DYNAX Generation I

Generation I : The era of the AF SLR begins

When the 7000 made its debut in 1985, its revolutionary technology caused a sensation in the world of photography because it ushered in the era of the autofocus (AF) SLR. AF technology was exceedingly difficult to achieve at the time; today, it is regarded as a standard feature.

7000 (1985)

The SLR was originally viewed as a camera for professionals and advanced users. To make it more widely accessible and easier to use, Minolta engineers spent over four years developing an AF system. When the 7000 was launched, it proved to be the first serious 35mm SLR camera featuring an AF system in the world.

Foreseeing an all-digital future, Minolta prepared for it by changing the camera lens-mount to the α mount, which Sony inherited and has renamed the Sony α mount. As the 7000 was the first successful, all-digitally controlled AF camera, it was enthusiastically received by photo-hobbyists and camera lovers everywhere. After its launch, it became recognized as the camera that triggered a booming business for AF SLR cameras.

9000 (1985)

This model targeted the professional photographer and development was already underway when the 7000 was launched. Its unveiling demonstrated that AF technology was no novelty, but had become an indispensable feature for SLR cameras.

The 9000 was a pleasure to operate because it included a fast AF sequence, as well as excellent performance, functions and operability that met the higher-level requirements of professionals. The system was also designed with future expansion in mind--expandability in the use and control of flash being one notable area. The concept of system expandability in SLR cameras is taken for granted today, but was considered ahead of its time when the 9000 was released.