Sigma DP1 - Expert Reviews

Review summary: Sigma releases firmware version 1.04 for the DP1 camera which adds following new functions: • A customizing function has been added to the Digital Zoom button. • A feet indicator has been added to the scale bar in MF mode. Sigma also announces the new S

Review summary: We kicked-off this review by describing the DP1 as the most highly anticipated compact camera around, and that's not just because Sigma's kept us waiting since announcing it back in 2006. It's because the DP1 represents what enthusiasts have desired for m

Pros: DSLR sensor in compact body., Superb quality at low sensitivities., Good manual control and manual focusing., Hotshoe for flash and accessories.,

Cons: Very slow handling: startup, AF, write., Disappointing performance in low light., Pricier than top compacts or budget DSLRs., Basic movie mode.,

Verdict: The Sigma DP1 is certainly a unique camera and once again achieves the important goal of equipping a compact body with a DSLR-sized sensor. Use the camera in the right conditions and it really shines, delivering images with an astonishing degree of detail

Review summary: Following its 1.02 firmware update of last month, Sigma now releases firmware version 1.03 for the DP1 digital camera. This latest firmware update offers the following improvements: • ISO 50 has been added into the ISO setting. • Grid Display mode show

Review summary: Pro-compact with DSLR-sized sensor: the ultimate solution?

Pros: Decent lens quality User-controlled pop up flash

Cons: 14 megapixel sensor effectively only produces 4.7 megapixel image sizes Image quality lacks considering the technology Extensive shutter lag Expensive

Verdict: The Sigma DP1 aims to fill a gap, but most pros or high end enthusiasts may end up disappointed. On paper it all makes sense - take a compact body, add a big sensor, a prime lens and manual controls. Simple. In practice - the body's not that small, the se

Review summary: Just as you are ready to throw the camera away, you see the picture and you love it.

Pros: The picture quality is without peer amongcompact cameras. The larger sensor produces images comparable withthose from DSLRs. Superb sharpness, resolution, dynamic range andcolour in RAW at low ISO speeds. The lens is excellent.

Cons: The need to plunge into the menusystem for every control other than exposure compensation is apain. But the worst feature of this camera is the time that ittakes to write an image to the memory card. From pressing theshutter to finished write is 15 second

Verdict: This is not a pleasant camera to use.In many ways it feels like a throwback to the bad old days whencompacts were in their infancy. Responsive is not a word you woulduse for this unit. But then, just as you are ready to throw thecamera away, you see the p