Nikon Announces 24.5 Megapixel D3x
by Wesley Fink on December 1, 2008 12:00 PM EST- Posted in
- Digital Camera
NIKON UNVEILS A DIGITAL MASTERPIECE: THE D3X DIGITAL SLR
With Extreme 24.5-Megapixel Resolution, Processed Image Files Exceeding 138 MB, Five Frame-per-Second Burst Speed and Nikon Core Technologies, the D3X Ushers in a New Level of Image Quality
MELVILLE, N.Y. (Nov. 30, 2008) – Nikon Inc. today announced the D3X, an FX-format digital SLR featuring extreme 24.5-megapixel resolution and superb low-noise capabilities, which provides professional photographers with commercial-quality image performance in a familiar and extraordinarily versatile D-SLR form factor. In conjunction with the groundbreaking Nikon FX-format D3, the D3X tops off a collection of flagship level, rugged, professional caliber digital single lens reflex cameras engineered to excel in all types of professional photographic disciplines from photojournalism and sideline sports, to commercial in-studio applications.
The foundation of the enhanced performance of the D3X is its FX-format, 24.5-megapixel (6048 x 4032) CMOS sensor providing commercial, high fashion, fine art and landscape photographers with the extreme resolution, dynamic range, color depth, detail and sharpness that clients demand. Whether creating catalogs, magazine covers, billboards or gallery prints, the large 5.49-micron pixel size and high signal to noise ratio produces vibrant images with breathtaking image fidelity while reducing lost highlights and shadows, and ensuring smoother tone reproduction with minimized noise. With full resolution shooting speeds of up to five frames-per-second (fps), and 14-bit files, that when processed are approximately 138 MB, the D3X offers today's photographic artists an extreme level of performance and versatility ready for demanding assignments in the studio or on location.
“In 2007, the 12.1-megapixel FX-format D3 delivered groundbreaking digital SLR image quality, coupled with incomparable high ISO, low noise performance and high-speed handling. In doing so, the D3 broke photographic barriers, enabling photographers to work in ways never before possible,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “Now, the new 24.5-megapixel FX-format D3X D-SLR provides the extreme resolution and high dynamic range capabilities needed to meet the extraordinary needs of photographic disciplines such as high fashion, commercial advertising and fine art. The D3X delivers this remarkable capability while fitting seamlessly within the Nikon system, taking full advantage of Nikon’s world-renowned collection of NIKKOR lenses and Speedlights.”
Image Quality Takes Center Stage
To re-emphasize the importance of image quality above all else, the D3X delivers an incredible level of digital SLR performance to provide photographers with extremely high resolution, exceptional dynamic range, phenomenal total gradation and outstanding color reproduction. Image files can be recorded as TIFF, JPEG or NEF (RAW) formats in either 12- or 14-bit compressed or uncompressed formats, and recorded to UDMA compatible CompactFlash™ cards for optimum speed. Photographers can save image files directly to the dual card slots as overflow, backup, or as separate file formats to different cards. Building on the D3X's flexibility, users have the creative option to shoot in the 5:4 crop mode with 20.4-megapixel resolution, the ideal format for creating 8 x 10-inch portraits. While using DX-format lenses, faster continuous shooting of up to seven frames per second can be achieved at a resolution of 10.5 megapixels.
The exceptionally low noise of the D3X is essential to any professional commercial application, and it provides photographers with an ISO range of 100 to 1600, expandable to 50 (Lo-1) and 6400 (Hi-2). The ultra smooth tones and lack of grain at ISO 1600 as well as at low sensitivity settings result in smooth, natural skin tones and exacting detail that, before the D3X, required larger and far costlier studio-bound camera systems.
Advanced Technologies, Meticulously Executed
In a commercial setting or on location, imaging professionals need high performance in both speed and processing. The Nikon D3X can shoot at up to five fps at full resolution or up to seven fps in DX crop mode, allowing photographers to catch the split-second difference in a model’s expression or capture all of the action in a sequence. Just like the D3, the D3X achieves a start-up time of a mere 0.12 seconds and a shutter release time lag of 0.04 seconds.
The D3X’s speed, as well as high levels of performance, leverages Nikon core technologies including a newly enhanced EXPEED™ Image Processing System, specially designed for the D3X to provide superior image quality, faster processing speeds and lower power consumption. This advanced system is able to achieve extremely precise color reproduction for a broad spectrum of hues, in addition to vivid saturation and smooth gradation. What’s more, Nikon’s advanced noise processing function is engineered to minimize noise at all sensitivities and operate seamlessly without interfering with other image color parameters.
