Sigma Compact DP1 14 Megapixel Compact Digital Camera

Sigma are poised to release their new DP1 compact digital camera next month which, according to Sigma, apart from offering a 14 mega pixel Foveon x3 direct image sensor, also packs in ‘the full spec of a DSLR into the body of a compact camera’.

Sigma DP1 Features:

SLR-Sized Image Sensor

The size of the image sensor used in the DP1 camera is 20.7mm x 13.8mm. It is approximately seven to twelve times larger than the 1/1.8inch to 1/2.5inch image sensors used in ordinary compact digital cameras. The pixel size of the image sensor is 7.8μm. The large photodiodes deployed at a large pixel pitch capture pure, rich light efficiently and give the DP1 its high resolution and richly-graduated tones.

Full-Colour Image Sensor

The DP1 uses the same 14 megapixel （2652×1768×3 layers）direct image sensor as the SD14. Utilizing the special features of silicon, which is penetrated to different depths by different wavelengths of light, this direct image sensor succeeds in full-color capture with the full RGB in a single-pixel location. Just like film, each photodiode captures all the RGB data, so no final-stage demosaicing is required. Brand-new “TRUE” image processing engine. The DP1 incorporates “TRUE” (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine), the world’s first image processing engine suited for Foveon three silicon embedded layer direct image sensor. The unique image-processing algorithm, which has been developed throughout the development of the SD9, SD10 and SD14 cameras, is incorporated into “TRUE”. It enables high-speed image processing and high image quality.

Exclusive 16.6mm F4 Lens

The DP1 is equipped with a 16.6mm F4 lens, equivalent to 28mm on a 35mm SLR camera, which has been designed exclusively for DP1. The large-diameter of aspherical glass provides low distortion and high contrast images. It also offers superior peripheral brightness. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting. It allows photographers to take pictures in difficult light conditions. This lens and SLR-sized image sensor provides natural shallow depth-of-field.

RAW Format Recording

The DP1 includes JPEG recording format for convenience plus a RAW data (X3F) recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality. The RAW data format provides pure data for high-resolution images, and uses lossless compression for more compact, yet uncompromised, data files. The RAW data format of the DP1 keeps brightness and color data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. Each pixel location captures the full color of RGB data, so in RAW, X3F files, brightness and color data can be kept in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. When the image is processed in Sigma Photo Pro, it will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality.

Exclusive Siga Photopro Software

The DP1 comes complete with SIGMA Photo Pro software, a RAW image developer that converts all RAW data quickly and easily. Adjustments can be made in three separate modes. The X3F Mode 3 stores the original settings of the image at the point of capture. In the Auto Adjustment Mode, the software analyzes and automatically makes adjustments to the RAW data. The Custom Mode allows the photographer to make individual adjustments (exposure, contrast, shadow, highlight, saturation, sharpness and fill-light for example). The photographer can make changes easily and quickly by simply adjusting the slider controls within the software. The X3F Mode stores the original settings of the image at point of capture. Photographers` personal modifications can be saved to the RAW, X3F file for future use. SIGMA Photo Pro supports 8-bit TIFF, 16-bit TIFF, and JPEG file formats. The JPEG can be saved as YCbCr 4:4:4. It is also possible to half, or double the resolution when processing the image.

Compact Lightweight Body

The DP1 has compact dimensions of 113.3mm/4.5in. (W) x 59.5mm/2.3in. (H) x 50.3mm/2.0in. (D) and weighs just 240g/8.5ounces. Its compact body and lightweight design makes it easy to carry everywhere.

3 Metering Modes / 5 Exposure Modes

The DP1 has three metering modes, Evaluative Metering, Center Weighted Average Metering and Spot Metering. It is also possible to select the exposure mode from Auto, Program AE, Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Priority AE or Manual. Exposure compensation can be set in 1/3 stop increments from +3.0 to -3.0 stops and an auto bracketing function is also available.
Pop up (manual) built-in flash The DP1 is equipped with a pop up (manual) built-in flash featuring guide number of 6 (ISO100 / m). It is possible to use Normal Flash, Red-Eye Reduction Flash and Slow Synchro Mode. It also features flash exposure compensation in 1/3 stops increments.

AF Area Selection

The AF area of the DP1 is equipped with 9 focusing points and it is possible to manually select the desired focusing point. The focusing distance is from 50cm to infinity, however, it is possible to shorten the minimum focusing distance to 30cm.

Manual Focus

Manual Focus is available for photographers who like to take more control, or for use when
autofocus or focus lock is not effective. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise focusing.

Movie Recording

It is possible to record 30fps movies with QVGA (320 x 240). The digital zoom function can be used during movie shooting. A 1GB memory card (not supplied) allows approximately 30 minutes of movie recording.

2.5″ TFT Colour Monitor

The DP1 camera features large 2.5 inch, 230,000 pixel TFT color LCD monitor. The LCD monitor displays 100% of the images, allowing the photographer to easily and accurately confirm the image compensation.

Hot Shoe

The DP1 camera is equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of the dedicated external flashgun
EF-140 DG (optional) or high performance view finder VF-11 (optional). EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG flashgun series can be used in manual mode only.

Dedicated Lens Hood

This optional lens hood blocks out extraneous light. A hood adapter, designed to accept a 46mm lens filter, is included.

Sigma’s DP1 is expected to be released next month for a purported retail price of around $550 (for which, we might add, you could avail yourself of a true DSLR).

Sigma [via Gizmodo]