The Sony a1 II ISN'T What We Expected!

[@Avinash-wg7xl]

As days goes by, my respect for Nikon z8 z9 keeps increasing

[@GlaciaDay]

Ikr? Cannot believe Z9 is still a bargain 3 years after the release.

[@niccollsvideo]

I’m glad the Z8 is doing so well and it deserves it. I hope the r5 mkII takes off in the same way.

[@sreejanspov]

Wait until Z8II and Z9II came out.. they'll disappoint us just like the Z50II, A1II, R1, R5II

[@daniellove162]

@@sreejanspov- I like how your only hope for discrediting a BEAST of a camera is hoping the future iteration is not as good. Im betting a Z9 II will be a great RED B-cam.

[@tennissir1986]

I have no favorite brand - but the R5 Mk2 is better than Z8/9.

[@leanderhoefler]

I unofficially preordered the camera at my local store, because I thought the A1 II was finally the ultimate hybrid camera. I don‘t care much about the minor improvements for photo, because the A1 was already rock solid there. But subsampled 4K is a complete dealbreaker for that kind of money and class of camera.

[@jammaschan]

Who even buys an a1 for video?

[@Matti6950]

@@jammaschan People who always want to be able to take high ress image but also take good video. For instance i'm considering upgrading from Sony A7RV for better video and photo frame rate etc.

[@leanderhoefler]

@@jammaschan Well I would have - pretty much every job I do is photos and videos. So while I always carry 2 bodies at least, it would have been nice to have one that can do both on a high level - like a R5II or a Z8 Especially since Sony also advertises that camera as „the one“ that can do it all. And I‘m okay with not having 8k60fps or internal RAW recording. But not offering detailed, clean 4K recording of any kind in a 7.500€ camera in (almost) 2025 is insane.

[@jammaschan]

@@Matti6950 you can't tell me 8k 30 and 4k120 isn't enough for video. Sure it's subsampled but it's a photo first camera. The fx3 shoots in bascially non oversampled 4k anyways, so same res as the subsampled 4k here (yes bigger sensor site for the fx3 and all that but cmon)

[@jammaschan]

@@leanderhoefler then get the r5ii or the z8

[@bailey.nt86]

0:46 if you stand any closer the that police van with that stache, they might just offer you a job 😂

[@icedude52895]

Literally just update my A1 firmware the rest is just ....underwhelming

[@bluehonour02]

your firmware can't update the IBIS, the AI chip (or the lack of it), the shooting bufferq the vlogging features etc. People should understand not everything can be implemented as firmware update.

[@topg2820]

@@bluehonour02 IBIS in the video looks meh, people have taken great pics even without AI, you can buy a cheap screen or mount your phone for vlogging, shooting buffering can be added with update, etc. so basically even those 'hardware' features you are boasting about are underwhelming

[@NikonDave]

Sorry your first NFL shooting experience had to be the Jets. 😀

[@obsidian00]

🤣🤣🤣

[@niccollsvideo]

It was still an awesome experience and the game was quite close. But yea, I’m hearing that a lot.

[@ReDevilJR]

@@niccollsvideo I wish you could've gotten the Bills/Chiefs game! Tailgate included.

[@niccollsvideo]

@ Not being able to hang out at the tailgate parties was the biggest regret of this trip. Everyone looked like they were having so much fun!

[@scottchiang7616]

@@NikonDave NY Jets’ the reason for America being the greatest country in the world (Will McAvoy, 2012)

[@jonasgillmann]

I can't believe that 4K recording is still subsampled or line skipped and not 8K oversampled like in the Nikon Z8 (8.3K oversampled 4K60p) or in the R5 (4K Fine oversampled from 8K up to 30p). The only oversampled 4K mode in the a1 II is the cropped APS-C mode. A flagship should be able to record full-width 8K oversampled 4K60p or at the very least 30p!

[@CallMeRabbitzUSVI]

If they did that then Nikon will source their sensors from another manufacturer. Since they use Sony sensors they need to have an edge on Sony cameras, which is most likely an agreement between them

[@silva_br1]

​​@@CallMeRabbitzUSVI this does not exist. Nikon is just client of SSS. Nothing to do with what Sony EM&S ( eletronics) does or does not. Sony has videocameras too, nikon does not. Then no need to avoid taking sales of videocameras

[@bamboojled8919]

@@silva_br1 Nikon owns RED

[@itsDesTV]

have you commented this on every a1 video? 😂

[@jonasgillmann]

@@itsDesTV Yes, because it really bothers me. I can't believe that Sony still doesn't offer full-width oversampled 4K. Sony is behind in terms of video recording.

