Nikon D60 unveiled

For those of us who could never understand why Nikon called the upgrade to its entry-level D40 the D40x, the company has rectified the situation this evening with the announcement of the Nikon D60 DSLR.

Presumably the D40x's long-speculated replacement, the new D60 shares key specs with the previous model, including its 10.2 megapixel CCD. Built around the diminutive D40/D40x form factor, the D60 sports a 2.5-inch LCD with an eye-control feature that automatically shuts off the display for improved visibility when the shooter is using the optical viewfinder.

Active D-Lighting, allowing the dynamic range enhancing effects of Nikon's D-Lighting processing to be applied while shooting, appears on the D60. As on it's higher-end models, the new step-up DSLR also employs Nikon's advance 3-D Color Matrix Metering II. As with Nikon's compact offerings, the EXPEED processing concept promises images that are vibrant and rich with less visible noise.

The D60 comes in kit form with Nikon's new AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G Vibration Reduction lens, providing optical image stabilization by default.

With all the rumors about slowing D40x flying around, there were high hopes for Nikon's new enthusiast-level DSLR release. Sadly, it seems like rumors of live view, in particular, were not to be, and while the D40x is an excellent camera, given how much this model seems to carry over, it may not be the big announcement many were hoping for.

Nikon has slated the D60 for shipment in February. No official word yet on pricing.

Nikon D60 specifications: