Considering Purchase of the alpha77?

With the imminent arrival of the vastly anticipated α77 we decided it was a good time to gauge user desire for the new camera. Indeed, even in the absence of final firmware, online reviewers as well as our very own Gustav have already started putting the camera through the ringer and have provided a great number of indications allowing people to get a pretty good idea of whether they'd like to own the camera.

So, pretty simple and straightforward: do you think you'll buy one? And if so, what camera will it replace?

It might be interesting to discuss in the thread itself whether you will use it alongside any other camera, and how you view it versus the current FF options (I think the pollster has given away his opinion on that particular matter...) And of course for those who vote that they are not considering a switch to the α77, it will be interesting to hear your opinions why.

Thanks for your time!

Edited by brian33 - 16 September 2011 at 14:35

It will replace my a700 as my sports camera. I will continue to use the a850 for most of my portrait/dance/theatre work, though I will likely add video of recitals using the a77.

I can't take part in the poll because I'm neither downgrading/upgrading from my 900.
I consider the 77 as an option particularly for long lens', tracking and/or critical MF.
Also I'm looking forward to trying out the new features of the camera which will presumably appear on the 99.

Peekayoh wrote: I can't take part in the poll because I'm neither downgrading/upgrading from my 900. I consider the 77 as an option particularly for long lens', tracking and/or critical MF. Also I'm looking forward to trying out the new features of the camera which will presumably appear on the 99.

Ahh, we thought we had all options covered.

consididering yes, but not before 2012 i just wait until price drops and better firmware [with tethered shooting]

Peekayoh wrote: I can't take part in the poll because I'm neither downgrading/upgrading from my 900. I consider the 77 as an option particularly for long lens', tracking and/or critical MF. Also I'm looking forward to trying out the new features of the camera which will presumably appear on the 99.

I'd still vote. As stated in the OP, the wording there reflects the OP's view on the matter. In fact the wording was questioned and decided to be left as is, for no other reason than the 850/900 are considered the flagship series and anything else lower. So, technically it's neutral even though given the variety of opinions, it may seem tendentious. But that's why we'd like to see it discussed, which you've done.

In particular I like what you have to say on using it to gauge an eventual a99. The one main reason I'd like to get my hands on an a77 and try it is to do just that: see what it may show for a future a99 (it being understood that a recent interview from Sony stated that for their next FF option, they've yet to decide on EVF vs. OVF. - though that of course is only one aspect of the camera.)

EDIT: so as far as my own response is concerned, I voted "no" since I own an 850 and have no interest in an aps-c sensor camera since it doesn't fit what I like to shoot.

A no from me. Having only recently bought an a55 (and still loving it), and using both this and my a580 on most shoots; I can't imagine me purchasing an a77.

That doesn't mean I'm thumbing my nose at the new SLT of course, but I'm very happy with the gear I have.

Best regards

Gavin