[@markwang77]

memory lane: i remember your 'mirrorless autofocus shootout' video done several years ago. at the conclusion of the video, you had posited that mirrorless cameras will one day outperform DSLRs in autofocus performance and capabilities. oh how far we've progressed in terms of camera tech 👏

[@TheTS1205]

13:56 That rule about not being allowed to film but take stills... What about taking 30 stills per second and keep shooting? 😂

[@niccollsvideo]

Gordon Laing asked the very same question!!

[@petrg68]

crazy price 6500,-usd, competition Canon R5II and Nikon Z9 4200,-usd

[@kingghidorah8106]

8k in Europe, and knowing Sony prices never go down in time... eugh

[@gavthane]

The A1ii is Sonys flagship, the R5ii is not Canons flagship. That’s the R1 which is £7K

[@MannsWoodlandPerspective]

​@@gavthane doesn't change the Z9 price comparison from a better video camera.

[@gavthane]

@@MannsWoodlandPerspective I don’t quite get what your point is? What’s the relevance?

[@ryanvacation7319]

@@gavthanethe relevance is for the customers looking to buy a high end camera that has the best value. They are comparing the A1ii to the high end model such as the Nikon z8/z9 and Canon’s R5II because these models offer similar features sets to the A1ii for a much lower price.

[@Zomlies]

So this is an A1 “B” and not an A1 II? It just seems like a minor update to just make it more cohesive with the rest of their lineup, but it’s not the most competitive move.

[@ryanvacation7319]

Yeah for most current A1 owner this new one is just a refinement and not worth the upgrade. Essentially the Intel tick-tock update model.

[@danmiddle2]

I've almost never missed focus with my A1.... so it's a lot of money to add precapture and a slight ergonomic improvement.

[@inaoifeble]

precapture is the kind of thing where it doesn't matter to 90% is people but if you need it not having it is a deal breaker i take a lot of sports and action photography and precapture would make my life so much easier

[@danmiddle2]

@inaoifeble I don't disagree, and that is the one feature I'd love to add to my A1. But would you not like more improvements to justify the upgrade? It has been a few years since the A1 came out, after all.

[@niccollsvideo]

True. This is a hard sell over the original A1 and even better, it could potentially force the A1 price down even further.

[@inaoifeble]

i don't currently own an a1 but if i was upgrading from my current camera i would only buy a camera that has precapture. so in this sense the a1 ii is a good upgrade bc it changes a camera i wouldn't buy into one i would buy though if i were upgrading I'd be torn between the a1 ii and the a9 iii

[@adammutolo5800]

Understand your point but at the same time, it was a lot of money three years ago. And three years later, the price has not changed, yet there’s several improvements. So anyone buying an a1 for the first time is getting an outstanding camera, at a three year old price. That sounds pretty good. As far as a1 users upgrading , upgrading is a very individual decision… can be completely worth it for some folks and not so much for others. That said, in my opinion, the prices in general are frustrating…

[@bamhamer]

Sony is really selling us a R5 mk2 for $6.5k. Nice!

[@ryanvacation7319]

Yeah it’s basically that.

[@anildangol]

that stabilization on video looks terrible compared to r5

[@barryobrien1890]

@@anildangol agreed. All of these so called hybrid cameras have horrible video stab, compared to a DJI or GoPro.

[@mikni4069]

@@barryobrien1890because it’s a much larger sensor, it’s very difficult stabilising a FF sensor why best practices is still gimbal

[@RiceCubeTech]

As an A1 owner I feel like nothing here could justify an upgrade. Was at least expecting 8K 60

[@Ben_Stewart]

Better luck with the Z8. Or wait for the Z9ii.

[@RiceCubeTech]

@ why would I switch systems? People keep saying to switch to the Z8 or Z9 but nobody should be swapping brands just because a body is slightly better. That’s a headache. I have too much glass to offload for that to make financial sense. I’d lose more on the glass than what i gain from the body.

[@RiceCubeTech]

@ if you can’t use an A1 becuase it’s “not enough” you’re not a real photographer you’re an influencer chasing specs. Is the A1 II disappointing? Sure, but everyone is freaking out way too much

[@ksk40]

S35 4K30 oversample is another joke. How did sony get to do 8K30 opengate oversample while 4K60 does not exist on this body

[@TECH3_]

@@ksk40 its not open gate , its just full width

[@amermeleitor]

Wait. If you think about the price, a Z8 is far better purchase. You can adapt your Sony lenses on Nikon Z bodies with the Megadap adapter. Better video, no mech shutter failure, fast AF, fast readout, etc... I think Sony made an underwhelming update to the A1 line...

