For consumers who are looking at an evolution of the conventional point-and-shoot cameras, Sony has announced three new entry-level DSLRs - digital single-lens reflex cameras - which are being marketed as lightweight and user-friendly, with more guided operations. The cameras will hit the stores in mid-June.

Maintaining Sony's three-tier tactic for its low-end SLRs, the three new models are - Alpha DLSR-A230, Alpha DSLR-A330 and Alpha DSLR-380, which are the respective substitutes of the A200, A300 and A350.

All three new cameras boast of dual memory slots - one for SDHC cards and the other for Sony's proprietary Memory Stick Duo. Among the other specs common to the three models are - APS-C size CCD sensors; 2.7-inch LCD; Bionz image processors; lens mounts; built-in pop-up flash; hot shoe; and in-built image stabilization.

In addition, the three DSLR cameras feature a new software interface, which facilitates an inexpert SLR users understanding and adjustment of camera settings; as well as an HDMI video-out for previewing images on an HDTV.

Both the Alpha DSLR-A230 and Alpha DSLR-A330, priced at $550 and $650 respectively, feature a 10.1-megapixel resolution; while the $850-priced higher-end Alpha DSLR-A380 features a 14.2-megapixel resolution. The A230 and A380 will be available in black color only, whereas the A330 will be available in black as well as brown.