Olympus E-10A 4 megapixel sensor and unique SLR optics make for a major coup for Olympus! (Final review, based on full-production model.)(Next): Executive Overview>> Page 1:Intro and HighlightsReview First Posted: 1/26/2001 |
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True 4 megapixel sensor for resolution to 2240x1680 |
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High-quality 4x zoom lens, 35-140mm equivalent | |
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Unique SLR design with beam-splitter for live LCD preview | |
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Very flexible exposure controls, good user interface | |
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Amazing low light capability |
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Manufacturer Overview
As this article was written, Olympus already had one of the broadest digicam
lines in the industry. In rapid succession though, they announced the C-2100
Ultra Zoom, the E-100RS ultra high-speed digicam, and the E-10 four megapixel
SLR (the subject of this review). What we see in each of these cameras is
a product developed to appeal to specific market segments, rather than being
just another "general purpose" digicam.
The E-10 is clearly intended to compete at the highest image quality levels
of the digital SLR field, thanks to its true 4 megapixel CCD resolution.
Our initial impressions from our "First Look" review of a preproduction
prototype were borne out by subsequent testing of a full-production model:
This is indeed a very capable digicam, with excellent image quality, both
in terms of resolution and color. With an initial selling price of $1,999
US, the E-10 is thousands cheaper than most competing models, and actually
outperforms them in several areas. After spending a week or so with the camera,
we found ourselves liking it quite a bit: The combination of high image quality,
good optics, extraordinary low light capability, and a relatively compact
design (smaller than many film-based SLRs) added up to quite a package. We
suspect there will be a lot of people for whom $4,000 plus for one of the
competing SLR models (including a lens) would be an uncomfortable stretch,
but who'll happily find the $2,000 for an E-10. Olympus could have a real
winner here - Read on for the details...
High Points
- 4.0 megapixel CCD delivering up to 2240 x 1680 pixel
resolution images.
- 4x professional ED (Extra Dispersion) glass 9 to 36mm
lens (35 to 140mm equivalent on a 35mm camera).
- Optical, SLR viewfinder with focusing screen and full
information display.
- 1.8 inch (4.5cm) LCD monitor that tilts upwards.
- Auto and manual focus.
- Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and
Manual exposure modes.
- Aperture adjustable from f/2.0 to f/11.0.
- Shutter speeds from eight to 1/640 seconds, with a
Bulb setting for longer exposures.
- Adjustable white balance with three operating modes
(Auto, Quick Reference, and Preset).
- Built-in, popup flash with five modes.
- Hot shoe and PC sync terminal for mounting an
external flash unit.
- Sequence, Time-Lapse, and Auto Bracketing shooting
modes.
- Adjustable ISO and metering modes.
- Infrared and wired remote control capabilities.
- Sturdy, cast aluminum body.
- Uncompressed TIFF, Olympus RAW data, and JPEG file
formats (Olympus RAW PhotoShop plug-in included).
- Images stored on SmartMedia or CompactFlash Type II
memory cards, with a 32 megabyte SmartMedia card included.
- 32 megabyte buffer built-in for quick burst
photography.
- DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) compatibility.
- Power from two lithium CR-V3 batteries, four AA
alkaline, NiCd, or NiMH, or optional lithium polymer battery.
- USB cable for high speed connection to a computer.
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