The Alpha 7R V has just been introduced, as Sony’s highest-resolution image sensor in an Alpha camera. The camera which is capable of shooting 10-bit 8K videos, incorporates a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) processing unit with a 61MP sensor, and BIONZ XR Processing Engine combined, to deliver “Best-Ever Image Quality for an Alpha Body” as Sony defines it. All details are below.

Sony Alpha 7R V

Sony has just announced the Alpha 7R V (model ILCE-7RM5) as the newest R series camera in its line of Alpha mirrorless. The Alpha 7R V combines Sony’s highest resolution image sensor in an Alpha camera with a new AI (artificial intelligence) processing unit dedicated to AI-based image recognition – a first in any Alpha camera – as well as the powerful BIONZ XR image processing engine – a first in the “R” full-frame lineup. The combination of the high-resolution sensor and these processors enables new breakthroughs in subject recognition and capture for both still photography and video.

General key features

• 61MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor
• BIONZ XR & AI Processing Unit
• AI-Based Real-Time Tracking AF System
• 8K 24p, 4K 60p, FHD 120p 10-Bit Video
• 4K 16-Bit Raw Output; S-Log3/S-Cinetone
• 9.44m-Dot EVF with 120 fps Refresh Rate
• 3.2″ 4-Axis Multi-Angle Touchscreen LCD
• 10 fps Shooting with AF/AE Tracking
• 8-Stop 5-Axis Image Stabilization
• Dual CFexpress Type A/SD Card Slots

61 MegaPixels and 8K video

The new Alpha 7R V offers 61MP still images plus the 8-step image stabilization system ever offered in any of Sony’s Alpha cameras, as well as refined 8K movie recording, and a new 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor. “The newest addition to our Alpha 7R lineup is the perfect example of our relentless drive to develop industry-leading imaging technology,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “We are thrilled to introduce the all-new Alpha 7R V with high-resolution and extremely advanced AI integrations that deliver next-generation autofocus performance. We are excited to see what our community creates with the new Alpha 7R V”.

AI-based AF

Sony claims that the Alpha 7R V features next-generation AF Real-time Recognition AF, with advanced accuracy and broader subject recognition thanks to a new AI (artificial intelligence) processing unit with deep learning. The state-of-the-art AI processing uses detailed information about the human form and pose estimation to dramatically improve recognition accuracy beyond systems that only detect face and eye and make full use of its potential. Real-time Recognition AF, using AI subject recognition, has been developed to include several subject types, including animals, vehicles, and insects. The Alpha 7R V also includes focus features that support high resolution including full-time DMF (direct manual focus), and focus bracketing, a highly-requested capability that allows for focus-stacked images.

AF During Video Recording

• Real-time Eye AF is fully supported during video recording, for subject detection and tracking of human, animal, and bird eyes while shooting.
• Focus Map is a unique way of visualizing depth of field and functions in a similar way to peaking with a colorful overlay of the scene that indicates which parts of the scene are in front of and behind the focus point depending on the chosen aperture.
• A feature carried over from the FX6 digital cine camera, AF Assist lets you intuitively switch over to manual focus control for adjusting focus position when working with AF. This is a quick way to shift selective focus between various subjects in a scene while recording.

BIONZ XR image processing engine

As stated by Sony: “The Alpha 7R V was designed to deliver overwhelming detail thanks to the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine and a 35mm full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor with approximately 61.0 effective megapixels. The latest BIONZ XR image processing engine ensures that the resolution potential of the camera’s sensor is fully utilized to deliver the highest resolution at low sensitivity in the Alpha series thus far. This enables sensitivity settings from ISO 100 to ISO 32000 for both stills and movies and wide dynamic range with 15 stops for stills”.

