The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H9 is a replacement for the DSC-H5, and features an eight megapixel CCD imager coupled to an impressive Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar branded 15x optical zoom lens, offering a range from 31mm wide angle to a very useful 465mm telephoto. As with previous H-series models, the DSC-H9''s lens incorporates Sony''s Super Steady Shot optical image stabilization to minimize blur caused by camera shake - an essential feature for such a long zoom when not using a tripod. The H9''s 3.0-inch LCD display can be tilted up or down to help you get the shot from an unusual angle.
Other Sony H9 features include ISO sensitivity to a maximum of ISO 3,200, a new advanced sports shooting mode that combines predictive continuous autofocus with high shutter speeds, a Memory Stick Duo / PRO Duo card slot plus 31MB of built-in memory, and power from a proprietary lithium-ion rechargeable battery. The DSC-H9 also offers high definition component video output, via a proprietary cable. The H9 is the only Cyber-shot model in this year''s lineup to feature Sony''s Night Shot technology.
The H9 includes Sony''s new face detection technology, capable of detecting up to eight faces simultaneously. Sony''s system is linked not only to the camera''s autoexposure and autofocus systems as in most similar systems, but also to white balance and flash metering as well, which should help the camera ensure proper flash exposure and pleasing flesh tones. Also, the H9 marks one of the first applications of Sony''s Bionz image processor -- first seen in the company''s Alpha digital SLRs -- in their compact camera models. Sony says the Bionz processor will offer improved image quality, faster response times, and better battery life in its compact cameras.

* 15x Carl Zeiss Lens
* SteadyShot optical image stabilization
* Above average Macro quality
* Lightweight and compact
* Full complement of manual and auto exposure options
* Wide range of features
* Very good performance
* Automatic Face Detection
* Dynamic Range Optimization
* Comes with Lens Hood
* Fast 1/4,000 sec shutter speed
* ISO starts at 80
* Optional HD still and slideshow output
* Excellent viewfinder accuracy for both the LCD and EVF
* Though muted, the H9 delivers good color accuracy
* Included Remote Commander has more power than most remotes
* Good resolution

Basic Features

* 8.1-megapixel CCD
* 15x optical zoom lens (equivalent to a 31-465mm lens on a 35mm camera)
* Up to 76x Smart Zoom (at VGA resolution)
* EVF (Electronic Viewfinder).
* 3.0-inch color LCD monitor
* Automatic exposure, Program AE, Aperture-Priority, Shutter-Priority, Full Manual modes
* Built-in flash with red-eye reduction
* Burst mode
* Matrix, center-weighted, and spot metering modes
* Memory Stick PRO Duo (tested up to 8GB)
* 31MB internal memory
* USB 2.0 connection
* Rechargeable Lithium battery and charger included
* Software for Mac and PC included

Special Features

* Fastest Shutter Speed of 1/4,000 sec. (in Advanced Sports mode)
* ISO from 80-3,200
* Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization
* Automatic Face Detection
* Dynamic Range Optimization feature
* Nine scene modes, including Advanced Sports Shooting and High Sensitivity modes
* Black and White, Natural, Sepia, and Vivid color effects
* Special Effects including Soft Edge Filter, Fish-Eye filter, and Partial Color filter
* Remote Control and Lens Hood included
* HD Still and Slideshow output
* In-Camera Red-Eye Reduction
* White balance (color) adjustment: automatic, presets, and manual
* DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), PictBridge printing compatibility
* Movie recording with sound
* Optional accessories include HD component cable, wide and telephoto conversion lenses, filters, travel charger, sports pack, camera case

In the Box

The retail package contains the following items:

* Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H9 camera
* Shoulder strap
* Rechargeable lithium-ion battery and charger
* USB cable
* AV cable
* IR Remote
* Lens adapter
* Lens hood
* Printed manual
* Software CD including Picture Motion Browser 2.0 and USB driver

Free Extras:

2 x Genuine Batteries (total 3 batteries with camera)
3 x Genuine Sony Memory Stick Pro Duo (1 x 2GB & 2 x 1GB)
1 x Padded camera bag.

by Zulfiqar (few years ago!) / 603 views