The D3X also features Nikon’s exclusive Scene Recognition System, which continuously analyzes information from the 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor, to further refine auto exposure, auto white balance and autofocus calculations. This results in flattering portraits and awe-inspiring landscapes that portray accurate color and fine details. Nikon's exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering II helps ensure accurate exposures, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. Instantly evaluating each scene before capture, input data from the system's sensor is automatically referenced against an internal database of more than 30,000 images derived from actual photographs to calculate correct exposure values. Active D-Lighting, used in combination with 3D Matrix Metering II, helps to determines proper exposure, and creates realistic contrast while compensating for lost shadows and highlights. Prior to shooting, users can choose from Extra High, High, Normal, Low or Off settings, as well as an Auto mode.
Additionally, the D3X features Nikon’s exclusive Multi-CAM 3500FX focus module, with 51 AF points, 15 cross type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors that easily track and lock onto moving subjects, delivering the same fast and accurate AF performance that helped make the D3 immediately successful. Users can select any of the AF points, making it easy to consistently attain accurate focus right on a subject’s eyes, frame after frame. Additionally, three AF-area modes – Single point, Dynamic-area AF and Auto-area AF – are available to maximize the use of the 51 focus points by selecting the most suitable one to match subject conditions. AF is also available in one of two Live View modes optimized for the studio, including a phase detection handheld mode and a tripod mode. This feature allows the user to zoom in up to 27x on the LCD screen to ensure critical focus. While in Live View, the graphic indication of a virtual horizon is also available, making it easier than ever to confirm camera orientation.
To further ensure each photographer's ability to balance their personal style, Nikon’s Picture Control System enables users to adjust their images to pre-set parameters such as Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome that apply tweaks to image sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, overall tone and saturation. Photographers have creative control over these image parameters with the use of up to nine available customizable presets.
Synchronizing Both Form and Function
Engineered for real-world functionality, the D3X retains a rugged shell with moisture, dust and shock resistance that has become a hallmark of flagship Nikon D-SLRs, while preserving the usability and ergonomics that allow the camera to remain an extension of the photographer’s vision. Attention to detail goes so far as to include a self-diagnostic shutter system that is tested to exceed 300,000 cycles for maximum durability and longevity. The camera’s body also maintains the resilient magnesium alloy construction and form factor of the D3, promoting consistent Nikon system synergy.
A bright and accurate viewfinder offers 100 percent coverage with 0.7x magnification. The body also houses Nikon’s acclaimed 3.0-inch super density LCD screen, now relied upon by so many photographers. The high-resolution 920,000-dot screen is viewable at wide angles up to 170 degrees, and will allow photographers to quickly zoom in to confirm critical focus. Users can also output the video signal to an external display via HDMI to allow client viewing. Thanks to incredibly efficient internal circuitry, the D3X can capture up to 4400* shots per single charge of the camera’s Lithium ion battery.
System Strength Withstands the Test of Time
The D3X is fully compatible with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS) to give photographers a mobile lighting solution that is easy to manage. To further enhance mobility, the D3X is compatible with Nikon’s GP-1 GPS receiver to gather information such as latitude, longitude, altitude and date of shooting. Photographers can easily shoot tethered via USB, or use the WT-4a wireless transmitter to send images wirelessly when speed and mobility are essential. D3X users will also enjoy the system strength of more than 50 genuine NIKKOR lenses that provide outstanding sharpness and high resolution across a broad range of focal lengths.
Price and Availability
The Nikon D3X will be available at Nikon Authorized Professional Dealers starting December 2008, and will be available for an estimated selling price of $7999.95.
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d33pblue - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
Thats not exactly how things work.There is a very sharp divide, both in price and in operational philosophy, between the "compromise" prosumer DSLRs and the "no compromise" top tier professional DSLRs.
Its difficult to pick up from glancing at a spec sheet, but in actual usage, these cameras are vastly different. For working professionals who demand the performance and durability that the professional body provides, the prosumer bodies really aren't an option - period. However for the shooters who demand image quality but don't really need the speed or ruggedness, the prosumer bodies work well.
Although they have similar resolutions, they are not direct competitors to one another. As for the A900, sure you could buy that and a couple of lenses for the price of a D3x, but you could also buy a 5DII and a couple lenses for the price of a D3x as well. The only question to ask yourself there is which would you rather be saddled with - Sony's lens lineup or Canon's lens lineup.
Because of that the D3x vs A900 comparison is fun for trivia purposes, but of little interest otherwise. Its like calling a $40,000 Corvette a rival to a $200,000 Ferrari just because they have the same horsepower. In reality, people considering $40k Corvettes arent even thinking about $200k Ferraris - and vice versa.
As for the sensors, they are similar, but the Nikon has been heavily tweaked. The resolution is the roughly same, but the pixel pitch is slightly different. In addition, the Nikon has gapless microlenses and a lower base ISO than the Sony (ISO 100 vs ISO 200 for the Sony). Every indication hints that the sensor in the Nikon will be superior for the market Nikon is targeting. Those who need to shoot at uber high ISO can still pick up a D3 or D700 (or 5DII for that matter).
