Nikon has been dodging a direct answer to the question of sensor origins of its D3x since the camera was announced.  Nikon has finally admitted that Sony manufactured the sensor; however, Nikon points out that it designed the sensor.  Here’s Nikon’s own words:

The Nikon D3X’s 24.5-megapixel FX-format (35.9 x 24.0mm) CMOS sensor was developed expressly for the D3X in accordance with Nikon’s stringent engineering requirements and performance standards, with final production executed by Sony. Featuring refined low-noise characteristics, 12 and 14 bit output, Live View capability and more, the D3X’s unique sensor design was carefully blueprinted to perform in perfect concert with proprietary Nikon technologies including EXPEED Image Processing and the Scene Recognition System. Meticulous efforts allowed the sensor to become one of the many essential components and technologies which contribute to the D3X’s superior image fidelity.

[via Rob Galbraith]

So, is Nikon saying that this sensor is a different one than the one found in the Sony A900?

Stay tuned to Photography Bay’s Nikon D3x Reviews and Resources for the latest news and reviews.