Second body as backup for A77 - opinions?

I am tempted to buy either a used A700 or a A550, both in good conditions, as a backup body for my A77. The purpose is to have a second body ready for example on a wedding shoot, if the A77 should fail.

Would you buy either of those (A700, A550), or would you go for a different (newer) body?
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I've been considering the A65. With the same resolution and engine, PP work will be much more smoother.

It depends on a few things.

If it's just for backup only and you can manage with 1 camera comfortably during normal duties, then I'd say if cost is a consideration, get an A700, it's more then capable still and as an emergency will more then cover your needs.

But, you may consider using the second camera with a complimentary lens on, and in that case it's nice to have something similar to your main body since you'll be switching between them regularly..

I just was thinking the new rx100 would be a great backup when it comes out.

Depending on what you're prepared to spend the A65 would make a more natural backup to the A77 given the similarities.

Otherwise I reckon the A700 makes a good backup to the A77 -- you end up with two well handling cameras that have excellent VFs - as long as live view isn't important to you.

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Andrew.

For one thing, it didn't have video, and it's just a little too far back at this point. For example, I really take advantage of the EVF (in fact, my LCD is usually off and turned in. Another factor was that the A700 (and grips) were getting good prices at the time (about a year ago). At that point, I had an A77 and A33 (with plans to update the A33 to A37); I also carry a GH2, mostly for video.

However, about a month ago (or less) I found that I had to have a non-GPS camera for some travel, and also realized that I would be doing a lot of cropping as I could not take long zooms (which put the A57 out of the running). So, I picked up an A65 as it is so similar to the A77, but yet is smaller and lighter - better for travel. And, ha ha, I wouldn't need to buy another Friedman book...

Since so many of the features are the same, the sensor is the same, and the IQ similar, I am happy with the A65, although I may still upgrade the A33, in part to get good pricing on the new 18-135 lens.

I don't do weddings, but I do believe in backups. I never travel with only one camera, and, even on a daily basis, I will carry something like an LX5, as well as a little Flip.

If I was in your situation, I would probably go with an a35 or an a37 when it comes out. Because it's a smaller body, it'll complement the a77 better.

Sometimes maybe you'll want to take a lighter camera out. Throw on the nice 35mm 1.8 prime on the a35/a37 and you've got a nice light walk around setup when the a77 is too much gear. As a backup wedding body, you can have a prime lens like a 85mm 2.8 ready to go on your other arm. You'll probably use them both. Just my opinion.

I currently use my A-350 for stills, but for video, I use my Sony TX-1. The stills on the TX-1 are pretty noisy, so I'm thinking of getting an NEX-7 for a lightweight body that could utilize all of my lenses for stills or video. I'll probably get it as a new camera to replace my wife's aging H-50. That way she will never know its my "second" camera. ;-)

Randy

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If you are buying only as a contingency that the A77 will fail, then
don't spend much... because it probably won't.

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