Sigma DP2, SD15 out in the open

Sigma showed off a pair of forthcoming models on the show floor at Photokina today, highlighting improvements and upgrades in their two series of cameras.

Two new models – the SIGMA DP2 and SD15 – build heavily on Sigma's previous imaging efforts, providing a second series model in the case of the DP2, and an upgrade to Sigma's existing DSLR in the case of the SD15.

Sigma "normalizes" DP camera with 41mm lens
On the compact camera side, the SIGMA DP2 is the latest camera from the manufacturer to use the sensor from a DSLR (in this case, the SD14/SD15's 14.1 megapixel Foveon X3) in a fixed-lens compact.

Built constructed around the same body used for the DP1, the DP2 replaces the original model's wide-angle optic with a normal perspective 41mm f/2.8 lens that also gains a stop of speed when compared to the DP1's f/4 glass.

For DP1 critics, the biggest news from this announcement is almost certainly the DP2's inclusion of a new imaging engine: TRUE II. The suggested benefits – better JPEG processing and faster operational speed – may make the new model more appealing all around assuming they actually come to pass.

In addition to sharing most of its components (including its screen and pop-up flash unit) with the DP1, the DP2 will apparently share space in Sigma's lineup with the current model: in discussing the new camera, Sigma booth reps emphasized that the DP2 is not a replacement for the former version, but rather, a concurrent model with slightly different features.

New SD model with improved processing, LCD
Two years after its last entry into the DSLR business, Sigma is showing off the future of the brand's system cameras today with the official announcement of the Sigma SD15.

Successor to the SD14 and the fourth DSLR from the manufacturer, the SD15 utilizes the same controversial 14 megapixel Foveon X3 sensor called up for the last Sigma model. As with the DP2, the primary image pipeline upgrade appears to be the addition of Sigma's TRUE II imaging engine in this case, promising faster camera operation and smoother, richer images.

The SD15 also sports a 3.0 inch LCD – a nice upgrade compared to the previous model. Otherwise, the SD15's physical construction looks similar to the SD14's setup.

Presumably, other specs (including the SD14's rather dated 5-point AF and 3 fps continuous shooting) will also remain the same, but it's hard to say for sure until a full launch is made.

Specs, Pricing, and Availability
On that note, Sigma's press release and booth information about both the DP2 and SD15 are more "concept announcements" than "product launches" at this point, providing few specifics beyond the basics for the SD15, especially.

Likewise, pricing and availability for both models has yet to be disclosed.