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Sigma's SD1 digital SLR. Photo provided by Sigma Corp. Sigma SD1: Flagship 15mpix Foveon DSLR announced
By
(Tuesday, September 21, 2010 - 11:54 EDT)

Japan's Sigma Corp. has today announced a new flagship digital SLR that marks a number of firsts for the company, and brings a new resolution high for its Foveon image sensor -- the Sigma SD1.

The Sigma SD1 is the company's first entry into the enthusiast DSLR market, and includes a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, and a newly developed APS-C sized Foveon X3 image sensor which is quite a bit larger than those used in past Foveon DSLRs. The new sensor in the SD1 outputs images with 15 megapixel (4,800 x 3,200 pixel) resolution -- an 81% increase in linear resolution as compared to the previous generation Foveon chip used in Sigma's SD15 DSLR.

Other significant features of the Sigma SD1 include dual TRUE II ("Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine") image processors, a new 11-point, twin cross-type, phase detection autofocus sensor, a pentaprism viewfinder with 98% coverage, and UDMA compatible Type-I CompactFlash storage.

Expected pricing and availability hadn't been disclosed at press time. For more details, read our Sigma SD1 preview.

Sigma SD1
Sigma's SD1 digital SLR. Photo provided by Sigma Corp.
General
Camera Type SLR
ManufacturerSigma
Model NumberNorth America: SD1
Dimensions5.7 x 4.4 x 3.1 in.
(146 x 113 x 80 mm)
Image Capture
Sensor TypeFoveon X3 CMOS
APS-C (approx. 1.14 in. diagonal)
15.40 megapixels (effective)
Filter TypeFull Color
Focal Length Multiplier1.50
Aspect Ratio3:2
Image Dimensions4800 x 3200 (15.4 megapixels)
3.9 megapixels
2.3 megapixels
1.2 megapixels
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderYes, SLR type; pentaprism, 98% coverage, 0.95x magnification, 18mm eyepoint, -3 to +1.5 diopter
LCD3.0 in. diagonal
460,000 dots (approx. 153,000 pixels)
Lens
Lens TypeInterchangeable Lens
Varies with lens, thread size unknown
Lens MountSIGMA SA bayonet
Focusing SystemPhase-detection with 11-point Twin Cross AF Sensor
Has AF assist lamp
Manual focus possible
Exposure
Exposure ModesAperture, Shutter, Manual
White BalanceManual
Internal FlashGuide Number: 11
Modes: S-TTL (17mm lens angle covered)
Flash Exposure Compensation+/- 3.0EV in 1/3EV increments
Storage
Recording MediumCompactFlash Type I
File SystemFAT16, FAT32
File Format< td> RAW (.X3F), JPEG
Connectivity
ComputerUSB 2.0 Full (LOW) Speed
Power
Battery TypeLithium-ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary
Product Bundle
Battery / Charger1 x Proprietary Lithium-ion rechargeable battery and charger
Other
Tripod MountYes, Metal
Remote ControlYes, Optional
Notes46-megapixel 24 x 16mm APS-C full-color sensor, weather-resistant magnesium alloy body, dual "TRUE II" image processing engines, 11-point Twin Cross AF sensor.
 

Original Source Press Release:

SIGMA SD1 announced

2010.9.21 -- The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new SIGMA SD1 Digital SLR Camera, incorporating a 46 megapixel (4,800×3,200×3 layers) 24×16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor.

The SIGMA SD1 is Sigma's flagship digital SLR model, adopting a lightweight yet solid magnesium alloy for its body and O-ring sealing connections to make a weather-resistant design throughout for use in harsh conditions.

The SIGMA SD1 incorporates a 24×16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor and dual “TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II ”image processing engines. The combination of the 46 megapixel (4,800×3,200×3 layers) sensor and dual TRUE II processing engines ensure the high resolution images are processed quickly with high definition and a smooth and subtle graduation of color.

The SD1 is SIGMA’s latest digital SLR camera which meets high requirements of professional and enthusiast photographers for all types of photography.

This product is showcased at Photokina 2010 in Koln, Germany.

SD1 Special Site: www.SIGMA-SD.com/SD1

[SIGMA SD1 Product Summary]

46 megapixel 24×16mm APS-C X3 Full-color image sensor
The 46 megapixel (4,800×3,200×3 layers) 24×16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor featured in the Sigma SD1 captures all primary RGB colors at each and every pixel location, ensuring the capture of full and complete color. Using three silicon-embedded layers of photo detectors, stacked vertically to take advantage of silicon’s ability to absorb red, green and blue light at different respective depths, it efficiently reproduces color more accurately, and offers sharper resolution, pixel for pixel, than any conventional image sensor. Since color moire is not generated, the use of a low-pass filter is not required, meaning light and color, generated by the 46 megapixel APS-C X3 direct image sensor is captured with a three-dimensional feel.

Dual TRUE II image processing engine
The SD1 incorporates a dual “TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II” image processing engine which improves the processing speed and overall quality of the final image. The unique image-processing algorithm provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images with richly graduated tones.

CF card
The SD1 adopts the TYPE I CF Card. This camera is compatible with the UDMA enabling fast processing of large amounts of data.
* It is not possible to use Microdrives and TYPE II CF cards.

11 point twin cross sensor
The autofocus system features an 11 point twin cross sensor. The shifted twin cross type sensor improves AF accuracy.

Magnesium body
The Sigma SD1 adopts a lightweight yet solid magnesium alloy body designed to withstand rough use and shocks in harsh conditions.

Weather-resistant design
Buttons and connections benefit from O-ring sealing connections to prevent dust and water getting inside the camera body.

Large, highly visible 3.0” TFT color LCD Monitor
The SD1 camera features a 3.0 inch TFT color monitor. This 460,000 pixel resolution LCD monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to check focusing and composition.

Optional lenses
The SD1 can be used with over 40 Sigma lenses such as ultra-wide, ultra-telephoto, macro and fisheyes which adopt the latest technology such as the FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have the performance equal to fluorite glass, SLD glass, Aspherical lenses, Sigma's own unique Optical Stabilizer function, Hyper Sonic Motor and Sigma's Super Multi Layer Coating. They meet the various and demanding requirements of all types of photographers.

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