[@nickwilliams7867]

I tried that it was ok at best.

[@alphaandomega2709]

That huge brick of the z8 with poor battery life? No thank you.

[@chris5590]

As a Jets fan, no matter where I run I cant escape

[@6gwilliams]

Will the Sony A1II be able to use the new Gen 4 CF Express Type A cards? I am first on my camera dealer's list for the A1 II to add to my current A1, A9III, A7RV. Cheers and tahnks

[@autoexoticswestcoast]

Can't imagine what Nikon will kick out with the Z9 II now that RED has been acquired.

[@RiposteThis]

RED doesn't do anything for them other than allow them to use lossless compressed raw in video. RED really didn't do anything else that was special, it was just that patent.

[@brittmurray9818]

I'm also curious to see how they integrate RED tech over time. I'm waiting on the Z8ii myself.

[@urosjovanovic3142]

You know this because you work there? You do know what RED did before they were acquired? You noticed that Nikon released a cine lens? And you think it's all because of the codec? I think I've noticed a flaw in your logic. ​Luckily, we won't have to wait for too long to see what are Nikon and RED going to release next@@RiposteThis

[@MannsWoodlandPerspective]

​@@RiposteThisRED lost in court and Nikon was going to do raw video anyway

[@mikni4069]

Don’t keep your hopes high, likely Nikon will be far more cautious now as not to hurt their new priced assets… It’s exactly why Sony is reluctant to offer noticeable video features because they have a cine line that is next after Arri… in Sony view it’s not worth potentially hurting for a low seller such as A1. Nikon when they launched Z9/8 did not have this dual interest and dilemma, but now they do

[@MichaelAres]

Love my Z8 and its video features for way less money 👍🏼

[@shelbyt4509]

I'm interested in Z8 right now, based on your experience, how long can Z8 record 8K in 30fps and 60fps before overheat? Do you have any good heat dissipation solution if I want to record maybe 2hrs of 8K for event?

[@MichaelAres]

@@shelbyt4509 why do you need to shoot in 8k for an event? 4K is more than enough and it’s a good quality 4K too. That will for sure last you 2hrs.

[@TomOhle1]

I don’t shoot emount (shoot L mount) but I gotta say that if you weren’t bought into any of the big three ecosystems, the body capabilities and price/performance of canon s5ii and Nikon z8/z9 exceed the A1ii. Both have dramatically better video capabilities, better IBIS, better history with firmware updates and similar image quality. For significantly less money… I’m kind of scratching my head here at how Sony has positioned this from a price perspective.

[@tonyC5757]

Sony was leading the game with their A7iii debut. Hence, they demanded sky prices with thei R n 9 series bodies which people accept because the other 2 brands just couldn't match Sony's advanced features. Now I guess the tide is turning, and Sony will lose new followers if they maintain this kind of price range.

[@ryanvacation7319]

@@tonyC5757 I know a few birders who moved away from Sony to Nikon because of the Z9. The Z9 was much more comfortable to hold with feature sets matching the A1. On top of that Nikon has some good telephoto glass for wildlife.

[@ERP_Klim]

Was using A1 since release. These feels like the upgrade, that was between A7R II & R III. And even though on paper it didn't look like a good upgrade, but all the improvements little by little combined, especially screen, body and etc, made me actually love it a lot. It's something you notice only when shooting content using it. If you an A1 user, how can you not make 1500-2500$ in 3-4 years, to get and upgrade for your main tool, by flipping the current one ebay etc while it costs. That will save you money and make an upgrade cheaper, so as your time will be spent with a better, more comfortable and feature packed camera. I will be getting these upgrade, and even though expectations not met, but those are only expectations. In real world i will be noticing those upgrades a lot, especially ibis, and loving it.

[@cjenkins79]

The issue isn't the minor upgrads, it's the price. The first A1 was announced in a world with no competition. Canon and Nikon now have cameras that are comparable for thousands less. If this camera was $5k it would be fine. But at $6500 it simply isn't worth the value unless you are stuck in Sony's ecosystem. They're basically screwing their customers who pay the most.

[@sh8736]

Nice to see Gordon! This is like the A9 to A92 update not a lot of changed features. However I upgraded my R4 to R5 based on the flippy and rotating screen and the focus stacking. Never got the A1 after trying it felt like a lot for some one who only shoots stills and not video. Happy now that I upgraded in Jan to the A93 the pre capture is really good, but where is the in camera multiple exposure that is in every other brand!

