In-Depth Hands-On Preview of Nikon D80 posted
By
Dave Etchells
(Wednesday, August 9, 2006 - 03:20 EDT)
We've only looked at a prototype sample of the Nikon D80 thus far, so can't comment yet on image quality, but man, this is some camera!
Given that it uses a close variant of the CCD sensor employed in the D200 though, it seems safe to assume that the Nikon D80's basic imaging characteristics will be at least roughly comparable. Taking that as a given, we're confident in predicting that the Nikon D80 will be an enormous hit. It delivers a huge step up in virtually every parameter relative to the earlier D70/D70S, and even the D100 owner on a budget may want to consider it over the the higher-priced D200.
In our limited time with it thus far, the Nikon D80 impressed us with its solid feel and responsive handling, as well as for just how much of the D200's capabilities it incorporates. The D200 was an enormously impressive camera, making it arguably more impressive that Nikon managed to cram so many of its advanced features into a body selling for $700 less. In the back-and-forth battle between the two giants, Nikon has once again thrown down the gauntlet to Canon, with an exceptionally capable camera (sporting an unusually capable kit lens as well), at a very aggressive price.
We'll have a complete set of test photos and performance details as soon as we can get our hands on a full production sample, but it seems safe to say that the Nikon D80 is going to be one of the more significant camera announcements of 2006. Read our in-depth hands-on preview of the Nikon D80 for all the details!
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