I already placed the following questions in another top Forum for the Sony SRL but sofar, no direct to-the-point answers have been generated.
One would expect Sony to finally become aware that the 'Dynamic Range Optimalization'-function makes the A700 unique among SRLs, and requires far better support from Sony itself!
It is impossible to understand why the information about DRO in the users manual is this limited and kind of primitive and as a consequence does not inspire to the application of this unique DRO-function.
As has become clear from threads in various sites, DRO is a very powerful means for obtaining images with amazing dynamic range. However DRO isn't just a simple camera setting but needs to be well understood to be successfully applied.

It would be nice if this new promising AlphaMountWorld forum would finally address this DRO subject in a practical way (not scientifically) and help A700 users to enjoy DRO

I hope that the following questions (in fact your answers!) will help to better understand the challenges and limitations of DRO.

1) DRO settings:
* Under what circumstances should the various DRO settings be used?
- Standard (D-R)
- Advanced auto (D-R+)
- Levels Lv1 through 5

2) DRO and ISO
* Is it better not to use ISO Auto in combination with DRO.
Should an ISO over 200 where possible be avoided?

3) DRO and RAW

There are contrary opinions regarding the use of DRO and RAW. However 'ajoe' in http://www.dyxum.com/dforum/forum_posts.asp?TID=23846&PN=3 , has in my view, clearly proved that one can and should use DRO with RAW.

* when should RAW with DRO be used and when not?

* what is the purpose of the (JPEG?) thumbnail (with DRO and RAW) on the camera LCD? I assume that since it is presented it should have a purpose? Is it correct that it can not be used to adjust the RAW?

* does the camera histogram (in DRO with RAW) offer any useful information?

4) DRO and RAW+J
* In what situation will it be advantageous to shoot DRO with RAW+J?

Is this more a 'safety net' in case the post processed RAW does not offer good results, so the (Fine) JPEG is the alternative?

5) DRO in X.Fine
* In what situation would it be better to just shoot DRO in X.Fine?

6) DRO Advanced Bracket shooting
In what situation should one use:
- BRK.D-R+ Hi, or
- BRK.D-R+ Lo

Thanks in advance for your response!