Ikelite Sony A9III Underwater Housing, 200DL

Description
Specifications
What’s in the Box
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Ikelite Sony A7R III, A7 III & A9 Underwater Housing

Read our Initial Thoughts and Review of the Sony A9 III for underwater photography

The Ikelite Sony A9 iii underwater housing is constructed from a white ABS-PC polycarbonate blend which is incredibly strong, corrosion free and lighter than many other housing options. It features a clear Lexan back plate allowing you an easy view inside the housing to confirm all controls line up properly and visually see if any leaks occur.

The unique rear seal design prevents accidental twisting or stretching of the o-ring for simple and confident assembly. Ikelite has eliminated the need for an o-ring groove or channel which can trap sand, dirt, or debris. Two double-passivated stainless steel locking lid snaps are simple to use and virtually unbreakable. The clear back allows you to see the o-ring form a solid, watertight seal as it closes.

A spare 1/2-20 threaded accessory port is included on the top of the housing near the bulkhead for expansion to future uses.

Like all of the Ikelite housings, this product is made in the USA, individually inspected for fit, and water pressure tested to 200 feet (60m).

Ikelite A9 III Housing Features:

Controls and Set-Up

The shutter and AF-ON controls are set apart by ergonomic and sensitive curved lever actuators. Both controls can optionally be extended using the Ikelite Shutter Trigger Extension # 4077.93 for more comfortable use when using a right-hand quick release handle. If you're not already using back button focus, we recommend learning this valuable trick.

All knob controls are upgraded to the new soft-touch design which gives you extra grip and feels good whether you're diving with gloves or bare hands. Push buttons have been redesigned to reduce weight and salt build-up. The back of the housing features laser engraved control symbols which will never fade or fall off.

Control placement mimics the way you use the camera on the surface to take advantage of muscle memory and avoid the need to re-learn your camera's controls.

The camera mount is front-loading for easy installation and removal. A small mounting plate attaches to the bottom of the camera and secures in the front of the housing. The camera mounting plate does not need to be removed from the camera for surface use or when changing the battery or memory cards. The mounting plate features a 1/4-20 threaded mount on the bottom so that it can be attached to a tripod on the surface.

TTL Exposure

This housings supports your choice of shooting with manual strobe exposure or adding a TTL converter depending on your application. The flash bulkhead is located on the top of the case to alleviate strain on the sync cord.

You can enjoy the fastest and most accurate TTL exposure on the market by adding the Ikelite ST1K TTL Kit for Sony Alpha # 46040 and a compatible Ikelite DS strobe. Exposure compensation can be used added or subtracted in the camera.

Reliable locking connectors between the hotshoe and bulkhead make it easy to install the optional ST1K TTL Kit for Sony Alpha or carry back up parts when traveling to remote locations.

Vacuum System

The included vacuum valve allows you to vacuum test the housing to check for leaks prior to putting your expensive equipment in the water. Combined with a full view of the camera and o-ring seal through the back of the housing, there is no greater assurance that your gear will be safe. Our signature open-groove design suspends the rear o-ring in a natural position that is easier to maintain and more reliable than forcing the o-ring into a channel.

Use of the vacuum valve requires a compatible Vacuum Pump with Gauge # 47011, sold separately.

Lens Ports

The Ikelite Sony A9 III underwater housing uses the new Dry Lock Port system, which was designed to be robust and easy to assemble. It is built for reliable performance in the most remote of locations, meaning that their are no complex moving parts that may break and jeopardize your shoot.

The new DL series ports are lighter and more adaptable than the original "Four Lock" port counterparts. They accommodate popular large diameter, full-frame lenses with ease. If you're considering shooting professional quality lenses like the Canon 16-35mm f/2.8L III, then the DL system is essential.

Most popular zoom lenses and select lens focus rings can be engaged using a simple yet effective gearing system that puts adjustment right at your fingertips. A large, soft-touch lobed knob on the side of the housing makes fine tuned adjustments a breeze. Zoom and focus gears differ depending on which lens you are using. All are lightweight and affordable. Refer to the DL System Port Chart for Sony Alpha Series to choose the correct gear. Zoom gears sold separately.

Handling & Travel

Overall the housing is over 1/2 pound lighter than the older Four Lock Ikelite housings. The new hard anodized aluminum base with quick release handle has also been streamlined for travel and is over 3/4 pound lighter than their previous DSLR tray and handle system. The Right-Hand Quick Release Handle # 4077.02 (sold separately) can be added or removed depending on how you want to shoot. The precision machined aluminum base features 1/4-20 tripod mounting sockets and additional mounting locations for future accessories. Plus, the base and handle can be quickly removed when breaking down your system for travel.

A 1/4-20 threaded mounting point is located front and center on the housing above the lens port mount. This mount can be used to attach lightweight accessories like a focus light or GoPro camera.

If you're shooting with two strobe or lighting arms, then a top handle can be added to make the system easier to carry to and from the dive site. Top handles are available in a Cable Grip # 4080.07 or Aluminum Top Handle # 4080.08. The rigid aluminum version provides additional mounting points for lighting and accessories.