Olympus has announces 3 new cameras: the C-5500 Sport Zoom, the entry-level D-425, and the C-7070 Wide Zoom.
The C-5500 Sport zoom includes a 5 MP CCD, a 2-inch LCD, and an array of manual and automatic settings. The camera incorporates a 5 optical zoom lens and a 4x digital zoom. This unit boasts a startup time of less than one second and nearly instant shutter release. A burst mode allows 2.7 frames per second. The camera shoots QuickTime movies of 30 fps, and uses an "anti-shake" function for enhanced stability while in video mode. This model will connect to a computer using USB 2.0 and employs an included 16 MB xD-Picture card. The camera will be available in February 2005 for $349.99.
The D-425 will be a 4 MP camera with a 4x digital zoom. The camera will emply the Olympus TruePic TRUBO Image Processor for enhanced picture quality and faster startup and shutter release. This unit will also employ xD-Picture cards. Expect this camera later in the month for $149.99
The C-7070 Wide Zoom will be a 7.1 MP camera with a 4x optical zoom ultra-wide-angle lens (equivalent to 27 to 110mm, f2.8 - f.8.0). The camera will have a 1.8-inch swivel LCD, capalbe of swinging up to 180 degrees. The camera will use two autofocus systems -- a predictive AF mode for subjects moving towards the camera and an AF Target Selection function where users can select from 143 zones within the shot. Two types of storage will be accepted -- an xD-Picture or Compact Flash media (including microdrive). The unit comes with a wide range of optional accessories -- including external battery packs and underwater housing. This camera should be available next month for $699.
