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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Wesley Fink - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
Fortunately we are not saddled with the desperate defenses I have seen on other photo Forums dissecting the D3x and arguing that the D300/A700 and the D3x/A900 can't possibly be the same sensors as Nikon would never do that.There is no doubt the A900 is MUCH better built than any of you are allowing. It is also a fact that the A900 100% viewfinder is better than anything from Canon OR Nikon. But don't take my word for it. Wait until Phil or Ken or Thom or Dave say the same thing and then it will be real.
I'm really a little surprised at how upset some Nikon users have become just because I stated the obvious. I have said several times recently that I believed the $8000 camera was dead - killed by Sony and Canon themselves. For Nikon to then launch a Sony-sensor 24.5 MP version of the D3 is a
true surprise pricing move.
melgross - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
Wes, Thom is already ripping into this camera, the price, and the question of who might be interested in buying it.Nikon claims that the sensor is "unique", and is theirs. But how true is that, really? The belief, not only for Thom, but others in the industry, is that this is basically a Sony sensor, possibly with Nikon designed lenses, color filter and low cut filter module.
Here, please read this from Thom, and then comment on it:
http://www.bythom.com/nikond3xcomments.htm">http://www.bythom.com/nikond3xcomments.htm
boogle - Tuesday, December 2, 2008 - link
I think Wes has a distain for Nikon in general. In comments he tends to read things that aren't really there, and goes on an anti-Nikon supporter / Nikon itself campaign. I'm aware that he recommended the Nikon D90, but I can just imagine him being in the office seething about it (or uses it to say 'hey I recommended a Nikon body, I can't be biased!'). If you say something positive about another manufacturer he'll let it go - say something positive about Nikon and he'll jump on you for being a Nikon fanboy. Not sure why. I can appreciate an amateur being biased, since often its the bells and whistles that matter more than the end result (photo), but a pro journalist should be detatched and try to avoid internal biases; rising above the rabble like us moaning about things :pHowever, I still think Sony in the long-run could provide stiff competition if they keep up their efforts. They definitely need more quality lenses, just rebranding Tamron lenses won't cut it for anything but budget users.
strikeback03 - Tuesday, December 2, 2008 - link
Camera brand choice is one of those "holy war" topics where everyone accuses every author of bias all the time. Phil and Simon over at DPR are regularly accused of bias. Ken Rockwell has always been considered Nikon-biased (probably true) and Michael Reichmann is generally thought of as a Canon fanboi, even though last I knew he was using both Canon and Nikon systems extensively and was very happy with the D3.Personally I think Wes gives too much credit to the G1 (only thing I'd consider possibly revolutionary is the fast contrast-detect AF); but as I am clearly not the target market of the camera and have not actually used one I won't go around the forums proclaiming that it sucks.
boogle - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
Definitely. Considering that Sony now seem to be separating out their consumer / pro bodies so that the pro bodies work how a pro expects, and consumer bodies do more hand-hondling for the consumer. Basically if Sony can put enough effort into the bodies themselves (i.e image quality, processing time) to come close to Nikon - competition will heat up fast. Of course this relies on more CZ lenses coming out, Nikon and Canon have far more lenses across a wide range of focal lengths and max apertures. Nikon could be in for a tough time. Pentax & Samsung have teamed up on their sensors, Canon make their own, this leaves Nikon as the only major player without easy manufacturing of sensors. Of course I could be wrong and Nikon & Sony work closely on their sensors too - but I doubt it. Then again who's to say Nikon can't just design in-house and get a 3rd party fab (like Sony with the D3/D700 sensor) to manufacture it.Of course you could argue that the D3x is built to a much greater standard than the A900. Does it really warrant the extra cost?
Heidfirst - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
Sony don't (yet) have any officially Pro bodies.There is a fair amount of evidence that they are getting ready to launch a Pro support programme though.
Wesley Fink - Monday, December 1, 2008 - link
"The larger question will be how image quality of the A900 and D3x will compare." Obviously the comparison would be the A900 to the D3x.