I've tested this adapter on the NEX-7
and 5 different Sony lenses so far, along with using the Sony A580 as the ‘standard' for AF speed
and accuracy. Right now, with my limited use, the LA-EA2 adapter really works well, in fact, I find no difference
in focusing speed and accuracy between the NEX-7 with adapter and Sony A580.
In the box is a nice zippered hardcase, with caps and instruction manual in multiple
languages.
Here are a few specs on the little adapter.
Focus System
: TTL phase detection system
Focus Points : 15-point AF system with 3 cross sensors
AF Modes : Continuous AF,
Single-shot
Dimensions (Approx.) : Approx.3 1/8 x 3 1/2 x 1 3/4 inches (78.5 x 86.5 x 44mm) (WxHxD)
Weight (Approx.)
: 7.1 oz (200g)
Observations:
Made in Japan.
Perfectly
matches the finish of Sony black speckled lenses, like the 16-50mm F/2.8.
Build quality is very good.
If you look closely, you'll see a very small crop to the adapter image, but this is not noticeably unless you overlay
the images, it's that small.
Magnified focus view doesn't work, although the ‘peaking' feature
works in the normal screen view. Apparently the adapter is not set up for manual focusing.
Focusing
on some lenses results in subtle focusing differences from the A580 in distance, meaning the adapter is apparently reacting
to a very slight increase/decrease in length from lens to sensor. This is only noticeably if you use manual focus
extensively, and know where the lens usually focuses properly at when using a DSLR/SLT.
Camera battery
life seems about the same with, or without the adapter. Some people are reporting very low battery life using this
adapter, but that's BS.
Lenses tested with adapter and NEX-7.
Sony 70-400mm G SSM. Perfect accuracy, even at 400mm, that's better than my A900.
Sony DT 16-50mm F/2.8 SSM. The same as on the A580.
Sony CZ DT 16-80mm F/3.5-4.5. The same as on the A580.
Sony DT 35/1.8 SAM. The same as on the A580.
Sigma 10-20mm F/4-5.6. More accurate on the NEX-7 than on the A580.
Results are from my camera/adapter/lens combo,
your results may vary.
Conclusion.
The Sony LA-EA2 adapter really does work as advertised, giving you full phase detection AF with your NEX camera body and ‘a' mount lenses.
It's especially useful for smaller zooms, like the CZ 16-80mm, and prime lenses like the 35/1.8, or 85/2.8 which are not
yet available in the NEX ‘e' mount. The Adapter does add bulk to the package, and even more so when using large
lenses, so at some point you might just use a regular DSLR or SLT as the additional size and weight aren't so noticeable.