Sigma's DP1 with DSLR-sized sensor reviewed, raises bar

It's always worth noting when a reviewer says that a device, "sets a new standard for image quality in a compact camera." That's PopPhoto's conclusion after testing the Sigma DP1 with a DSLR-sized, FOVEON X3 CMOS sensor packing 14 megapixels. The image quality and color accuracy remained "stellar" right up to ISO 800 where other compacts shackled with tiny sensors begin to lose control of the noise. The biggest nits are with the sluggish 9-zone AF system, an unsophisticated flash, lack of image stabilization, and delays between shots. Fix those while whittling-back the $800 street price a bit and PopPhoto believes the DP1 could go mainstream.

[Via Photography Blog]

[(Unverified) Posted Apr 18th 2008 12:26PM]

Just bought one and actually find it to be an excellent camera. The picture quality is not like a compact camera, its far and away superior.

As for the speed it writes to raw, I tested it against the g9 and they were very similar but the DP1 gives you an almost instant shutter response on manual focus which for some reason the g9 doesn't.

Its also light, fits in an ordinary coat pocket and is an "unknown brand" as far as most nefarious types are concerned so its excellent for street shooting.

I showed mine to a friend who doesn't know the brand and his response was "ho hum not as cool looking as my new sony". Excellent.