Longer lens and faster image processor enhance Sigma's new DP2
Externally, the Sigma DP2's front only has a slightly different looking lens configuration to differentiate it from the original DP1
The Sigma DP1 has been a bit of an enigma. It's gestation was long and involved a radical redesign from the original prototype that was shown some two years ago. Reviewers liked the image quality from its DSLR-sized Foveon X3 sensor and 28mm (equivalent) prime lens, but the camera was frustrating to use because of slow in-camera image processing. The DP2 announced at Photokina 2008 goes some way to address these issues.
Like its sibling, the Sigma SD15 DSLR - also announced at Photokina, the DP2 gets a new and faster image processor, called True II. 'TRUE' is an acronym for 'Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine'. while the SD15 also gets an upgrade from a 2.5 inch LCD to a 3 inch one, the 2.5 inch screen on the DP2 is unchanged. There are no changes to the 14MP (equivalent) Foveon X3 sensor.
A new Quick Select (QS) button is one of the very few changes to the outside of the DP2
A significant change is the 24.2mm f/2.8 lens, which is equivalent to a 41mm f.2.8 lens in 135 format terms. This is a fair bit longer than the 28mm equivalent wide angle optic of the DP1, suggesting that there was some feedback to suggest that 28mm was too wide for some prospective customers. The new lens is of a sophisticated design, incorporating a pair of moulded aspheric elements.
There is no word that there will be a revised DP1 incorporating the new True II image processor, though it would seem a likely and logical move. Pricing and availability of the DP2 were not decided on at the time of writing.
