access the the camera's operational controls, as well as adding few additional features that take advantage of this input method.

View the Original article