A very good choice in a medium level DSLR camera. It is generally considered to be on the same level with the Canon 40D and the Nikon D300. Viewfinder is outstanding, as is the high resolution LCD screen on the back. The resolution of the A700 at ISO 1600 tested out in Popphoto as better than the resolution of the Nikon D200 at ISO 100. Stabilization, dynamic range, colour and almost everything else is an upgrade from the A100.
Lenses are also great with a combination of Zeiss lenses that are top quality along with some uniquely designed Minolta lenses and Sony lenses.