Sigma has announced the development of two new mirrorless cameras, the sd Quattro H and sd Quattro, a replacement and update to the Sigma SD1 Merrill DSLR camera, which Sigma are calling Interchangeable Lens SLR Type Digital Cameras.
Both cameras feature a Foveon sensor, and Sigma SA lens mount to accept Sigma SA (DSLR) lenses. There is a high resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) on the rear, along with a wide screen. The two models both have Foveon sensors, with the Quattro H featuring a larger APS-H 1.3x crop sensor, and the Quattro features an APS-C 1.5x crop sensor.
Both cameras feature the Foveon Quattro sensor, which has 3 layers of pixels, with a high resolution top layer (blue), followed by red and green layers, so that the cameras capture full colour information at each pixel. Sigma has also announced a number of optional accessories, including a battery power grip (PG-41), with 200% more shooting time, an electronic flash (EF-630) with S-TTL automatic metering, a flash USB dock (FD-11) to enable firmware updates for the flash, and a cable release (CR-31).
Release date and price is yet to be confirmed.
The new Sigma sd Quattro cameras will be compatible with the new Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 Art lens.
From Sigma: The SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the SIGMA sd Quattro and SIGMA sd Quattro H, two new high-image-quality digital cameras that incorporate the Foveon X3 direct image sensor (generation name: "Quattro").
Building on the concept of the SIGMA SD1 Merrill, the SIGMA sd Quattro and SIGMA sd Quattro H feature a mirrorless structure and use interchangeable lenses. The two new cameras are as compact and lightweight as cameras in the SIGMA dp Quattro series and offer the same level of outstanding image quality. Featuring the SIGMA SA mount, the two new cameras are compatible with all of the SIGMA GLOBAL VISION lenses in the Contemporary, Art and Sports lines, and they are designed to take full advantage of these lenses' superb optical performance.
The SIGMA sd Quattro features an APS-C size sensor and offers medium-format image quality with 39 megapixels. The SIGMA sd Quattro H features an APS-H size sensor measuring 26.6 x 17.9mm. This new, larger Foveon sensor delivers high resolution of 51 megapixels, for even more detailed expressive power.
Leveraging the light absorption characteristics of silicon, the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor comprises three layers of photodiodes, each at a different depth within the silicon and each corresponding to a different RGB color. Since it is the only sensor to use this superior vertical color separation technology, it is also the world's only direct image sensor. Requiring no low-pass filter needed to correct the interference caused by a color filter array, the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor is able to take full advantage of the information carried by light, including color information. The sensor features a pixel ratio of 1:1:4 in the bottom, middle, and top layers and applies the brightness data captured by the top layer to the middle and bottom layers. This unique structure makes possible fast resolution and high-speed data processing.
Two sensor sizes availableOther cameras typically use a single-layer photo sensor covered by a Bayer filter mosaic, which comprises 50% green, 25% blue, and 25% red squares. In contrast, the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor uses no low-pass filter and is able to capture 100% of the data for blue, green, and red in each of its three layers. Due to this unique structure, the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor can generate up to twice the resolution data of sensors using a Bayer filter. The SIGMA sd Quattro has an APS-C-size sensor with 19.6 megapixels in its top layer, giving it an equivalent total of approximately 39 megapixels and the outstanding image quality expected of a medium format camera. The SIGMA sd Quattro H features a newly developed APS-H-size sensor (26.6 x 17.9mm) with 25.5 megapixels in its top layer for an equivalent total of approximately 51 megapixels. This larger sensor takes Foveon image quality to the next level, delivering more detailed images than ever before.
Dual TRUE III for high-speed processing of high-volume dataTRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) III is the dedicated image processing engine for the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. SIGMA's original algorithm processes data without loss of color detail or other image degeneration to deliver extremely detailed image expression with a noticeable 3D pop. In addition, by using two separate TRUE III engines, the camera is able to process data from the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor at extremely high speed.
New Super-Fine Detail exposure modeThe new Super-Fine Detail (SFD) exposure mode brings out the full performance of the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. One push of the shutter generates seven different exposures, creating RAW data in the X3I file format. Using this data with the SIGMA Photo Pro software package, the photographer can create noiseless images with an extensive dynamic range. With this new mode, the more detailed imaging potential of the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor is fully leveraged. From each X3I file, individual X3F files may also be generated. The value of SFD exposure mode is especially apparent in studio photography.
Note: To prevent camera shake, SIGMA recommends the use of a tripod.
