Since you asked, Bob ...
I have found the
α850 to be like a big brother to the
α700. It's not quite as quick as the littler guy, but offers nearly identical operation and control. There are added features, such as 'Intelligent Preview' and "AF Micro-Adjust" (designed for use with SONY, Minolta and K-M lenses), too.
If you are looking for rapid frame rate from the camera, this is not the one to buy. That would be the pricier
α900 @ 5 fps. But, if you want a full frame shot for your wide angle lenses ... and are shooting architecture ... this is your baby. Bursting is quite unusual while shooting architecture and landscape.
It holds in your paw bigger than the
α700 ... and weighs a little bit more. It does NOT have a built-in flash, so not having that "convenience" takes a little getting used to.
The new
HVL-F20AM takes its place and will serve a sync flash for wireless flash operation.
The RAW images are enormous and you need to be ready for that with a place for storage. Easily twice the size of an a700 shot.
The
CZ 135mm f/1.8 returns to being a "portrait" lens when mounted on the
α850/
α900 body. A finer lens I have yet to use. Personally, I find the
α850 and
α700 a terrific combination, if you already have the
α700.
The APS-C for speed and the Full Frame for the real width out of your lenses. The
α850 will mount your existing APS-C lenses you have and provide identical shots to the
α700, in the APS-C Compatibility Mode, so it could replace the
α700 in that regard. What you would lose would be that nice burst speed, but if that is an issue, go for the hopping
α900, instead, and get it.
If you feel your lenses have not been wide enough for you ... here's your answer, without having to buy new glass ... provided they are Full Frame lenses and not APS-C lenses.
But, when you are looking long ... it makes a great counterweight!
And as far as a decent color image ... yeah, it does that, too ...
SONY a850 w/ TAMRON SP AF 28-75mm f/2.8 XR Di LD Aspherical (IF)
@ 70mm - f/9 - 1/200 sec - ISO-800 - CWA - Daylight - M - Handheld - Creative style = "Autumn Leaves"