Sony’s much-anticipated A7 II camera is coming to the US next month

Sony unveiled the A7 II camera earlier this month, offering an impressive follow-up to last year’s A7 model. Now, the Japanese company has finally revealed when the device will launch in the U.S. and how much it will cost. A7 II pre-sales kick off today, but the device won’t actually ship until Dec. 9. You can pick up Sony’s new camera for as little as $1,699, though that only covers the body. A full kit will run roughly $2,000. The A7 II is the first full-frame camera to offer 5-axis image stabilization, which should make it even easier to fire off stable video and photos. The new camera also offer improved auto-focus that’s 30 percent quicker, though it still packs the same 24.3-megapixel sensor. From a design perspective, the A7 II is also a step up from last year’s model with a revamped look and improved ergonomics. Sony employed more magnesium alloy, especially up front. There’s also a redesigned grip that’s easier to hold and an updatedshutter button placement. The redesign adds a bit of depth to the camera as well, and Sony is offering a new grip and lens carrying case for the A7 II as a result.