Sigma DP2 Compact Camera Available to Pre-Order Sigma DP2 Hits Amazon

The Sigma DP2 compact camera, successor to the Sigma's much praised DP1,
which comes with Sigma's new TRUEII (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate
Engine) image processor and SLR sized 14 megapixel image sensor has just
become available to pre-order via Amazon.

Sigma DP2 Key Features (as officially detailed by Sigma):

SLR-Sized Full-Color Image Sensor

The size of the image sensor used in the DP2 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 7.8?m. The large photodiodes deployed
at a large pixel pitch capture pure, rich light efficiently and give the
DP2 its high resolution and richly-graduated tones.

The DP2 uses the same 14 megapixel (2,652×1,768×3 layers)
direct image sensor as the SD14 and DP1. 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. Since the moire is
not generated, use of a low-pass filter is not needed because full
information of light and color can be captured with three-dimensional
feeling.
TRUE II Image Processing Engine

The DP2 incorporates TRUE II which is an improved version of TRUE
(Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine), the world's first image
processing engine suited for the three silicon embedded layer direct
image sensor. The unique image-processing algorithm, which has been
developed throughout the development of the SD series digital SLR
cameras and DP1, is incorporated into TRUE II .

24.2mm F2.8 Lens Designed Exclusively for the DP2

The DP2 is equipped with a 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a
35mm SLR camera, which has been designed exclusively for DP2. Two molded
glass aspherical lenses provide superior image quality. The Super Multi
Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. This lens and SLR-sized image
sensor combination provides natural shallow depth-of-field and
attractive bokeh effect.

RAW Format Recording

The DP2 includes a RAW recording mode for retaining full image capture
detail of the utmost quality plus a JPEG recording format for
convenience. The RAW data format uses lossless compression for more
compact, yet uncompromised, data files. The RAW data format of the DP2
keeps brightness and color data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on
interpolation. Each pixel location captures the full color of RGB data
which, when processed in Sigma Photo Pro, will preserve the balance of
the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality.

Exclusive Sigma Photo Pro Software (Supplied with the DP2)

The DP2 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 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. The photographer can make changes easily and quickly by
simply adjusting the slider controls within the software.
Compact and Lightweight Body

The DP2 has compact dimensions of 113.3mm/4.5in (W) x 59.5mm/2.3in (H) x
54.6mm/2.1in (D). Its compact body and lightweight design makes it easy
to carry everywhere.

Three Metering Modes and Four Exposure Modes

The DP2 has three metering modes, Evaluative Metering, Center Weighted
Average Metering and Spot Metering. It is also possible to select the
exposure mode from Program AE, Shutter Priority AE, Aperture 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 DP2 is equipped with a pop up (manual) built-in flash. 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.

Manual Focus

Manual Focus is available for use when autofocus or focus lock is not
effective. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise
focusing.

Large 2.5 TFT Color LCD Monitor

The DP2 camera features large 2.5 inch 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 DP2 camera is equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of the
dedicated external flashgun EF-140 DG (optional) as well as Sigma
electronic flashguns for SD series such as EF-50

Currently there's no word concerning the official shipping date of the
Sigma DP2, however, if you want to ensure you get your hands on this
wholly desirable compact you can now pre-order the Sigma DP2 from Amazon
for just shy of $650.