Sony DSC-S600 Review

Click to take a QTVR tour of the S600

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S600 model offers features six-megapixel resolution and a precision Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens with a 3x optical wide-angle (31 - 93 mm) zoom, which is much wider than other cameras in its class, so everyone is sure to be in the shot. The camera fits comfortably in your hand and has a large, two-inch LCD screen for easy viewing and image sharing.

For only about $200, the S600 offers a combination of advanced features like sophisticated auto exposure and focus controls that work transparently behind the scenes for a seamless camera experience. Sony's multi-pattern measuring function gauges incoming light by examining 49 points across the frame. With multi-point auto focus, the camera intelligently evaluates five different focus areas and selects the best focus setting for the subject instead of the background.

The high-light sensitivity (up to IS0 1000) allows for higher shutter speeds in low-light conditions and reducing the chance of blurred images. With higher sensitivity, you can shoot in available light for more natural exposure or in settings where flash is not permitted, such as museums. When you do need flash photography, this same sensitivity actually increases the camera's flash effective range to 33 feet -- significantly greater than previous models in its class.

The ultra-portable S600 is ready to capture pictures whenever the moment strikes. Powered by Sony's Real Imaging Processor circuit, this Cyber-shot model boasts a quick start-up, fast shot-to-shot times, and long battery life -- up to 460 shots per charge using rechargeable NiMH batteries.

For those moments when a simple still picture does not capture the entire mood, the S600 captures 640x480 VGA-resolution MPEG video at 30 frames per second that is perfect for viewing on your television.

It is equipped with 32MB of internal memory so that you can start shooting as soon as the camera is out of the box. The camera's capacity can be easily expanded with an optional Memory Stick Duo media card or Memory Stick PRO Duo card, now available in capacities up to two gigabytes.

The camera's image resolution is ideal for making high-quality prints. Simply connect the model to a Sony DPP-FP50 digital photo printer and print from the convenience of your own home. You can even create postcards or calendars using the printer's supplied software.

S600 Features:

• Sony Super HAD 6.0 Megapixel CCD imager
• Carl Zeiss 3x wide (31-93mm 35mm equiv) zoom lens
• 5 Area Multi-Point AF with auto Macro
• 2.0" color LCD and 4x playback zoom
• Auto exposure plus Scene and High Sensitivity modes
• MPEG VX Fine movie mode, 640x480 @ 30fps w/sound
• 7-shot Burst mode at 6M resolution, 100 shots in VGA
• High Sensitivity ISO 1000 for better low-light pictures
• Flash range up to 33 feet with High Sensitivity
• Powered by 2 standard AA type batteries
• USB Direct-print with any PictBridge compatible printer
• USB 2.0 high-speed connectivity for PC and Mac
• 32MB internal memory and optional MS Duo cards

The Cyber-shot DSC-S600 camera is available for around $200 and is supplied with two AA alkaline batteries, a USB cable, wrist strap and CD-ROM software. Options include an accessory kit (ACC-CN3TR) for about $40, an AC Adapter (AC-LS5K) for about $40, and a tripod (VCT-R100) for about $35.

Physical Views

The S600 compared to an average CD disc.

The Sony S600 and the Olympus FE-120.