The Sony Alpha 68 (A68) DSLR was first released overseas, but will be coming to North American retailers in April, 2016. A step-up model for entry-level photographers, the Alpha 68 DSLR boasts a 24.2 Megapixel APS-C Exmor CMOS image sensor mated to the BIONZ X image processing engine. Coupled with a 79-point phase-detection AutoFocus (AF) system that includes 15 cross points, this camera is able to track moving objects, shoot in conditions as low as EV -2, capture up to 8fps continuously, and record Full 1080p HD videos at up to 50Mbps in the XAVCS format (that's better than Blu-ray). This AF system offers a number of different modes including Face and Eye Detection, a range control option, and a choice between different AF Areas (Wide, Zone, Center, Flexible Spot, Expand Flexible Spot, and Lock-on AF).

In addition to recording video at a high bitrate, the Alpha 68 can also record 2-channel LPCM or Dolby Digital audio via the built-in mic or via the microphone minijack. Levels are adjusted and monitored via the Audio Level Meter, and you can use the DSLR's HDMI out to record to an external recording device or for an external monitor. You'll be framing shots via the 100% frame coverage OLED "Tru-Finder" or the tillable 2.7" LCD viewfinder, while the multi-interface accessory shoe is available to power external accessories like flashes. Lastly, the A68 offers numerous ways to adjust settings one the fly, custom Function (Fn) buttons, 13 Creative Styles, High Dynamic Range options, and RAW + JPEG image capture.

The only thing we don't see included is Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, which is odd for a camera in this price point.

Sony A68 Features:

• 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS image sensor
• BIONZ X image processor
• Dedicated AF Sensor (4D Focus)
• 79 AF points
• 15 cross points
• Compatible with all Sony A-mount lenses
• 8fps Continuous Shooting
• OLED Tru-Finder
• 2.7" TFT LCD
• ISO 100-25600 (still image); 100-12800 (movie)
• Full 1080p HD Video Recording in XAVCS at up to 50Mbps
• Audio level meter and control
• Microphone minijack
• LPCM 2ch or Dolby Digital Stereo
• Clean HDMI output (for recording on external recorders)
• Front dial / top display panel / control wheel
• Multi-interface accessory shoe
• Auto Object Framing
• Clear Image Zoom
• Lens Compensation
• Image Quality Modes
• RAW
• RAW & JPEG
• JPEG Extra Fine
• JPEG fine
• JPEG Standard
• Creative Styles
• Standard
• Vivid
• Neutral
• Clear
• Deep
• Light
• Portrait
• Landscape
• Sunset
• Night Scene
• Autumn leaves
• Black & White
• Sepia
• Style Box (1-6)
• (Contrast (-3 to +3 steps)
• Saturation
• Dynamic Range Functions
• Off
• Dynamic Range Optimizer (Auto/Level(1-5))
• Auto High Dynamic Range(Auto Exposure Difference, Exposure difference Level (1-6EV, 1.0EV step))
• Dimensions: 5.61" W x 4.10" H x 3.18" D (142.6mm x 104.2mm x 82.8mm)
• Weight: 1.52 lbs (690 g)

In The Box

• Accessory Shoe Cap
• Battery Charger BC-VM10A
• Body Cap
• Eyepiece Cup
• Micro USB cable
• Power cord
• Rechargeable Battery NP-FM500H
• Shoulder Strap
• SAL1855 (18-55mm Zoom Lens)
• Lens Cap
• Lens Rear Cap

The Sony Alpha 68 (A68) will be available in April (2016) in two forms. The body-only version will MSRP for $599.99, while the 18-55mm lens + body option will MSRP for $699.99.