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 7.8ฮผm. 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 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]