[@mauriciolee7349]

Thank Chris & Jordan for this DETAILED & INFORMATIVE video.

[@pelaozoom]

Sony, just give us and A1 firmware update.. 😢

[@GlaciaDay]

Sony: Great already have that covered, just for 6.5k!

[@giovannigio6217]

jokes aside, there are some small physical/hardware changes, slightly bigger grip and I don't think the original A1 had 2.5Gbe LAN. the only meaningful upgrade is the screen and its mechanism. after having said this, it's not just a firmware update, but it's literally just a little more so that we can't say it's all done in firmware. haha. I think sony knew that this camera was going to be bought only by who has older cameras than the A1. they did exactly what companies do when there is no competition: minor product updates. normal. on the desktop PC /laptop space you can think on intel, how we basically had 4 core CPUs for 10 years straight because there was no competition from AMD.

[@Jglattphoto]

As someone who shoots professional sports 90% of the time and also creates content for KZbin I like the improvements and the ability to accomplish both with one camera body.

[@Gremlack13]

It’s crazy how Sony and canon have their flagships flipped. Canons r1 competes with the a9 series in a similar price range, while the a1 series competes with the r5 series while costing thousands more for not much more features. I would take the r5ii over the a1ii due to cost alone for similar products.

[@bamhamer]

Absolutely agree. I'm a canon user and honestly think the r5 mk2 is the best camera right now. And I would love to upgrade to it but I planned to switch to sony due to e-mount and the third party lenses. Unfortunately there's currently no sony camera that can compete with the r5 mk2 unless you are willing to pay almost double the price...

[@BernardSolomon]

Lens selection? Sony is better in this area.

[@GrainyWorld]

And say goodbye to best autofocus system and best lens line-up.

[@recklesscoding]

@@BernardSolomontheoretically yes, but practically not if you are talking about the A1 II. You need to stick to first-party lenses to take advantage of the high burst rates and even then some support 30fps and others 20 or less. Right now, Canon has some better options for tele (100-300mm f/2.8) and portrait primes (85mm f1.2) to Sony’s first-party lineup -though the 35mm GM is probably the best f1.4 prime IMO and Sony has better UWA options for Astro. If you don’t care for any of these, then indeed Sony has better options but you might also be better off with an A7R V or original R5.

[@guydesrouilleres]

@@bamhamerI have the R5 Mark II and this seems like it’s very similar to it. I have Sony cameras as well and still like the ergonomics of Canon better. I also haven’t had it even show the overheat warning since I’ve had it. I was excited for Sony to put out something a little more amazing because that helps to push the envelope on all the brands. Maybe the Sony a7 4 and S4 will get something more exciting

[@janbonne]

I LOVE watching your reviews even if I ultimately don’t like the camera system I still like what all the industry is getting into. It helps how y’all put things in order, that said I enjoy just watching y’all having fun at ur work. And the locations you shoot at is very nicely shot and curated thanks for sharing it all.

[@Marc-op3ov]

For an update after 4 years a bit disappointed, no wow effect like with the a1 mark 1. I won't run to the store, Just continuing to use the a1 seems like the best option to me. If you have a lot of sony glass, and you need a new camera it is a differt story. But ridiculously expensive for the limited upgrade

[@Jeo-What]

Thank you for the review. Without having the camera in hand it is hard to appreciate some of the upgrade. From my personal general & event photography point of view, I sold my new A7R V and purchased a used A1 at discounted price that still has 3 years of international warranty with very low shutter count early this year and never miss anything on the A7R V. The A.I. was making a lot of mistakes in focusing while the variable angle LCD was mostly in closed position since the viewfinder most of the time and the 61MP files was mathematically taking way too much storage space compare to the 10MP less A1 files. It was mentioned by many people that when the original A1 received the newest firmware update the I.B.I.S. thought never been rated was noticeable improved together with the AF lock-on stickiness and I sure have the same experiences. Based on those information, I wonder how much improvement is really there compared to the original released A1 specifications? Sure the pre-capture is great to have and I wonder it's not a feature that can be but never will be unlocked by Sony on the OG A1 and just because there is a chip now labeled "AI" it does not mean the similar chip is not in the A1 already but not called "A.I." since Sony has been using "Machine Learning Processor" for over 15 years now inside their cameras (I know I will get screaming people telling the it's different but we will see on the chips on the circuit boards when the teardown video is released). For those who wants/needs the improved feature or just want the newest camera gears... Go for it!... since they are going to get it regardless what anyone has to say anyway. I will wait for more reviews on the production units and maybe pickup a used one if needed.