Phase detection AF is superior for speed performance, while contract detection AF is superior for focusing accuracy. Combining these two methods in a single system delivers AF that is fast and precise at the same time. In addition, this approach to autofocus takes full advantage of the characteristics of high-performance lenses. The Single AF mode is optimal for everyday photography, while the Continuous AF mode is optimal for focusing on a moving object. In the latter mode, pressing the shutter button halfway causes autofocus to operate continuously, while Movement Prediction AF operates at the same time for more accurate autofocusing. A variety of other AF modes are also available. 9-Point Selection AF mode allows the user to select among nine focus frames. Free Movement AF mode allows the user to select the focus frame with high precision. Face Detection AF mode detects human faces and prioritizes focusing on them. The AF assist light incorporated in the camera body makes possi ble the use of AF even in low-light conditions.
Focus peaking functionThis function puts a colored outline (white, black, red, or yellow) around the subject in the viewfinder for instant confirmation of the person or object currently in focus.
High-resolution electronic viewfinderThe high-resolution 2.36 mega-pixel electronic viewfinder features near-100% viewfinder coverage and a 1.09 magnification ratio. The viewfinder incorporates three lenses with the outermost lens specially coated to ensure a clear field of view. Using a switch next to the viewfinder, the user can toggle between displaying the image in the viewfinder and the monitor. In AUTO mode, the camera automatically switches to the viewfinder display when the user is looking through it and to the monitor when he or she is not. This mode allows seamless use of the viewfinder to take photographs and use of the monitor to access settings and confirm results. For extra convenience, many functions of the monitor are available via the electronic viewfinder itself, such as setting values, grid lines, electronic level, zoom, focus peaking and more.
In addition to the 1.62 mega-pixel 3.0 inch TFT LCD main monitor, the rear of the camera features a sub-monitor that displays the number of remaining shots on the SD card, shutter speed, aperture value, ISO level, and more. This extra monitor makes it easy to watch the live view and confirm key information at the same time. A sheet of special material lies between the two LCDs and the protective glass that covers them. This sheet prevents air pockets from forming and minimizes reflections, ensuring excellent display visibility in sunlight.
Tough magnesium alloy bodyThe exterior and main frame of the camera body feature a tough magnesium alloy. The rigidity and strength of this alloy significantly contribute to the reliability and quality of the camera as a whole.
Dust- and splash-proof designO-rings and sealing material effectively seal buttons and seams to prevent the intrusion of dust and water, making the camera an excellent choice for pros working under tough conditions.
Dust protector on lens mountTo prevent the intrusion of dust and debris into the camera body, the lens mount features a dust protector sealed with optical glass. Additional sealing around the mount further lessens the chance of dust entering the camera body.
Intuitive user interface helps user focus attention on creative workBuilding on the success of previous SIGMA user interfaces, the new UI is more intuitive than ever. Located next to the shutter button, the Quick Set button provides instant access to the Quick Set Menu, which allows the user to quickly adjust commonly used settings while continuing to look through the viewfinder. Located on the top of the body, the LOCK switch prevents the accidental pressing of buttons, helping keep the user's attention on the creative work. The buttons that are locked with this switch may also be customized by the user. Located on the rear of the camera near the selector are several controls for commonly used functions. Easily accessed with the thumb of the right hand, they include the menu button, focus frame button, and AEL/AF button with lever.
Quick Set MenuLocated next to the shutter button, the Quick Set button provides instant access to eight commonly used functions, including aspect ratio, ISO, white balance, and color mode. The user can quickly adjust settings using the selector and front and rear dials. Users can also customize the functions included in the Quick Set Menu and the order in which they appear.
14-bit RAW dataRAW data records the light information captured by the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. Using 14-bit (16,384 gradations) signal processing to convert the analog output signal to digital results in photographic data with fine gradations that effectively represent the smooth, natural gradations of the original subject. RAW data uses lossless compression that prevents image degradation. Moreover, processing RAW data with SIGMA Photo Pro results in images with incomparable natural balance.
Continuous shooting of up to 14 images in RAW formatThe DDR III high-speed, high-volume memory is approximately twice the capacity of that of the SIGMA dp Quattro. This allows the SIGMA sd Quattro to capture up to 14 RAW images (X3F files) in High size during continuous shooting (SIGMA sd Quattro H: up to 10 images). Leveraging high-speed data transfer and processing, the SIGMA sd Quattro offers a continuous shooting speed of up to 3.6 frames per second (SIGMA sd Quattro H: up to 3.8 frames per second). As a further option, when Low size is used, the SIGMA sd Quattro offers a continuous shooting speed of up to 5.1 frames per second and continuous shooting of up to 28 images (SIGMA sd Quattro H: up to 20 images).
