Super Steady Shot question.

Particularly as it pertains to the A700, I am wondering at what shutter speed it becomes a benefit. I am currently really using it at up to 1/250th (depending on focal range), but is there really a benefit to using it at faster shutter speeds? Is there a negative to using it at faster shutter speeds? Using it on a tripod/monopod?

Mine is pretty much always on.. Even at faster shutter speeds it comes in handy especially at longer focal lengths. So it really depends on what focal length you're shooting at and how steady (or shaky) you personally are. There is no downside to using it at faster shutter speeds. The only time it becomes a factor is when using flash. I believe it flash sync is slower with SSS on as opposed to off. If you use HSS flash, no worries. I believe Sony says to turn off SSS when the camera is on a tripod, though I tend to forget to do so.