[@sevak1631]

Really enjoyed this as a video, some excellent shots from both you guys!

[@baljindersinghsidhu3959]

Not impressive at all.. better buy Nikon Z8..

[@HybridePassion]

Or Canon R5 II...

[@2cats1guy]

Great photos. That’s not easy. Really makes you appreciate sports photographers.

[@MRBuDWiZe]

how much faster is a9III with focusing vs a1II with AI which is running at 120 cycles per sec vs my current camera a7rV which i use for sport i think is 20 cycles per sec?

[@b.g.4277]

I see some people knocking it as just a firmware update, but after watching the highlights that is not the case. Improved IBIS, handling, etc... are all nice to have. Most likely not enough for people to upgrade if they are happy MK1 and depending on the price drop on the original you can now decide if the new features are worth the extra money. I would say for many new buyers the answer will probably be yes unless it is like the R1 and R3 price difference.

[@johnoconnell6667]

Sony's instantance on making their customers buy a new camera to get firmware improvements is infuriating.

[@andersbeer8156]

What is going on with this video footage? I'm at the 8:05 mark and the city behind our subjects looks like it's being eaten by a cloud monster with vintage Doctor Who level chroma FX.

[@od628]

The most interesting thing was the ad. That's a great deal and will actually subscribe. Seems like cameras have hit a wall to really make something compelling to upgrade. Good video nonetheless. 👍🏽

[@TippyMaggee3-l4m]

Love that moustache Jordan! Love the humour with these guys.

[@Roland314]

Great video. I can't wait to see a side-by-side comparison.

[@salamanca871]

Thanks for the video! Fantastic production. Really unbievable what just the 2 of you pull together! And I love those flash shots in the dirt!!

[@classicboy97]

This is just a “firmware” update for the A1, but on the hardware side. They could actually add the custom PPLUTs and 1/48 shutter speed and shutter angle to the original now if they wanted to. Just look at the FX3’s FW updates - it didn’t have any of those either but got those updates within the last 1-2 years. Super disappointed in Sony for not treating the A1 correctly.

[@CybrSlydr]

What was going on with the city/horizon in the video when you went to Spencer and the motocross segment? It looked foggy/hazy/flickering. Off to the far right of the video as well. 7:45

[@sisyphos-or2lx]

For me as an A1 owner: this Mark II Version is the most underwhelming update Sony ever did :( only the body, but no other benefits

[@mavfan1]

Keep telling yourself that. 😂

[@arvidjohansson3120]

Ergonomics has kept me from buying any Sony camera. For any A1 owners this might be a small upgrade, although it might be enough to get owners of other systems to consider the Sony system.

Nope. The A9II was the most underwhelming update ever.

[@nickwilliams7867]

You must be new to Sony. The A9 to A9ii was nowhere near as big an update

[@maneycv1]

He has commented on like 10 reviews with this same 💩. He does not have an A1.

[@brotherted9212]

How will the a1ii compare to the a7Rvi that’s expected next year at half the price?

[@PixelsPeeper]

Excellent review , Thank You

[@anulearntech]

The A1 II is basically a firmware update for the A1, except with hardware updates added in A7V and A9III which they cannot provide via software update, so they had to release a new A1 body.

[@jonspoard8416]

So it's not just a firmware update then?

[@anulearntech]

@jonspoard8416 it can't be, but it's hardware upgrade as incremental as a firmware upgrade.

[@jalensimmons2608]

@@anulearntech yeah... you shoulda just sat this one out lofl

[@anulearntech]

@@jalensimmons2608 one could probably get the Z8 + 180-600 for the price of A1. For wildlife, bif, I'd consider that. With the latest firmware, it isn't far off in performance, and that body is probably far better than anything sony can throw at us.

[@edscmktg]

$6,500 for a camera body (non-Leica)? I’m happy not to be in the target market. Not sure who is or how many could be.

[@dance2jam]

As a Nikon shooter who moved to mirrorless with the Z9, I have to say, on the one hand, this shows you just how far Nikon jumped when they brought the Z9/Z8 to market. It also leaves me without a feeling of FOMO - a great thing headed into the holidays. On the other hand, it does make me a little sad that Sony is not pushing the pack to make a quantum leap forward (as the A9iii starts to do). For the moment, it's the limit of current technology. I'm curious if Nikon will have a firmware update coming for the Z9/Z8 soon to add even more capability. As for the flip screen and EVF resolution, well done Sony.

[@photographerimages]

Great video. I would use it on my next one. Seems like nice ergonomics. When is A7V arriving?

