Key Takeaways
1. The Sony A7 V has received positive feedback for its photography and videography capabilities, being called “a genuine hybrid priced for mortals.”
2. Reviewers praise the camera’s speed, autofocus, and video quality, although there are concerns for E-Mount users relying on third-party lenses.
3. Issues arise with third-party autofocus lenses, causing the camera to malfunction during tests, particularly with brands like Viltrox and Sirui.
4. Speculation exists that compatibility problems may be due to pre-release firmware, but no updates are currently available for the A7 V.
5. Sony does not guarantee third-party lens compatibility, leaving users uncertain about potential intentional incompatibilities.
The Sony A7 V was just released, and feedback has been largely favorable. Many reviewers are highlighting the strengths of this full-frame camera in both photography and videography. DPReview referred to it as “a genuine hybrid priced for mortals,” owing to its remarkable versatility. Nonetheless, a review from Kai W on YouTube has pointed out potential issues for E-Mount users who depend on third-party lenses, which tend to be significantly less expensive than those made by Sony.
Early Praise and Subsequent Issues
Kai begins his review expressing admiration for the camera’s speed, autofocus capabilities, and video quality. However, around the 16:15 mark, when he tests the A7 V with a third-party lens, difficulties emerge. During his evaluation of E-mount lenses from various Chinese brands, including well-known names like Viltrox and Sirui, Kai encountered several issues that resulted in the camera being unable to take pictures. It’s important to mention that this issue seems mainly to affect autofocus lenses, which is logical since most non-AF lenses do not have significant electrical connections.
Firmware Speculations
There is some speculation that the problems with third-party lenses might stem from pre-release firmware. However, the A7 V is already being sold in Europe, and currently, there are no firmware updates available for this new hybrid model. Sony’s website also mentions that “a software update may be required for some lenses,” suggesting that the lens manufacturers might bear some responsibility for the compatibility issues, though this disclaimer only relates to the A7 V’s new 60 fps continuous shooting feature. One might argue that it should have been relatively easy for Sony to create a system to identify compatible lenses, in order to inform users and allow them the choice to switch to a slower shooting mode.
Sony’s Response
When questioned regarding the lens compatibility issue, Sony remarked that “we do not guarantee third-party lens compatibility,” which neither confirms nor denies any intentional incompatibility.
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