Sony's flagship A-mount SLT — the A99 with full-frame translucent mirror technology.
The Sony SLT-A99 was released in October 2012 as the professional flagship of Sony's Alpha A-mount system, employing SLT (Single Lens Translucent Mirror) technology. Unlike a traditional reflex mirror, the SLT's fixed translucent mirror passes most light to the sensor while directing a fraction to the phase-detection AF module — enabling continuous phase-detection AF tracking throughout a burst without mirror blackout. The 24.3MP full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor represented Sony's highest resolution full-frame output at launch and remains a usable professional resolution.
The 24.3MP full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor pairs with the BIONZ processor. The dedicated 102-point phase-detection AF module operates continuously via the SLT mirror path; 19-point focal-plane phase AF provides additional low-light sensitivity. Burst shooting runs at 6fps (with AF tracking) or 10fps (speed priority, fixed focus). 5-axis SteadyShot INSIDE IBIS is built in. Full HD AVCHD video records at 60i and 24p. The XGA OLED Tru-Finder EVF provides 2.36M-dot resolution. Dual card slots: one Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo and one SD/SDHC/SDXC. ISO 100-25600 native. At approximately 733g with battery. Single SD slot in the Sony-standard slot plus Memory Stick.
The SLT architecture's primary practical advantage over a traditional DSLR mirror is continuous phase-detection AF throughout a burst — the mirror does not lift for each exposure, so the AF module tracks uninterrupted at 6fps. This provides more reliable subject tracking during action sequences than traditional DSLR designs where AF updates only between exposures. The trade-off is approximately 1/3 stop of light loss from the translucent mirror, which reduces the effective maximum ISO relative to a lossless sensor path. The 5-axis IBIS covers all rotation and translation axes for both stills and video stabilisation.
On the used market the Sony A99 is the most capable A-mount body available at its price tier. Condition checks: the SLT translucent mirror for any haze, delamination, or surface damage — it is not replaceable in the field; XGA OLED EVF for any burn-in or dead pixels; Memory Stick and SD slot contacts; IBIS operation. The Sony A99 II (2016) provides significant improvements including 79-point phase AF coverage and 4K video at a higher price. Compatible with all Sony A-mount and Minolta A-mount lenses with full AF and IBIS function.