Now, with all of that said, even though the list price of the D3x is $8000, I fully expect the street price to settle in at roughly $6500. This is the street price of its main competitor - the Canon 1Ds III.
melgross - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
As far as being "saddled " with Canon's lens lineup compared to Nikon's, I think that is a disingenuous question.While Some of Nikon's lenses are better than some of Canon's, it's true the other way around as well. Nikons nasty 70 to 200 comes to mind immediately.
And, if course, there are hardly any modern Sony lenses at all. The Zeiss lenses, while mostly pretty good, are hardly "professional" as none of them are weather proofed in any way. You must buy an adapter to even get lens mount to camera mount sealing.
What good is it for the camera to have a pretty good weather proofing when its the lenses that stick out in the rain and dust?
The pixel pitch is EXACTLY the same. It's been shown that the 4 and the 9 have been transposed in error.
As the D3 sales are poor, according to Thom who usually knows these things, it's even selling BELOW dealer cost at a number of places. Not too good.
So, it's possible that the camera will sell for less than list, simply because it won't sell well at all. The Canon 1Ds mkIII has had a street price of about $7,300. Though with the advent of the new 5D mkII, and the fact that the 1Ds mkIII is expected to be replaced by March, it's not surprising for the price to begin dropping from that.
But, the D3x won't appear until December 25th. If the price dropes by $1,500 at the start, that's bad news indeed!
This is hardly a breakthrough camera.
While the lack if the now becoming required video is acceptable, I suppose, the lack of sensor cleaning is a real questionmark.
Heidfirst - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
The sensor in the Nikon is certainly a variant rather than identical to the A900's, the pixel pitch is the same however.& no doubt Nikon's image processing (certainly their jpeg engine) will be better for the moment (don't rule out firmware improvements for the A900).
& for the market that this is intended for Sony's lens line up is more than OK just now & only going to get better.
strikeback03 - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
Also is reasonably likely that this sensor will show up in a relative of the D700 in 6-8 months, after they have made good money on the D3x.Did they really use gapless microlenses? Be interesting to see what they did about the corners, as this would not allow for offset microlenses.
mcnabney - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
But Pros don't really do that.If you have all kinds of amazing Nikon glass why would you want to torture yourself by buying a really nice new body that you can't use with your best lenses? For Pros it is a business and you know you just have to pony-up the extra bucks for the business.
Even for the young professional that is just starting. Would you really want to buy into a standard that does not have the depth of product and support that CaNikon offer? I actually bought a Pentax K10D two years ago based upon your advice Wes. It has been a great camera, but there isn't much to grow on. I can work with what I have, but the best lenses are just not available in non-CaNikon fomrats. Equipment in the computer world is relatively interchangeable and heavily based upon price/performance for discrete tasks, but photography is far more about choosing a system. That should always be mentioned up-front.
haplo602 - Tuesday, December 2, 2008 - link
Well I think the K10D is a fine camera for what it does and the Pentax lense selection too. You did not however pay think all the details through.I do not agree with Wesley mostly, but except the 4/3 Olympus obsession, I can generaly live with his recommendations. You have to keep in mind that AT has a specific reader base where the high pro photo category is mostly absent. Maybe some wealthy amateurs with more money than brains (if they have money to buy 3SLI setups and such :-)). The prople are mostly picky about quality and price/performance ratio, but photography is not the main or even long term interest.
As for the D3x, well was about time. The FX/DX SLR market is slowly approaching physical limits on sensor density and body construction does not progress since film era much (compare F5/F6 with D3/D3x). So there is nothing much to build on except brand loyalty and system options.
Lord 666 - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
If you bought a camera on Wes's advice, then I have a bridge to sell you.I'll also share you the secret of a great wealth to be claimed, but first I need money to secure it. Please wire me money and we will share the fortune 60/40.
Hope this reaches you in good health...
mcnabney - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
The advice Wes gave was not bad, rather it was incomplete. I read other reviews that were favorable to the K10D and I also still own two film SLRs from Pentax. I thought I might still be able to make some use of older equipment. I was wrong. I also underestimate the upgrade path.I think it would be best to review WoW for the Max and recommend the Apple platform for someone who enjoys games. Yes, a Mac will play WoW just fine, but the options for gaming on a Mac are somewhat limited. This is the same situation for cameras.
Lord 666 - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
Check out www.kenrockwell.com or www.dpreview.com.However, Ken does tend to be fickle towards flavor of the month. Perfect examples; the D700 and D90. Prior to working with them, he downplayed both bodies. After using them, he proclaimed they were the best things Nikon has ever put out.
Poor D300, it used to be Ken's favorite amatuer camera. Now I bet it sits on the shelf unloved.
shinpickle - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
I love ripping on Wesley too.. I'll addHis know-it-all attitude, combined with his inability to do thorough and cited research, combined with anandtech's lack of testing capability, make for some pretty worthless conclusions.
Wes, thanks for your opinion on a press release! that's front page news.. the guy is an amateur, but that would be okay if he wasn't also an arrogant, defensive jerk. i think the hostility in his article comments are simply the result of most readers not respecting him.