Digital Home Thoughts: Sony A390 Given Quick Review by Digital Photography Review; Lame Duck Confirmed

"The A390 is essentially an A380 with some subtle ergonomic changes, specifically a new, more substantial grip, and a reshaped top plate. As a relatively minor upgrade, the A390 was never going to warrant a full, in-depth review, but we're curious to see what Sony has changed in its latest midrange DSLR. When we reviewed the A380, one of our main criticisms of the camera's handling was Sony's change from the bulbous, almost oversized grip of the A350 to the more minimal, somewhat sharp lines of its predecessor. Has Sony taken a welcome step back in the right direction?"

So, dpreview.com takes a very quick look at the Sony A390, which in many ways is a very minor update of the A380. Ignoring the mirrorless competition, the A390's output looks dated. The output looks worse than the Nikon D3000 in some areas, and that camera is using a sensor that is some 4 to 5 years old. Newer cameras like the Nikon D5000 and the cheaper Pentax K-x easily best it. It makes me wonder where a big company like Sony is taking the Alpha system to; loyal Minolta users deserve better!