Much ado about image grain.

[Anbesol]

If I remember right, the Sony "DRO" feature applies to JPEG images only and doesn't actually change the dynamic range of the camera. It just processes the RAW image to optimize and bring out the shadow and highlight detail that isn't visible in an unprocessed image. This feature is available with all DSLRs now under different names.

It does apply to Raws as well, it isn't just a jpeg engine. Youd be surprised how much range it does add.

It bends tonal curves at the top and bottom, making them less graduated - it is useless unless you intend on using that ultra-high and low detail, so for the most part it remains off or very low for me. But when I so choose, I can make a pseudo-HDR using a single shot thanks to the huge range potential.