[@tomgroner9302]

Are 30fps only possible with native Sony lenses or with lenses like Tamron lenses (70-180mm)?

[@Marc-op3ov]

Only sony😢

[@MusicFed]

what mic is Jordan using in the motocross segment?

[@ThePoiMechanic]

Wow this covers so much more than any other video I have seen. Can't wait to own one!

[@onphoto]

No need to upgrade yet then.

[@juniferbilagantol7038]

I just realized they didn't have the Global Shutter like what the A9III has. Why? Is there anything wrong or some potential/seen issues with the A9III with the Global Shutter for them to not let their flagship camera-A1II-have a Global Shutter?

[@MrCaerbannog]

Most likely they just can't yet do a decent global shutter with the megapixel count that they need for the A1 line. It'll probably be the A1 III before we see that.

[@falxonPSN]

This is what happens when your first flagship is so far ahead of everyone else. They don't need to push this one as hard as they did because they're still at the top end in most respects.

[@hankroest6836]

6:45 Great shot JD. :-) 7:31 and another great shot! Great misleading lines. ;-)

[@kenyontech]

Hi,, Whats the lens that you guys are using with the GH7

[@robbie154]

So it cant even match the r5ii with 30 fps lossless? Bro how is this a new camera release I don't get it. Sony is now in 3rd place. Wild.

[@shbdhd]

Perfect picture for when you said "travel", yeah, slinging a 400 f2.8 GM on an a1 😂😂

[@rbrtmllr]

Top reviews, great work

[@GreenLightFlight]

6:07 is there a drop in bit depth or dynamic range when using the electronic shutter?

[@HectorHughMunro]

Nice review. The video looks very good. Having bought flagship cameras for years, it’s now getting to the point, like with iPhones where most of us can start using lower range cameras than this. I’m now more oriented towards cameras that do fewer things than this well. The progress in recent years has been astounding.

[@JikoMuskato]

Happy to see Gordon Laing all fine and happy. :D

[@ejbernal2]

I was at the game, sadly. Wish I had known you guys were there!

[@erbterb]

Imaging edge. My hands are up the air in despair. Then I realize my S1R has the functions built into the camera from 2019. Rejoice pana will cone to the rescue.

[@hivizion]

chris is a really good photographer

[@howyg101]

Funny how he mentions features (pro captue, flexible screen) that OM Mk11 has for a fraction of the price apart from a 50mp sensor.

[@MannsWoodlandPerspective]

Chris and Jordan, how do you sleep the night before being able to shoot a NFL game? 😂 I'd be laying there staring at the hotel ceiling all night. As for the camera I was hoping for a bigger update to push Nikon. Maybe Nikon will release a FW for more video specs 😅

[@danieldougan269]

15:40 brings me a great deal of joy, both as a Colts fan and as a decent human being who detests Aaron Rodgers.

[@kingghidorah8106]

my idea for a real flagship camera (a1ii) would be something like 14fps mechanical, 30 electronic, 3 milliseconds sensor readout speed and at least 1/32000 shortest shutter cycle, 8k iso as dual native ISO level, a glass panel 2k touchscreen that tilts around like the A77II screen and getting rid of that redundant top left dial, place the mode dial there and make room for a top view display which quite honestly it is very useful, and saves time and battery.

[@ksk40]

at 48k CNY it is a very hilirous machine given R5II Z9 are just around 30k CNY. As A9M3 drops around 33k CNY and second hand A1 instantly got a price drop from 28k to 26.5k. A proper second hand price around 3.3 is expectable within a year. I think I'll get a A1M2 by then

[@theonlyredspecial]

10:34. Let’s give Tony a round of applause 👍🏻😬

[@AWAShowme]

Thank you very much for the content. I won't buy the awesome new Sony, but I bought the Audiio subscription.

[@TheEclectic]

When the specs for the A1 ii got leaked a few weeks ago, I decided I'd be sticking with Canon and upgrading from my 5D Mark IV to the R5 Mark ii

[@SamW604]

I hope Jordan and Drake rank the Sony A1II against its competition, for example, which camera is #1, #2, #3, etc.

[@盾神京矢]

The surprise is that this thing isn’t more expensive than its predecessor.

[@cavb748]

8k 60fps in a firmware update?

[@silva_br1]

Sony sells 🎥🎥🎥. Photo cameras will not have same videos skills of 🎥🎥🎥

[@infantfrontender6131]

Insiders are saying it will happen on January 1. You will find it under the Christmas tree

[@liuels]

Quite impossible with cfe type a

[@CelsoMollo]

Has the camera development reached a plateau? The latest flagships from Canon and Sony haven’t showed us much innovation, am I wrong?

