Sigma lets you test drive the dp2 Quattro with its new “Try Before You Buy” program

If you're a gearhead like us, then you'll surely fancy Sigma's unique, three-layere Foveon sensor, which received a big update earlier this year with the dp2 Quattro being the first in a trio of new 'dp' cameras. Besides the updated sensor, the three cameras come with a very unique new design that make them stand out from the crowd of fixed-lens large-sensor compacts, and perhaps, leave you scratching your head.

Sigma, however, is convinced that you'll love the dp2 Quattro once you've tried it, which is why it offering a "Try Before You Buy" program that starts today, July 1st 2014, and will run until the end of the month. If you'd like to experience the new dp2 Quattro camera and the new Foveon Quattro sensor first-hand, you can register with Sigma and receive a camera for testing before it's officially released.

In order to do so, you'll have to provide your credit card information so Sigma can bill you for the $999 price of the camera, which you'll be refunded once you send the camera back after the five day testing period. During and after your testing period, you have the possibility to share your experinces with other dp2 testers via Sigma's website.

So, why choose a Sigma dp-series camera? The main reason to go for one over comparable large-sensor fixed-lens compacts is the fact that the lenses of the dp-series cameras have been developed in order to yield the best possible results with the Quattro sensor. The sensor, which is APS-C-sized, has the potential to deliver medium format image quality due to its unique architecture, and Sigma claims its detail reproduction is similar to a regular (Bayer pattern) 39 megapixel sensor. Add to that the unique color reproduction of Sigma's Foveon sensor, and you've got quite a bit going for the dp-series.

At a price point of almost US$1,000, the decision to go for the dp2 Quattro, the first model to be available, is not an easy one, especially considering that the camera limits you to using its fixed 30mm (45mm-equivalent) f/2.8 lens. But if you've been fancying the idea of getting a Sigma dp2 Quattro, now is your chance to take a first look at it and decide whether it's the right camera for you. For more details, please visit Sigma's website.