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Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips

 

Sigma DP2x

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The Sigma DP2x is a 14MP compact camera  with an APS-C image sensor, which is roughly the same size as found in DSLRs like the Canon 7D.

This newest iteration of the DP2 offers improved autofocus capabilities and incorporates Analog Front End (AFE), which converts full color data through the FOVEON X3 image sensor into a digital signal.  Sigma says that AFE “enables the camera to reproduce high definition and richly colored images.”

For those unfamiliar with the FOVEON image sensor, Sigma explains the DP2x’s functionality as follows:

The DP2x uses the same 14 megapixel (2,652×1,768×3 layers) direct image sensor as the SD14, SD15 and other DP series cameras. Utilizing the special features of silicon, which is penetrated to different depths by different wavelengths of light, this direct image sensor succeeds in full-color capture with the full RGB in a single-pixel location. Since the moire is not generated, use of a low-pass filter is not needed because full information of light and color can be captured with three-dimensional feeling.

The Sigma DP2x features a fixed 24.2mm f/2.8 lens, which is equivalent to the field of view of a 41mm lens on a full frame DSLR.  The lens is a new design and exclusive to the DP2x.  The DP2x allows for RAW image capture in order to make the most of the FOVEON X3 sensor and TRUE II image processor.

No word yet on price or availability.

See the full spec list below. [Read more…]

Fuji X100 Full Specs Released, Ships in March for $1200

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Fuji has made quite a show of its APS-C format, fixed lens X100 camera.  Today, Fuji dropped what should be its final press release on the X100, detailing availability, price and full spec list.

The 12.3MP Fuji X100 should be available in March 2011 at an initial retail price of $1199.95.  Check availability at B&H Photo and Amazon.com.

Check out additional photos, the press release and full specifications below. [Read more…]

Olympus SZ-10 18x Superzoom

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The Olympus SZ-10 is a 14MP superzoom camera, sporting a 18x optical zoom lens (28-504mm equivalent).   The SZ-10 also features a high resolution 3-inch LCD (460k-dot res) and captures 720p HD video.

Perhaps the biggest feature on the SZ-10 is the fact that it shrank from past superzoom models.  The camera is quite compact for your typical superzoom camera model, measuring only 1.5-inches thick.

The Olympus SZ-10 carries a retail price tag of $249.99 and should be available in March.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

Sony Opens E-Mount for Third-Party Lenses

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Sony has announced that it will be unlocking the keys to its popular NEX camera models (i.e., the E-mount specifications) and allow third-parties to develop lenses for the system.  What’s more, Sony won’t charge them a dime.

Given the initial popularity of cameras like the NEX-5 and NEX-VG10, I would expect to see plenty of lenses down the road from the likes of Sigma and others.  In fact, Sony is touting the endorsement of the move by Sigma, Zeiss, Cosina, and Tamron.

No specifics on what glass will be the first on store shelves, but my guess is that these guys already have stuff in progress.

Any Sony NEX owners out there with a wish-list of lenses from Zeiss, Sigma, etc.?

Pentax Announces Silver K-5 DSLR and Lenses

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Pentax has announced a limited edition of its K-5 DSLR, along with three prime lenses: (1)  the DA 12mm f/3.2 AL; (2) the DA 40mm f/2.8 and (3) the DA 70mm f/2.4.

The limited edition Pentax K-5 has a silver body and a revised grip.  It will cost $1700 for the body only and should be available in April.

Pentax has not provided info on the availability or pricing for the limited edition lenses (also silver in color) other than that they are TBA.

Pentax Optio WG-1 and WG-1 GPS

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Pentax has announced a new rugged camera model, the WG-1, and a GPS-capable version, aptly named the WG-1 GPS.

The new camera sports a 14MP sensor, 5x optical zoom (28-140mm equivalent), 720p HD video capture, and a 2.7-inch LCD.  Of course, as a rugged model, the WG-1 covers the standard “rugged” specs:  waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof to 5 feet, freezeproof to 14-degrees F and dustproof.

The WG-1 carries a retail price tag of $349.95, while the GPS-enabled model runs $399.95.  Both models should be available in April.  Check availability for the WG-1 at Amazon.com.