[@Metaconceptual]

Alpha 1.2, because it should have been a firmware update. 😂

[@davothedon]

I feel that if another camera brand had released a mild uprade like this, Petapixel would have gone in harder. But Sony does seem to have a hold on these KZbinrs......

[@niccollsvideo]

That’s silly. The A1 II is an incredibly capable camera that can do pretty much anything any kind of photography. Even considering the lack of innovation it still has incredible specs and abilities. And you really have to pay for it. Canon ended up making a flagship that costs the same but with way less versatility and Nikon and Canon both have a wonderful Jack of all trades camera for way less money. But they aren’t quite as capable in many ways. The A1 II is very pricey and that sucks but there is no denying that it is a true and very powerful flagship camera.

[@EdvardKALEN]

What about Canon R5 II? There was a lot of new stuff there, right?

[@alejandroloza]

I am going with Z8 now. I will wait until Sony7 5 is released. If they are better than Z 8, i will get the Sony7 5. But, if it does not have much of a difference. I will go over to Nikon.

[@JimVajda82]

Remember when the first A1 was released and we thought computational photography might be coming to Sony bodies? So much for that.

[@brittmurray9818]

Thanks for the Movember reminder! Donated and encourage others to donate too - whatever you can. Let's go Team PetaPixel!

[@labibhaddad]

Sure looks like a fantastic camera and a great first view to convince you how good is the A1 MKI, and done to be a great bargain

[@andrescarrasco1248]

SOny A1.2 not a mark 2, sony has become so underwelming.... like nikon, canon even lumix offer much more for less

[@heiner71]

I think you guys are just spoiled. Demand quantum leaps every few years.

[@JonathanGardner2004]

What I am hearing is exactly why I sold all my Sony gear and moved to Nikon. Most of the shooting mode and menu upgrades could have been delivered to the A1 via firmware updates. But Sony wants you to pay 6K for them.

[@ryanvacation7319]

I think Sony’s error is not trickling down the A1 tech to their other lower camera models fast enough. The non-flagship Canon R5II and Nikon Z8 offers similar flagship feature for a non-flagship price tag. On top of that the current Nikon and Canon’s midrange cameras inherited a lot of the tech from their flagship models. A good example is the Canon R6 mark ii which is basically a mini R3 and beats all the features of Sony’s a7iv in every area except for stills resolution.

[@fernaoferreira3195]

Why no global shutter?

[@TravisVarga]

That thing is AWESOME

[@DavidDatura]

I was about to say this was now the best all-rounder on the market, and for stills anyway it could be. But a little disappointed by the unimproved 4K video modes, no 8K/60 like its competitors and the jumpy IS on video too. So the Canon R5 Mark II still keeps its title. With the Z8/Z9 still competitive…good on Nikon!

[@defcry_again]

Great camera for new buyers. Skip for A1 owners.

[@thebelly925]

@15:06 Hey! Could you get Tony’s autograph for me? LoL

[@SoftKitty0930]

Is it ever possible to add oversampled 4K into the A1 lineup via firmware? I fear this would be the deal breaker to a lot of users. Personally I am trading in my A7R3 for some cash and buying this A1M2 as my first hybrid camera. I am too invested into the Sony eco system to justify the jump to Nikon. However, I am still crazy jealous about Nikon users having Z8 as an option. I also wonder how much of this camera upgrade is just Sony's unwilling to introduce new sensor to a new camera after just using it for one generation. That seems to be their strategies that one sensor has to be used on two generations of cameras. Sony Semiconductor manufactures the CMOS for Nikon so I don't think Nikon's next Z8 or Z9 line will have a completely new sensor either. It will probably be a minor upgrade as this A1M2 for Nikon's next gen flagship cameras.