RAW onboard data processingThe camera can process RAW data (X3F files) into JPEGs without the need for a personal computer. The user can adjust the exposure correction, white balance, color mode, and aspect ratio while viewing the photographs on the LCD monitor.
High-resolution Super-High size imagesA variety of file sizes is available to accommodate a wide range of user needs. Using High-size files brings out the best performance from the image sensor, while using Low-size files increases the number of shots that can be stored in memory. In both of these file sizes, the camera can simultaneously create RAW and JPEG data. In addition, the camera can create JPEG files in S-HI size (SIGMA sd Quattro: 39 megapixels; SIGMA sd Quattro H: 51 megapixels), appropriate for large prints, as well as in S-LO size, which is ideal for online sharing.
To accommodate various photographic needs, six different aspect ratios are available, including 3:2 (standard), 1:1 (square), 21:9 (similar to cinema widescreen), and 7:6 (similar to 6x7 camera format). When using an aspect ratio other than 3:2, the user may select a black or semi-transparent frame. The semi-transparent frame can serve as a sportsfinder, allowing the user to monitor activity outside the frame. The aspect ratio of images recorded as RAW data can also be changed in SIGMA Photo Pro.
Exclusive SIGMA Photo Pro softwareSIGMA Photo Pro makes possible intuitive processing of RAW data, leveraging the full power of the information captured by the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. Operation is easy: the user simply adjusts horizontal sliders while viewing the photographs to create images that perfectly match his or her vision. In addition, the software turns X3I files created using the camera's Super-Fine Detail function into high-resolution, noiseless images with outstanding dynamic range. Various modes allow the user to take full advantage of the image sensor's fine tones and gradations and create monochrome images of impressive depth.
Higher-precision white balanceA new algorithm enhances the precision of auto white balance, even optimizing white balance in images with multiple light sources. The Auto (Lighting Source Priority) mode leaves the color of light sources intact for extra atmosphere, while the Auto (Default) mode allows the camera to automatically make white balance adjustments. In total, twelve white balance modes are available, including three custom modes. It is also possible to adjust white balance based on the specific image and to set the color temperature in Kelvin. Moreover, each white balance mode can be fine-tuned for detailed correction of white balance and creative filter effects.
Full range of Color ModesColor Modes can adjust color tones and contrast to best suit each photographic scene. The range of color modes includes Cinema, which reduces saturation and emphasizes shadows for a film-like effect; and Sunset Red, which emphasizes red for more impressive sunset shots. Color Modes make artistic expression easier than ever.
Monochrome optionsThe Filtering Effect allows contrast to be changed as if the images had been taken using a color filter for black and white photography. The Toning Effect allows warm, cold, sepia, and other color tones to be added to monochrome photos to emphasize the subject in creative ways. SIGMA Photo Pro makes possible optimal monochrome processing of RAW data without any color processing, producing high-resolution monochrome images with exceptional dynamic range and outstanding reproduction of the tones of highlights and shadows.
Custom bracketing displayThis function allows the user to take a single shot but save several versions of the photograph with customized white balance, Color Mode, and other settings. This function can be combined with auto bracketing to help increase the chance of getting the perfect shot.
Electronic levelAllowing the user to view the camera's horizontal and vertical position while shooting, this function is useful in precisely establishing composition.
System camera compatible with all SIGMA GLOBAL VISION lensesFeaturing the SIGMA SA mount, the new cameras are compatible with all of the SIGMA GLOBAL VISION lenses in the Contemporary, Art and Sports lines, and they are designed to take full advantage of these lenses' superior optical performance.
The cameras include the high-capacity BP-61 lithium-ion battery and BC-61 charger. The optional SAC-7 AC adapter allows the cameras to run AC power from a wall outlet.
SIGMA Capture Pro allows the user to control and capture photographs with the camera via a personal computer. After connecting the camera to the computer with a USB cable, the user can take photos and adjust the aperture value, shutter speed, and other settings. The photographs taken using the software may be downloaded to the camera's SD card, to the computer, or both at the same time. The software also allows the user to continuously shoot a set number of photographs. While connected to the computer, the camera may still be operated and used to take photographs manually.
Source: Sigma sd Quattro Mirrorless Camera Development
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