The new Sigma dp1 Quattro incorporates a fixed 19mm F2.8 leaf-shutter lens (equivalent to a 28mm lens on a 35mm SLR), optimized for the Quattro sensor to maximize the sensor performance and sharpness from corner to corner.
Unique among image sensors, the Foveon direct image sensor is similar to traditional colour film in that its multiple layers capture all of the information that visible light transmits. Along with Sigma’s proprietary image processing technology, this sensor produces incredible resolution with richer, deeper colours and a breathtaking realism.
Every aspect of the new dp1 Quattro has been completely redesigned when compared to the previous dp1 camera, from the sensor and processing engine to the lens and body. The dp1 Quattro embodies Sigma’s philosophy of creating cameras that deliver the highest level of performance to produce photographic works of art.
Pricing for the dp1 Quattro has not yet been announced, but availability is expected in December.
Significant features of the new dp1 Quattro include:
SPECIAL FEATURES
Newly developed Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor now featuring 39 megapixel-equivalent ultra-high resolution
The newly developed Foveon X3 Quattro, shared with the dp2 Quattro, is the latest generation of this unique sensor. While retaining the distinctive characteristics of its predecessors, it offers an even higher level of image quality. In addition to 30% higher resolution, the volume of image data has become lighter, enabling much faster image processing and lower current consumption.
Optimized for image quality with 19mm F2.8 lens
Thanks to its optimized design featuring a 19mm fixed focal length lens (28mm full-frame equivalent) and integrated body, the dp1 Quattro offers both sensor and lens performance at the highest level. The 19mm lens features FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass, equivalent to fluorite, and has two glass aspherical lenses to minimize optical aberrations. Along with its exceptional handling performance with a balanced shape, layout, and weight distribution, the highly intuitive dp1 Quattro allows photographers to concentrate fully on photography and leverage the camera’s potential to produce outstanding images.
Newly developed TRUE III image processing engine
The dp2 Quattro features the newly developed TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) III. Thanks to new refinements, it is the ideal engine for processing the rich and complex image data produced by the new-generation Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. A proprietary algorithm allows ultrafast processing of an immense volume of image data without any deterioration of the final images. The result is a high-definition image with outstandingly rich colour detail and an almost three-dimensional appearance.
The world’s only image capture system to use vertical colour separation technology
Leveraging the light absorption characteristics of silicon, the sensor comprises three layers of photodiodes, each at a different depth within the silicon and each corresponding to a different RGB colour. Almost all other image sensors are mosaic sensors, which use an array of RGB colour filters in a single horizontal plane to capture colour information. Each pixel is assigned only one of the three colours and cannot capture all three colours at once. In contrast, the Foveon direct image sensor captures colour vertically, recording hue, value, and chroma accurately and completely for each pixel.
In the Foveon direct image sensor, there are no colour filters, which cause a loss of information transmitted by light. Moreover, there is no low-pass filter needed to correct the interference caused by a colour filter array. Finally, unlike the data from other sensors, which requires artificial interpolation to “fill in” missing colours, the data from the Foveon direct image sensor is complete for every single pixel and requires no interpolation. The unique technological principle of this sensor produces consistently outstanding image quality.
Accelerometer enables panning photography in both vertical and horizontal positions
The Optical Stabilizer system incorporates the use of an accelerometer for accurate positioning of the stabilizing element. OS Mode 1 is suitable for general handheld photography, while Mode 2 is ideal for panning and tracking of motorsports or birds in flight. The accelerometer works to detect horizontal or vertical camera positioning, and compensates accordingly.
Compatibility with new Sigma Teleconverters, maintaining autofocus at F8.
When used with Sigma’s new 1.4x teleconverter (TC-1401), this lens becomes a MF 210-840mm F7-9 hyper-telephoto lens and may maintain autofocus up to F8 when used with compatible camera bodies. With the Sigma 2x teleconverter (TC-2001), this lens becomes a MF 300-1200mm F10-12.6 hyper-telephoto lens.
Magnesium Body Construction
A solid, lightweight magnesium alloy framework is incorporated into the camera body. Providing rigidity and strength, the body is highly reliable and superior as a photographic tool.
9 point Auto Focus with Manual Focus override
The Sigma dp1 Quattro features 9 auto focus points with a user-friendly “Free move mode” allowing the photographer to select their desired focus points. The camera also features Face Detection AF, AF Limit Mode and Shutter Priority AF. By selecting “AF+MF mode”, the camera’s focus can be manually overridden by rotating the focus ring on the front of the lens while using the magnified LCD screen to judge critical focus.
Capable of 7 frames continuous shooting
A large volume memory buffer enables the camera to capture up to 7 RAW images per sequence in continuous shooting mode at High size. Using the high-speed data transfer and TRUE III image processing, the Sigma dp1 Quattro features a continuous shooting speed of up to 3.5 frames per second.
14-bit RAW data with X3F file format
RAW data records the most information possible from the Quattro sensor into Sigma’s X3F raw file format. By using 14-bit technology, the camera’s TRUE III image processor is capable of producing 16,384 tones. This helps the dp1 Quattro achieve excellent tones and smooth gradation of subjects, excellent for landscape and portrait photography.
Exclusive Sigma Photo Pro Software
Sigma Photo Pro software makes it possible to process RAW/X3F data with easy to operate sliders for digital image development. The software is capable of producing stunning tones and gradation for which the Foveon X3 Quattro sensor is famed.
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
Lens Hood: LH4-01 – Designed for the Sigma dp1 Quattro, this bayonet-style lens hood blocks out extraneous light and reduces flare and ghosting.
View Finder: VF-31 – This high-performance Albada inversed Galilean type Finder mounts to the camera’s hot shoe. It replicates the 19mm field-of-view and offers a framing guide for composing images without the color LCD
monitor.
LCD View Finder: LVF-01 – Attaching to the LCD display of the dp Quattro cameras, the LCD viewfinder blocks external light. Exclusively designed for the Quattro series, the LCD View Finder incorporates high performance lenses and coatings for clear visibility. It provides 2.5 times magnification of the LCD and allows photographers to check critical focus in the field. It also features a diopter adjustment range from -2 to +1.
Cable Release Switch: CR-31 – The CR-31 cable release allows photographers to trigger the camera by connecting to the camera’s integrated USB terminal. Useful when using the camera on a tripod, especially with slow shutter speeds.
Camera Case: HC-21 – This jacket camera case can be attached to the camera while photographing. It perfectly fits the contours of the camera, improving usability of the camera while offering additional protection.
AC Adapter: SAC-6 – It is possible to power the Sigma dp1 Quattro from a wall outlet using the AC Adapter. This helps when using your camera for an extended period of time, or in a tethered shooting environment. AC Adapter SAC-6 is used together with DC connector CN-21, included in the kit.d in the kit.