[@瀧君-v3h]

While the upgrade may not be substantial, the Sony a1 and a1 II remain the most powerful contenders in the realm of 135 full-frame mirrorless cameras when it comes to high resolution and high-speed photography. Capable of capturing two sets of 30 50-megapixel raw images per second, along with dual high-speed card support for rapid bursts, these cameras place immense demands on autofocus systems, image processors, and CMOS performance, making them unrivaled in the market. In comparison, the equally high-resolution Canon R5 II may boast the ability to shoot 30 Raw frames per second on paper, but it features only one fast card slot and one slower slot, lagging behind the processing speed of the previous generation a1. With the upgrade to 4.0 fast cards in the a1 II, its speed surpasses even that of Canon. Of course, this becomes an exception if your work doesn't necessitate dual card backups. As for the Nikon Z9, capable of shooting only 20 Raw frames, there currently isn't a competitor in the market that can match the high-speed, high-resolution photography capabilities of the original a1, let alone its improved second generation. Regarding the issue of not internally recording Raw, generally speaking, recording in Raw captures far more data than H.265 Log, yet different models will inevitably experience some degree of dynamic range loss when recording in Raw. For instance, the Z6 III's Raw dynamic range is not even as good as N-Log, with S-Log3 proving to be more stable and mature in comparison. Truth be told, unless shooting for cinema purposes, S-Log3 is more than sufficient for most documentary, wedding, and everyday filming needs. Currently, S-Log3 stands as the best-balanced solution in terms of storage capacity, dynamic range, and color science. In terms of initial impressions on the second generation, as of November 19th, Sony's a1 continues to lead similar products, standing out as the second high-resolution, high-speed, and lightweight 135 full-frame mirrorless camera in the market. While the upgrade in the second generation may be limited, it further solidifies Sony's current resource advantage. Prior to the use of the new generation double-layer CMOS in the a1 III, the a1 II, as a high-tech representative of Sony's camera manufacturing prowess over the past two to three years, has widened the gap with its competitors. However, it must be emphasized that this gap is not insurmountable. To truly outpace competitors and leave Canon and Nikon in the dust, a completely new generation of CMOS and image processors is still needed. Nevertheless, for Sony, already equipped with technologies like double-layer CMOS, curved CMOS, and global shutter CMOS, this might just be a matter of time. The prospect of leaving Canon and Nikon behind in outer space might just be a matter of the next decade.

[@mipmipmipmipmip-v5x]

Great job providing no insights but still using a billion words, chatgpt.

[@costafilh0]

Amazing camera. But both the R1 and the A1II were huge disappointments this year. After years of waiting, I think me and most people expected a lot more. Especially after the introduction of the Global Sensor in the a9III. Processing power they already have for at least 30 fps at this higher resolution. Maybe it wasn't worth it for now, since the camera can already do 20 fps with the same sensor. It looks like we'll have to wait another 4 years to get a global sensor in the flagship with higher resolution. By then it will probably be able to do 60fps and the a9IV 240fps.

[@kellyullrich]

If I were positioned to buy a new camera body, the A1 m2 would get my vote for precapture alone. I only shoot raw. Nikon can't do it properly in my book. I want precapture, but not if its jpg. 😢

[@LOOKINGFOREXPOSURE]

In body focus stacking...do NOT give Sony ANYYYYY credit whatsoever in this regard. They gave it to the RV...never updated their flagship model...then updated the damn A7IV and gave it focus stacking...and again, nothing for those who own their flagship a1. They must know all too well they need every possible "upgrade" viable on this Mark II to make it seem worthwhile.

[@StYfReX]

The more I watch, the happier I amwith buying the a9III on release instead of waiting for this A1II🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@thomaschamberlin2485]

I would have given up a stop or two of IBIS if this $6500 camera had centered the IBIS on the focal point like the $2000 Nikon Zf does. I am so jealous of the vari angle LCD, though. If we must endure those cursed flippy screens, can they at least have tilt, too? So far nobody has mentioned focus stacking. I know people who had to buy an A7r4 becaue their A1 did not have it.

[@starbase218]

This is the first time that I hear that Nikon has an auto AF setting that detects which type of subject it sees, and Sony did not. Like, I thought Nikon AF typically required a more hands-on approach to getting the same results. But this isn't true then? Honestly, I think this is the best PR that the Nikon Z8 and Z9 can use. I mean, this is the company that, with the A9 III release, said something to the effect of "hey, we're Sony, we can do anything". But this new guy still doesn't do 8K60, and 4K fullframe is subsampled. The Nikons beat it handily there. Most of the other stuff is still on the level of the A1: 30 fps lossy RAW, 20fps lossless. It adds pre-capture but everyone has that now (though Nikon does need to add RAW capability). IBIS is better and AF is likely more sticky as well, but the Z8 in particular is less than half the price right now, and it does some things this can't do. Though it does have asymmetric card slots, and of course the EVF is lower res. This makes me think the Z9 II is going to be a monster. I'm expecting a much improved EVF, IBIS, AF, and maybe with the CFe-B cards, they can go faster? Though that might be limited by how fast they can get the data off the sensor. But then I'm also expecting Expeed 8, since Expeed 7 has made its way throughout the range now.