Updated stabilization system

According to Sony, the Alpha 7R V’s entire image stabilization system has been updated with a high-precision image stabilization unit, advanced gyro sensors, and optimized image stabilization algorithms for stills and video. In addition to the 8-step compensation effect for stills, the new stabilization algorithm provides precise detection and control right down to the single-pixel level, taking full advantage of the sensor’s 61.0-megapixel resolution potential to bring out the finest subject details. Sony’s newest camera also offers upgraded Pixel Shift Multi Shooting, which takes advantage of the precision in-body image stabilization system control, capturing multiple pixel-shifted images that are later composited using a computer to achieve overwhelming resolution in a single image. Using the latest version of Imaging Edge Desktop Ver.3.5 computer application, small pixel-level movements, such as a shift in the subject’s position or leaves on a tree, are automatically detected and corrected for optimized compositing can be achieved. 16-image composites with approximately 240.8 million pixels (19,008 x 12,672 pixels) can be produced from data that is equivalent to approximately 963.2 million pixels. Unfortunately, it’s not mentioned how this enhanced stabilization acts in video mode.

Video Capabilities

The Alpha 7R V camera delivers 8Ki 24/25p video, 4K videos oversampled from 6.2K without binning, a high-efficiency MPEG-H HEVC/H.265 codec, all intra-recording, 10-bit 4:2:2 recording, and more. It also includes evolved subject recognition for unprecedented real-time tracking reliability, breathing compensation, and the ability to use camera metadata for post-processing and advanced in-body image stabilization. In addition to in-body Active mode image stabilization for smoother on-the-go recording, the Alpha 7R V is compatible with select lenses that include built-in image stabilization for even more stable framing and smooth footage.

Key highlights of video recording:

• UHD 8K 24p and UHD 4K 60p XAVC HS 10-bit video recording is possible using the full width of the sensor with full pixel readout for impressive sharpness and realism.
• If using a Super 35 crop, full pixel readout recording is possible at up to UHD 4K at frame rates up to 30p or 6.2K oversampling can be used for greater sharpness and detail.
• Internal 10-bit 4:2:2 sampling is possible at up to 4K 60p in XAVC HS and XAVC S-I and, if recording externally via the full-size HDMI A port, 16-bit raw output can be used for improved tonal reproduction and post-production flexibility.
• Raw output is supported at up to 4K 60p and simultaneous internal 4K recording is possible, too.

Structure and usability

The Alpha 7R V includes a new 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor that combines the utility of a conventional tilting monitor with side-opening vari-angle flexibility and an electronic viewfinder with 9.44 million dots. The Alpha 7R V also includes two CFexpress Type A/SDXC compatible media slots and a brand-new menu system with touch control and a wide range of customizable functions. Furthermore, data can be transferred at high speed over Wi-Fi (802.11ac) 2×2 MIMO or a wired SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps connection via a USB-C port. In addition to allowing efficient remote shooting as well as still and movie file transfers, new USB streaming features support UVC/UAC, allowing direct streaming from the camera even in 4K (QFHD) resolution with audio as well.

Durability

Sony adds that, based on feedback from professionals, the Alpha 7R V includes improved heat dissipation for extended recording times, upgraded dust and moisture-resistant design, a durable magnesium alloy chassis, and other refinements for maximum reliability in challenging working environments. Moreover, The Alpha 7R V is also compatible with the new PCK-LG3 Screen Protect Glass Sheet, which maintains touch sensitivity while protecting the LCD monitor against stains and fingerprints. Watch the Alpha 7R V announcement below:

Pricing and Availability

The new Alpha 7R V will begin shipping in December and is available for approximately $3,900 USD and $5,300 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America. Explore the Product Links at the end of the article. Furthermore, below you can find Alpha 7R V sample videos of 4K and 8K: 

Summary

The Alpha 7R V incorporates some improved technologies, however, there’s no new announcement here regarding video capabilities. Another day, another camera. Don’t get us wrong, the Alpha 7R V seems like a solid choice that sits under the Alpha One and with a much more affordable price tag. Also, the camera is defined as the new generation of the Alpha line. But video-wise, there’s nothing to be excited about here..it’s just a new mirrorless. The main feature is the AI-based AF, but besides the impressive headline, it needs to compete in a real-world situation, against the excellent AF ability of the mighty rival, Canon. So, would you buy this camera? 

Product List

Here’re the products mentioned in the article, and the links to purchase them from authorized dealers. 

• Sony a7R V Mirrorless Camera
  • BUY on B&H