Sea & Sea A1, A7R V, A7S III, A7R IV, A7 IV, A9 II Universal Housing
Universal compatibility with several Sony Alpha series cameras
Universal Compatibility
The Sea & Sea MDX-αU Universal Housing for Sony Alpha Series mirrorless cameras is a versatile housing compatible with the Sony A1, A9 II, A7S III, A7 IV, A7R IV & A7R V. It comes in two different color options (black and silver) and, as with all Sea & Sea housings, has excellent ergonomcs and build quality. Upgraded with their new silicone grips for better handling and the SA8 fixed ball base for attaching lighting options.
*We are awaiting confirmation from Sea & Sea as to whether this housing will fit the Sony A9 III camera.
Large Rear Window for increased compatibility
To ensure its compatibility with a range of cameras in Sony's Alpha Series lineup, Sea & Sea has increased the size of the back panel in comparison to its other models. The large LCD screen viewing panel has always been a popular feature of Sea & Sea housings, and now it's even larger, giving photographers a better view of their camera's LCD screen and a better view inside the housing. This also allows for sustainable design for future camera models
Fiber Optic Cover
The redesigned fiber optic cable cover means cables are secure with less risk of falling out. The cover protects the light-emitting panels and cable terminals - the cover is also secured to the housing to prevent loss. The housing works with Sea & Sea TTL flash triggers (optional) to provide fast, accurate strobe lighting.
Leak Alarm Unit now included
Another difference between this new universal housing and other models is that the leak alarm unit now comes as standard instead of as an optional extra. It provides an early detection for leaks and prevents accidents such as underwater flooding. It also gives you the peace of mind that your camera is safe inside the housing prior to entry.
Strobe Connectivity System
It offers 3 optional strobe connection for your shooting requirements:
1. Optical TTL Connector, not only it emits a light signal to fire the strobe but also performs TTL auto light control.
2. Manual Optical Flash Trigger, for shooters who prefer shooting in manual and use fiber optic cables as connection.
3. Sync/Electrical Cords (dual or single).
All controls are marked with glow-in-the-dark markers for easy use in low-light conditions.
Sony A7R V in Review: Underwater in Raja Ampat
This year's top underwater camera is the Sony A7R V. The A7R V is Sony's response to the market-leading Canon EOS R5 as a worthy successor to the A7R IV. The Sony A7R V has the same ultra-high resolution 61 megapixel sensor as the A7R IV and is priced similarly to the Canon R5 at $3898 for the body. A new AI autofocus processor, 8K/24p & 4K/60p video recording, and better 5-axis in-body image stabilization are a few of the camera's notable improvements. With these capabilities, the camera will certainly be able to compete in the high-end professional market.
With great excitement we were able to take the SonyA7R V on our latest Bluewater Travel photoworkshop in Raja Ampat. The results speak for themselves.
For a more in depth review, please read our full underwater review of the Sony A7R V.
An octopus and coral grouper photographed with the Sony A7R V, Canon 8-15mm fisheye lens, Sigma MC-11 adapter, and dual Ikelite DS 230 strobes. 1/200, f/16, ISO 640
Beautiful soft corals at Four Kings, Misool photographed with the Sony A7R V, Canon 8-15mm fisheye lens, Sigma MC-11 adapter, and dual Ikelite DS 230 Strobes. f/16, 1/125, ISO 320
Original 61 megapixel photo of a ladybug amphipod in a tunicate
The Sea & Sea Sony Universal housing video review:
Recommended Underwater Strobes
Sea & Sea YS-d3 II (Read our review of the Sea & Sea YS-D3 Strobes)
Sea & Sea YS-D3 Duo (Read about the our First look using ther Strobes Underwater)
Scubalamp D-Pro (Read our review of the Scubalamp D-Pro Strobes)
Further Bluewater Photo Sony Camera Reviews:
For indepth reviews on the various Sony cameras that fit in the Universal Housing:
Read our latest article if you wish to find out more details about the best settings for shooting the Sony A7R V underwater.
View alternative housing options for the Sony A7R V.
Other Features
- Made from corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy
- Port Lock System prevents ports from accidental opening or loosening.
- Lens Lock Release to easily change lenses without opening the housing
- Glow-in-the-dark controls
- Equipped with the Optical Viewfinder 0.5x as standard
- Tripod screw mount is located on the centre underside of the housing.
- Sea & Sea Universal Housing
- Handles
- Leak Alarm Unit with Pump
- Housing Body Cap
- Fiber Optic Cable Cover
- Silicone Grease
- O-Ring Remover - Hex Wrench
- Instructional Manual