Last Updated on 08/31/2012 by Chris Gampat
You may remember we talked about the reinvention of the DP series with the Sigma DP1 Merrill. This fantastic camera received an overhaul and a re-branding in honor of the inventor of the Foveon sensor, Dick Merrill. The new DP1 M features Sigma’s latest sensor. It also has a new lens for the full APS-C size of the sensor. This new generation compact camera will hit US shelves in mid-September and cost $999.
The Sigma DP1 Merrill differs from its predecessor, the DP1x, because its lens now includes one “F” Low Dispersion glass element to correct aberrations, and its resolution has grown by moving from Foveon’s 14.6-megapixel APS-C size image sensor to the 46-megapixel APS-C image sensor found in the company’s flagship SLR, the Sigma SD1 Merrill. The full-color Foveon X3 direct image sensor ensures outstanding resolution, richly gradated tones and images with a three-dimensional feel. A focus ring and custom Quick Set (QS) mode also improve the user interface. The DP1 Merrill also has a telecentric 19mm F2.8 lens, which is the equivalent to a 28mm lens on a 35mm SLR camera.
Other features of the Sigma DP1 Merrill camera include:
• A dual, three-layer responsive ultimate (TRUE II) engine that now incorporates two TRUE II processors to improve the processing speed and overall quality of the final image
• RAW and JPEG format recording to retain the full image detail of the utmost quality captured through the direct image sensor, as well as a JPEG recording format for convenience
• Sigma Photo Pro processing software to convert RAW data quickly and easily
• Manual focus for use when autofocus or focus-lock is not desired
• Easy-to-use auto focus with a “nine-point select mode” which can select the desired focusing point from nine different frames, and a “free move mode” that allows shooters to select their desired focusing point
• An advanced user interface complete with a custom QS menu and the metallic command dial to improve usability
• Continuous shooting capabilities to capture up to seven RAW images per sequence
• A large, highly visible, three-inch TFT color LCD monitor for great visibility
• A hot shoe for the use of the dedicated external flashgun EF-140 DG (optional)
• Movie mode for movie recording with VGA (640×480) size, with 30 shooting frames per second
What it all means is a well built, nimble feature rich and powerful camera will be available soon. I shot with the DP2 many moons ago and I was impressed then. The specs of the Sigma DP1 Merrill are uncanny. I know it will blow minds. You can get more information from www.sigmaphoto.com. Prepare or camera lust.