The primary leap is made possible thanks to the application of several technologies into a higher-end camera, chief of which is the Translucent Mirror Technology (TMT), which combined with use of an electronic first curtain, allows the Sony A77 to capture 12 frames per second with less noise and vibration. Until Sony's introduction of TMT, the fastest frame rate while maintaining full autofocus was found in the $5,000 Canon 1D Mark IV, which is capable of 10 frames per second while maintaining autofocus tracking.
Ergonomics. Plainly put, the Sony A77 feels and looks a lot like older enthusiast-level Canon SLRs. Not a bad design to emulate. I'm not saying it's a clone, or even intentional, but as one intimately familiar with Canon SLRs, the design makes me feel right at home; there are also elements that remind me of some Nikon models. While I liked the Sony A700's decidedly machine-like feel, the A77 feels more organic, and more in-tune with the rest of the SLR market. The grip is tacky and soft, very comfortable against skin. There's a nice relief to guide the middle finger into a comfortable position, and a gentle ridge rises inside the grip to give the tips of the fingers better purchase. It's necessary when the camera is combined with the rather heavy 16-50mm lens. That's not a complaint, by the way. Heavy is good when you want stability, and this combo captures such detail it needs the heft to work against constant, subtle human motion. Its heft is due partly to the magnesium alloy molded body shells front and back, and the 16-50mm f/2.8 lens also contributes noticeably to the weight of the Sony A77.
